Physical Activity
In many Indigenous communities, movement honors the cycles and rhythms of the natural world which are deeply connected to our bodies. Physical activity is a critical component of everyday life. It plays an important role in preventing and managing chronic health conditions and can help reduce health disparities by promoting overall health and well-being.
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Cultural Narrative
One community member described how running became an important part of her response after being diagnosed with prediabetes. Recognizing her family’s history of diabetes, she turned to nature and physical activity to help prevent the progression from prediabetes to diabetes.
Another participant shared childhood teachings that emphasized the importance of movement, discipline, and beginning the day with intention. They recalled being taught to wake up before sunrise, explaining that their father believed sleeping late allowed negative influences, such as laziness, procrastination, disorganization, and rejection to take hold. If they did not wake up on time, they were instructed to get up and shake out their blanket as a form of physical activity. Before school, their father also encouraged them to run after the bus, reinforcing the value of movement as part of daily life.