Paper short abstract:

This study sought to co-identify a land-based healing framework. A convenience sample of 20 United Houma Nation women participated and completed semi-structured interviews. Results indicated several themes and that land-based healing holds high potential among Indigenous groups

Paper long abstract:

Background: Settler colonialism has severely disrupted Indigenous ancestral ways of healing and being, contributing to an onslaught of health disparities. In particular, the United Houma Nation (UHN) has faced land loss and trauma, dispossession, and marginalization. Given the paucity of research addressing health for Indigenous individuals, this study sought to co-identify a UHN health framework by co-developing a community land-based healing. (2) Methods: This pilot study tested the feasibility of a land-based healing pilot study among 20 UHN women, drawing from a health promotion leadership approach and using semi-structured interviews. (3) Results: The qualitative findings indicated that RTOR was a feasible pilot project and yielded a UHN land-based health framework The initial themes were (1.) place, (2.) environmental/land trauma, (3.) ancestors, (4.) spirituality/mindfulness, (5.) cultural continuity, and (6.) environment and health. The reconnection to land was deemed feasible and seen as central to renewing relationships with ancestors (aihalia asanochi taha), others, and body. This mindful, re-engagement with the land contributed to subthemes of developing stronger tribal identities, recreating ceremonies, and increased cultural continuity, and transforming narratives of trauma into hope and resilience. (4) Conclusions: Overall, this study found that land can serve as a feasible therapeutic site for healing through reconnecting UHN tribal citizens and holds promise for other Indigenous groups