Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2022
Abstract
Indigenous people have experienced and continue to encounter disproportionate levels of poor health on average compared to non-Indigenous people. This reality results from many social determinants, including systematic discrimination, inter-generational trauma, income, education levels, and housing conditions. Financial investments and social change are crucial to reducing these inequities. However, it is essential to recognize that Indigenous people and communities have never been, nor do they remain passive, when it comes to supporting Indigenous health and well-being. In this research, to support health equity for Indigenous people, rich and diverse traditional healing practices that are influential in promoting health, healing, and overall well-being at the individual level and within Indigenous communities are explored. Indigenous belief systems' healing traditions can include health practices, approaches, knowledge, and beliefs. Understanding Indigenous concepts of health and healing can propose ways of moving forward for health equity in the Canadian health system that incorporates Indigenous values and beliefs.