Hinengaro Connection
This page explores simple and supportive ways to care for your mental and emotional wellbeing,
whether you're feeling strong, struggling, or somewhere in between.
Why Hinengaro Connection Matters
Hinengaro speaks to the inner world — our thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and mental health.
When this part of us feels strong, we can better manage stress,
make decisions, connect with others, and feel more in tune with ourselves.
Life can feel heavy sometimes.
Anxiety, sadness, overwhelm, or burnout can affect anyone —
and you don't need to go through it alone.
Connecting with your hinengaro means checking in with how you’re really feeling,
learning tools that support you, and reaching out for help when needed.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental wellness.
What matters is finding what works for you — and knowing that support is always within reach.
Hinengaro Connection
Suggestions
-
Take a few moments each day to pause and ask yourself: How am I really feeling right now? Naming your emotions, even just to yourself, can help you understand what you need and bring more awareness to your internal world
-
When emotions feel intense or overwhelming, grounding techniques can help calm your body and mind. Try the 5-4-3-2-1 method (name 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, etc.), deep breathing, or even walking barefoot on the grass.
-
Opening up to a friend, whānau member, mentor, or mental health professional can provide perspective, release, and connection. You don’t need to have the right words — just being heard can make a huge difference.
-
There are free, easy-to-use apps that can help you track your mood, practice mindfulness, or learn skills to manage stress and anxiety. Apps like Clearhead or Just a Thought are created with Aotearoa’s needs in mind.
-
Writing your thoughts and feelings down can help you process what's going on inside. You can write freely, answer prompts, or simply jot down a few words. Journaling is a safe space to explore without judgment.
-
If your inner critic is loud, try to notice it and gently reframe the thought. Ask yourself: Is this true? Is it kind? Is there another way to see it? Over time, this practice builds self-awareness and self-compassion.
-
Write down what supports you when things feel hard — like a playlist, a person to call, a breathing exercise, or a quiet place. Having a plan in place can help you feel more in control when you're struggling.
-
Understanding how the brain and emotions work can make it easier to recognise patterns and respond with care. Read, listen to podcasts, or watch videos that make mental health easier to understand and talk about.
-
Reaching out isn’t a weakness — it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. Whether it’s a helpline, school counsellor, GP, or therapist, support is available and you deserve to access.
-
Mental and emotional wellness need space to breathe. Set boundaries around what drains you, get enough sleep, limit screen time when you can, and allow yourself to rest — without guilt.
Possible Resources
Explore the suggested resources below — or click the button to discover more Hinengaro Connection supports. You can add any resource to your personalised wellness toolkit as you go.
