Abstract Reality
The following study by Timothy C. Jenks, Ph.D., used qualitative research methods, in which the investigator collected data via a survey, to determine the awareness and acceptance of certain Native American healing and wellness concepts. Additionally, the study sought to determine openness to contemporary adaptations and applications of these philosophies, as presented in modern–day educational and wellness programs.
Janice E. Martin, Ed.D., ND, LPC/S
Research Coordinator
Lessons on Wellness and Healing from the Native Americans of the Great Lakes: Applications to Modern Native and Non-Native Populations
Taken in its full context, the original system of wellness and healing espoused by the Anishinaabe and other Native American communities can offer benefits to those who share these lands today. Unfortunately, the foundations of this system — particularly the spirituality and worldview — have not received wide circulation, and when presented, seem esoteric and archaic.
One cannot describe a single “Native American system” isolated from the influence of European contact. This study examines philosophical foundations of Anishinaabe teachings and other sources to identify central spiritual and philosophical components that provide the foundations of wellness and healing. These include: an emphasis on close personal relationships, a broadly spiritual world perspective, the use of ritual and ceremony to build and reinforce connections to community and the environment, an inclusive approach to modalities of wellness and healing, and a focus on bimaadiziwin — the good life — as the foundational concept of daily living.
The author distributed a survey using a snowball sampling technique, and received 314 responses, primarily through an Internet web site. The results of the survey indicate broad acceptance of the core concepts and suggest a general willingness to respond favorably to educational and wellness programs founded on these principles.
The author intends this study to provide a basis for an approach to wellness and healing that a consulting practitioner could effectively apply with clients. With an understanding of related traditional Judaic and Christian concepts, and insights into how people currently relate to these ideas, a practitioner can tailor an integrated system of wellness and healing for a client, incorporating the important elements of spirituality and wholeness, and borrowing freely from appropriate remedies and modalities of other cultures.
Among his many professional activities, Timothy C. Jenks has a background in systems analysis, and operated his own software development company, with over 20 years in information technology management. Tim has additional studies in law and economics, as well as theology, research and writing. In his community he has held appointed and elected positions in local government; served as musician and clergy; and worked as a professor and advisor for over 25 years. Pursuing a lifelong interest in health, wellness, nutrition, meditation, spirituality, and energy healing, Tim recently completed his Ph.D. in Natural Health at Clayton College. Currently on the Graduate Faculty of Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he presents seminars and workshops, and provides personal consultations to promote health and wellness through Anargyr Healing, a nonprofit organization that he founded and directs.
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