The Māra as Medicine: Faren Taylor's Journey to Healing

In this episode of The Māra Sessions, Faren Taylor shares her powerful true story a journey from despair to abundance, found through reconnecting with Papatūānuku.

Faren opens up about the moment the māra became more than a garden it became medicine. As Kai Oranga tutor she's spent her life helping others find that same healing, one seed at a time.

She also shares how she weaves maramataka into her māra practice, how she's adapting to our ever-changing climate, and leaves us with a practical tip on the best way to start growing this season.

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In this heartfelt episode, Rawinia Leatherby shares her lifelong connection to growing kai, supporting her community, and reviving traditional practices in modern contexts. Discover her stories of whanau resilience, re-engaging with tūpuna practices, and fostering food sovereignty across her iwi and wider community.

·       Rawinia's early memories of kai growing and traditional kai gathering practices on coastal Taranaki

·       Innovative programs like Tatai Tangata ki Te Whenua and Te aka tuwhenua

·       The role of maramataka in everyday work life

·       Stories of intergenerational learning, weaving harakeke nets, and fishing traditions

·       Rawinia’s insights on kai resilience, sovereignty, and collective action across iwi

This podcast has been brought to you by Te Rau o Rongo Charitable Trust with host Pounamu Skelton

www.terauorongo.org

Acknowledgements to NPDC for the sponsorship