This year, I have been studying level 2, Te Reo Māori through Te Wāngaga o Aotearoa.  It comes 30 years after I sat School Certificate Te Reo Māori through Rangiora High School.  When my kids started coming home with better pronunciation and knowledge of the language than I had, I realised I had to Patua te taniwha - beat the monster - steer down the scary and go back to school, and it’s great.

What I now know is that learning plays a significant role in enhancing our overall well-being.  Seeking out new knowledge can have numerous positive effects on our mental, emotional, and even physical health. 

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Here's how learning can contribute to our well-being:

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Mental Stimulation: Learning challenges our brains and keeps them active. Engaging in new topics, skills, or activities stimulates neural pathways, promoting good mental health and potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline as we age.

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Increased Confidence: As you acquire new knowledge and skills, your self-confidence grows. This newfound confidence can spill over into other areas of your life, boosting your overall self-esteem and well-being.  It feels great to grow new skills and to greet my workmates every morning in Te Reo Māori.

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Sense of Accomplishment: Learning something new provides a sense of achievement - no matter how small the steps.  Whether it's completing an online course, learning a language in my case or mastering a musical instrument, these accomplishments contribute to your overall sense of well-being and satisfaction.

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Expanding Perspectives: Learning exposes you to diverse viewpoints, cultures, and ideas. This broadens your understanding of the world around yoru, fosters empathy, and encourages open-mindedness, all of which contribute positively to your mental and emotional health.

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Mindfulness and Flow: Engaging in learning activities can lead to a state of "flow," where you're fully immersed and engaged in the task at hand. This mindful state can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being too.

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Social Connections: Learning often involves interacting with others who share similar interests. This creates opportunities for social connections, building a sense of community and belonging that supports your emotional well-being.

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Adaptability: Learning helps you adapt to new situations and challenges more effectively. This adaptability increases your resilience and ability to navigate life's uncertainties, ultimately contributing to your mental and emotional well-being.

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Personal Growth: Learning is a pathway to personal growth and self-discovery. As you explore new subjects and skills, you might uncover hidden passions or strengths, leading to a deeper understanding of yourself and a greater sense of purpose.

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Longevity: Engaging in lifelong learning has been linked to increased longevity. The mental stimulation and social engagement associated with learning contribute to overall health and well-being as you age.

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Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu: Adorn the bird with feathers so it may soar. 

This whakatauki tells us, it’s never too late to learn a new skill, to try new things whether that’s formal education, exploring new hobbies, or simply reading about topics that interest you.  The act of learning and embracing a mindset of curiosity can positively impact various aspects of your well-being and lead to a more fulfilling and enriched life.

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