Understanding Kamlamunikk (Heart): A Journey Home

Abstract

Thump Thump. Swoosh, swoosh. Kamlamunikk. Heart. Mi’kmaq teachings of heart are tied to concepts such as moontime, spirits, ancestors and blood knowledge. Being a Mi’kmaq woman from the west coast of Newfoundland with strong lifelong community connection I was aware that the understanding of heart was multifaceted. Since Indigenous women experience heart illness at a higher rate than non-Indigenous women and Indigenous men, I engaged with community members in discussions about some potential research in this area. Alongside community members it was determined that the research purpose was to explore and discuss what “heart” means to Mi’kmaw women from the west coast of Newfoundland. The goal was to move past Western language that predominantly understands heart as a vital organ that moves blood within a body. The research was grounded in a Mi’kmaq worldview and aligns with a community based participatory research approach. Four women were invited into the research, all which held strong community relations. The methods were fluid, and included talking circles, conversations, and sharing of images and artefacts. The women chose to meet individually at first and towards the end of the research engaged as a group. As a researcher and community member, I journeyed alongside the women, ultimately becoming a co-inquirer. This journey allowed the stories connected to heart to come to the forefront, as well as it allowed for research process to unfold that contributed to the well-being of Mik’maw women. Overall, heart is connected to trauma, love, culture, medicines, teachings, ancestors, and much more. Mi’kmaw women know what they need to sustain and foster their heart health. Nursing has the potential to shift its direction and help Mi’kmaw women live, instead of simply staying alive. Looking towards the next 7 generations, findings from this research can help health care providers to assist Mi’kmaw women to achieve better heart health outcomes.