Spread of Makoyoh'sokoi (Wolf Trail): a community led, physical activity-based, holistic wellness program for Indigenous women in Canada.

Publisher: BioMedCentral Country of Publication: Bangladesh NLM ID: 100959228 Publication Model: Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 2072-1315 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 16060997 NLM ISO Abbreviation: J Health Popul Nutr Subsets: MEDLINE

Publication: May 2015- : London: BioMedCentral
Original Publication: Dhaka, Bangladesh : ICDDR,B: Centre for Health and Population Research, c2000-

Exercise* ; Health Promotion*; Female ; Humans ; Canada ; Chronic Disease

Globally, Indigenous populations have been impacted by colonization. Populations who have endured colonization are at higher risk of developing chronic diseases. Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission emphasizes reducing barriers to participation in physical activity and recommends the creation of culturally relevant and supportive policies and programing. Physical activity is a cornerstone in health promotion and public health to combat chronic diseases; however, in Canada, Indigenous developed physical activity programing is sparse, and those targeting women are non-existent in some regions. Makoyoh'sokoi (The Wolf Trail Program) is an 18-week long, holistic wellness program that was created by and for Indigenous women. Makoyoh'sokoi was developed by communities following extensive consultation and cultural oversight. Makoyoh'sokoi's core program consists of 12 weeks of weekly physical activity programing and health education, followed by another 6 weeks of weekly health education. Notably, communities have control over the program to modify based on individual needs and challenges. Programs commence and conclude with a ceremony with Elders giving a blessing and opening each other to connection. The goals of Makoyoh'sokoi are to empower women, improve health outcomes, and to implement a sustainable program by training a network of community members in their respective communities to facilitate delivery.
(© 2023. BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature.)

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Canada CIHR

Keywords: Education; Health; Indigenous; Physical activity; Wellness; Women

Date Created: 20230812 Date Completed: 20230814 Latest Revision: 20231118

20231215

PMC10422705

10.1186/s41043-023-00427-w

37573348