Instead it was a time for rest and to learn arts such as karakia (prayer), crafts like weaving, waiata (songs) or whakapapa (geneology).  While this may not be feasible for everyone today, we know that everyone can be taking more time out to practice self care during this time.

If time permits, take your entire period off as rest and enjoy what you love; write, paint, read, meditate.

If you can’t, then try to take one day off, ideally the heaviest day

Or take one night off, ask family to cook, turn off your phone, run a warm bath with essential oils and candles and meditate. 

This is a great time to connect with your tupuna and to connect with yourself.