The built environment can have a significant impact on the wellness of First Nations communities. Wellness is about creating a culture of well-being - physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. It includes multiple dimensions that lead to a thriving community.
To promote wellness in First Nations communities, it is essential to prioritize sustainable development that respects the cultural values and traditions of the community. This can involve creating spaces that promote physical activity and outdoor recreation, as well as incorporating traditional knowledge and practices into building design and land use planning. Efforts should also be made to ensure that basic infrastructure, such as clean water and sanitation systems, are in place and functioning properly.
It is important to recognize the unique needs of each First Nations community and to work collaboratively with community members to develop tailored solutions that prioritize their cultural values and promote their overall wellness. This can involve engaging community members in the planning and design process and incorporating their feedback into the final product.