Walk, Learn and Connect: AYA Transforms Your Fitness Journey into a Cultural Exploration

Cultural Immersion on the Forefront of Health: AYA Content Benefits Body, Mind and Spirit

Several studies have shown a positive effect on the health of First Americans from being connected to their culture and cultural traditions. A 2018 review of 72 studies found that cultural connection for Indigenous groups is significantly and positively associated with physical health, social and emotional well-being and reduced risk-taking behaviors. However, for many First Americans in the 20th century, they experienced cultural disconnect as they assimilated into mainstream American society. They had to set aside their cultural traditions, and younger generations were not able to experience those traditions as their parents and grandparents had.

Today, though, many First American tribes, including the Chickasaw Nation, are reclaiming their cultural heritage. These important efforts are ensuring those traditions will continue to live on for generations to come. Language, ceremonies, games, foods, lifeways, beliefs, stories and the arts have become the focus of preservation and education. Through determination and perseverance, Chickasaws have kept these traditions alive through the 20th century for the new generations to reclaim, showcasing the warrior spirit of the Chickasaw people.

AYA is one of the efforts of the Chickasaw Nation to address two critical issues for our people and many First Americans. Those issues are health improvement and cultural connection. AYA seeks to improve physical health by motivating users to walk more, helping to combat several chronic health problems common among First Americans and Americans in general, such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension and heart disease.

In addition, AYA seeks to increase the knowledge of all users regarding Chickasaw history, culture, language and traditions. Featuring content teaching users about First American history and culture to motivate physical activity is unique among fitness apps. An added benefit of this content is it can also improve mental, emotional and spiritual well-being for Chickasaw citizens.

Cultural Immersion on the Move: AYA Connects You to the Stories of the Chickasaw Nation

AYA brings you foundational stories of Chickasaw culture. You will learn of the Chickasaw stories about creation and the origins of all things, the relationship between humans and all creation, Aba' Binni'li' (the One Who Sits Above), the interconnectedness of the Earth, people, animals and plants, the sacredness of life, respect for elders and the value of family and clans.

You will hear Chikashshanompa' (the Chickasaw language), which is central to the cultural identity of our people. Learn about cultural objects used in celebrations and everyday life. Hear songs about Chickasaw knowledge, belief and language, which express the experiences and beliefs of the Chickasaw people.

Walking with AYA will immerse you in the culture and traditions giving Chickasaw people identity, strength and hope. Learning about this culture will motivate and inspire AYA users to stay committed to being healthy in body, mind and spirit.

Cultural Immersion at Work: Step Up Your Fitness with AYA Today

If you are not an AYA user, download the app and start walking with us today. If you are already an AYA user, be sure you are getting the most out of your fitness journey by using all the features in the app. You can learn more about AYA by exploring the blog articles below.

• Discover AYA’s Mindfulness Feature
• Explore AYA’s Points of Interest
• Connect with Choctaw Hymns in the AYA App

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with the latest additions and features on the app and exciting challenges within the AYA community. Be part of a growing network of individuals dedicated to their fitness journey and exploring Chickasaw culture.

Make your fitness journey more successful by walking every day with AYA.

Anowa chipisala'cho (until we meet again),

Your AYA Walk Team

References:

Bassett, D., Tsosie, U., & Nannauck, S. (2012). “Our culture is medicine”: Perspectives of Native Healers on post trauma recovery among American Indian and Alaska Native patients. The Permanente Journal, 16(1), 19–27. https://doi.org/10.7812/tpp/11-123

Bourke, S., Wright, A., Guthrie, J., Russell, L., Dunbar, T., & Lovett, R. (2018). Evidence review of indigenous culture for Health and Wellbeing. The International Journal of Health, Wellness, and Society, 8(4), 11–27. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327225093_Evidence_Review_of_Indigenous_Culture_for_Health_and_Wellbeing

Masotti, P., Dennem, J., Bañuelos, K., Seneca, C., Valerio-Leonce, G., Inong, C. T., & King, J. (2023). The culture is prevention project: Measuring Cultural Connectedness and providing evidence that culture is a social determinant of health for Native Americans. BMC Public Health, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-15587-x