Te Ao Mārama by Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho

In a world where we spend so much time looking at screens, finding simple ways to slow down has become increasingly important. Sometimes it can be as easy as putting away your phone and picking up a coloured pencil. Te Ao Mārama: A Mindful Colouring Book offers a creative way to pause and focus on the moment.

Illustrated by Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho, the book takes inspiration from the diverse beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand’s landscapes, flora and wildlife. The title Te Ao Mārama refers to the world of light and understanding. Its 70 illustrations are arranged across four sections: Manu ā Uri o Tangaroa, Te Taiao, Atua and Rongoā Māori. Together, they explore Aotearoa’s birds and marine life, the natural world, atua and rongoā Māori.

There is plenty of detail to absorb you without the pages feeling overwhelming. The illustrations encourage you to notice patterns, shapes and the small elements that make up the natural world. Choosing colours and gradually bringing each image to life also allows plenty of room for individual creativity.

This is part of what makes colouring such an appealing mindfulness activity. The simple act of choosing a colour and concentrating on the detail in front of you brings your attention back to the present. There is no need to achieve anything or rush towards a finished result. You can simply enjoy the process.

This feels particularly valuable when so much of our day is spent moving between screens, messages and tasks. Colouring creates a small pocket of quiet and gives your hands something to do while allowing your mind to settle. It’s also refreshingly analogue, with no notifications competing for your attention.

Huriana's illustrations add another dimension to the experience. The imagery encourages you to connect with te taiao and reflect on the natural and spiritual worlds represented throughout the book.

“Our generation was lucky enough to grow up in the aftermath of the Māori Renaissance and have access to a lot more information about who we are as a people. It’s hard not to feel inspired by and responsible to the next generation of makers.”Te Ao Mārama brings together creativity, mindfulness and a distinctly Aotearoa perspective. The detailed illustrations give you plenty to explore and enjoy at your own pace. If you're looking for a creative way to practise mindfulness, spend some time away from screens and connect with te taiao, this book is for you.

Huriana is also the illustrator of the bestselling Whakawhetai: Gratitude, Māori Ora and Piki te Ora: Your Well-being Journal. Follow Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho online.

Reviewer: Andrea Molloy

Allen & Unwin