Onion Lake

Researchers are evaluating the Makoyoh'sokoi (Wolf Trail) Program, a holistic wellness program designed to support Indigenous women aged 18 and older in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The program aims to improve participants' health by increasing their activation and ability to manage their own wellness, focusing on healthy nutrition, physical activity, and cultural engagement. By connecting to Indigenous culture and community resources, the program seeks to enhance participants' self-efficacy, health literacy, quality of life, and mental health over time. The program consists of a 12-week intense phase including weekly exercise classes, nutrition and wellness education, sharing circles, urban poling sessions, and introductions to local healthcare providers. Participants receive ongoing online support and daily pedometer tracking for motivation. Following this is a 6 to 12-week follow-up phase with weekly contact from a facilitator to encourage healthy activities, continued online engagement, and additional education and sharing sessions. The program is delivered in groups of 20-25 participants and includes cultural and spiritual elements led by Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and Elders. Participants will be involved in assessments before the program, after the intense phase, after the full program, and one year later. These include measures of activation, physical activity (step counts and questionnaires), quality of life, sense of belonging, and mental health. Data will be collected on-site or online, with follow-up arrangements made if participants cannot attend scheduled sessions. The study will monitor changes in health outcomes and participant experiences throughout the 24-week program and over the longer-term follow-up period.