Connection to Country through the Practice of Wayapa
In today’s fast-paced world, finding balance and connection can often feel elusive. Justine Lenart, a passionate movement practitioner and First Nations woman, has embraced a practice that not only nurtures her well-being but also fosters a deeper connection to the Earth. This practice is called Wayapa Wurrk, which translates to “connect to the Earth” and is rooted in ancient Indigenous wisdom.
Wayapa Wurrk was created by Jamie Thomas and Sara Jones, and emphasizes the importance of caring for our planet as the foundation for overall wellness—earth, mind, body, and spirit. Justine believes that if Mother Earth isn’t well, then we cannot be well either. This holistic approach encourages individuals to cultivate a relationship with nature, reminding us that when we love and connect with the Earth, we are inspired to nurture it in return.
Image: Participants in one of Justine’s outdoor Wayupa workshops.
Justine’s journey with Wayapa began in 2019, driven by her love of movement as a form of meditation. Practicing outdoors, she finds solace and connection to nature’s elements. Wayapa consists of fourteen elements, each associated with a unique movement series. This practice offers a space for collective energy, and when shared with others, each session feels distinct and vibrant, shaped by the energy of the participants. For Justine, these gatherings spark meaningful conversations about caring for Country.
We are thrilled to have Justine share this beautiful practice with all of us at the 2025 Creative Mental Health Forum and Collective Care Retreat.
Image: Justine Lenart facilitating a Wayapa session wearing her Wayapa Wurrk t-shirt
Introducing Justine Lenart
After completing the Women’s Spirit Project last year, Justine experienced illuminating moments that ignited her desire to share the gift of Wayapa with others. This goal had been a long-held dream for her, and through this journey of self-discovery, she gained the confidence to facilitate sessions for groups, even those comprising hundreds of people. She describes this experience as “incredible” and finds joy in witnessing others benefit from the practice. “That is what I thrive on now,” she shares. “Seeing other people getting the benefit of the practice.”
In addition to her expertise in Wayapa, Justine is trained in Liberation Through Movement and is a qualified Yoga Teacher. Her mission transcends physical exercise; she strives to help individuals move trauma through their bodies without the need for words. As she puts it, “talking about it can make it worse.” This sensitive approach acknowledges that sometimes, movement can serve as a powerful alternative to verbal expression.
Justine’s connection to the Earth is deeply rooted in her heritage. With connections to the Palawa people in Tasmania, her work in Cultural Heritage for the Bunurong Land Council serves as an extension of her love for Country. Qualified in Conservation Land Management, she has dedicated herself to propagating Indigenous plants and helping restore ecosystems, finding healing and purpose in the process. “Caring for Country is how I have healed, and it is what drives me,” she affirms. “It helps keep me healthy, in body, mind, and spirit.”
Image: Hundreds of people practicing Wayupa together, an experience Justine describes as “incredible”.
Through her practice of Wayapa, Justine Lenart embodies the principles of connection, healing, and caretaker of the Earth. By promoting wellness through movement and nature, she not only enriches her life but also inspires others to embrace their own journeys toward Earth connection and holistic well-being. Justine’s story is a reminder that when we align ourselves with the natural world, we uncover the profound healing it can offer.
Justine will introduce all attendees of the 2025 Creative Mental Health Forum and Collective Care Retreat to the fourteen elements of Wayapa on Saturday 3rd May. She will also offer a smaller group intensive two-hour Wayapa workshop on Sunday 4th may for those who would like to delve deeper into Wayapa Wurrk and yarn about the elements and what they have to teach us about connecting and caring for Country.
Join us for the fifth annual Creative Mental Health Forum. 2nd – 5th May 2025.
Boon Wurrung Country: Inverloch, Victoria, Australia.
An immersive professional development event for allied health professionals, educators and creative practitioners who are deeply interested in the new paradigm of creative mental health and wellbeing.
Join us for the fifth annual Creative Mental Health Forum.
2nd – 5th May 2025.
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