Appreciating Living Well in Two Rural Nova Scotian Communities

ABSTRACT

This article employs appreciative inquiry to investigate factors that mediate or foster rural well-being in Tatamagouche and Advocate Harbour, Nova Scotia. Study participants identified many factors involved in bolstering well-being: community engagement, an appreciation of the natural magnificence, vibrant arts and culture, citizen efficacy, and a sense of shared responsibility. They also included environmental sustainability, healthy lifestyles, self-sufficiency, being hospitable, compassionate, and responsible citizens with playful and grateful spirits. Further study is needed to substantiate the factors that could help mediate rural well-being.

KEYWORDS:

• Appreciative inquiry
• community engagement
• prosperity
• resiliency
• rural well-being
• sustainability
• vibrancy