Are you looking to study a holistic, spiritual bodywork technique but not quite sure where to start? Kahuna bodywork has its roots in tropical Hawaii and offers something more than just hands on techniques, with an intimate, spiritual approach that will appeal to those looking for this role as a practitioner. ntpages caught up with Kia'i Weber from the Australian College of Kahuna Sciences, which offers a number of courses in the modality to find out more.
What exactly does kahuna mean?
"Kahuna is a Hawaiian term that describes anyone who has specialised knowledge – in this case a master practitioner."
What is kahuna bodywork and what does it involve?
"It is essentially a spiritual approach, connecting us with others and the universe. Kahuna bodywork is a rite of passage, a way to help clients understand themselves and change their lives. It uses concepts and moves of Hawaiian martial arts together with elements of massage, though we use the forearms a lot as well as the fingers and hands."
What is the great attraction of studying kahuna bodywork?
"Studying the modality gives one the opportunity to get to know oneself, to grow and improve while accompanying our clients on their own special journey."
Do I need any qualifications to be able to start studying?
"There are no pre-study requirements. We do interview applicants to determine their suitability and encourage them to attend a workshop before they enrol."
What qualities are you looking for in potential students?
"First and foremost they need to have a strong commitment to themselves. They also need a willingness to get to know themselves and their capabilities, so they can practise with dignity and compassion while assisting their clients on their unique journey of discovery."
What course options do you offer?
"We offer a Certificate IV in Kahuna Bodywork, a Diploma of Kahuna Bodywork and an Advanced Diploma of Kahuna Sciences (Bodywork/Instructor Training)."
What is the difference between these three offerings?
"The Certificate course teaches foundational relaxation skills for the modality while the Diploma increases a student’s skills and self knowledge. To proceed onto the Advanced Diploma you really need to have a real sense of self as this involves much deeper work."
Can you give us a snapshot of some typical course content?
"There are practical and theoretical elements to all the courses, with health sciences forming the core of the theoretical portion. This is usually done via home study or flexible learning. In terms of the hands on element students must complete an extensive period of training in a workshop setting, and we also give them further exposure at student clinics."
How long will I take to complete these individual courses?
"The Certificate IV takes 15 months, the Diploma another 12 months and the Advanced Diploma a further 12 months. These timeframes can vary depending on the commitment of the student."
What career options do graduates have?
"Some graduates go into private practice, while others find employment in the many spas and retreats around the country. Others come to us purely for personal development."
Are your courses accredited?
"Yes, they all lead to nationally accredited qualifications. Graduates also have access to the Kahuna Training Guild which offers continuing education and peer review weekends – a great way of keeping your skills up to date."
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