What Is Hawaiian Massage?
Lomi Lomi, which means "to rub and roll" in the Hawaiian language, is a traditional Hawaiian restorative healing system, which utilises the art of compassionate touch for the treatment of the clients. It was introduced by the early Polynesian settlers and has since been practised by Hawaiian healers.
The practitioner uses hands, forearms, elbows, fingers, feet, knees, and including sticks and stones to massage the client. Aside from its therapeutic effects, Lomi Lomi helps in increasing the spiritual energy and personal power, also called mana, of the client.
How Does Hawaiian Massage Work?
Lomi Lomi involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body to release physical and emotional blockages like self-limiting thoughts, emotions and habits. This type of massage is based on the concept that pain and disease are caused by blockages stored in the subconscious mind and cells of the body.
By performing long, flowing strokes on the client's body, the practitioner is able to eliminate the blockages and restore balance and harmony to their mind and body.
What Is Hawaiian Kahuna Massage?
Kahuna massage is a holistic natural therapy based on the teachings and practices of the Hawaiian Kahunas, which aim to heal the body, mind, and spirit. The Kahuna, or master healer, uses his or her hands, elbows and forearms in giving the massage. Music is played then the kahuna may dance around the table using hula style movements to create a harmony with the client.
Kahuna massage uses certain elements of Lomi Lomi, but unlike the latter which only uses a reasonable amount of massage oil―or none at all―this type of bodywork requires generous amounts of palm or nut oils.
What Are the Benefits of Hawaiian Massage?
The primary focus of Hawaiian massage is to treat the body and mind as a whole, as opposed to being two separate parts. It improves the functions of the major organ systems, supports the body's detoxification process, and it also brings about a sense of peace, harmony and wellbeing.
The long massage strokes stimulate the natural energy flow within the body to bring about the important changes in the physical, emotional and spiritual areas. The massage can also treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Postural problems
- Poor circulation and low immunity
- Muscle tension
- Joint restriction
- Headaches and migraines
- Slow metabolism
- Injuries
- Stress
- Anxiety and depression
- Grief or loss
What Can You Expect From Hawaiian Massage?
Before the massage session begins, the practitioner sits down with the client to discuss their physical, mental and emotional concerns. They will also ask about the client's medical history or possible contraindications. Having a clear understanding of what the client needs will enable them to come up with the best treatment plan.
Clients are encouraged to focus on their breathing during the massage. Inhaling helps them draw fresh energy and inspiration into their system, while exhaling helps release tension and negative thoughts. In addition to long massage strokes, the practitioner may also stretch the client's arms and legs and rotate their joints to free up stagnant energy.
When it comes to clothing preference, clients are advised to wear as little as possible since Lomi Lomi is a whole-body massage, with the strokes running from the client's feet all the way to their shoulders. A towel will be provided to cover parts of the body that don't need to be massaged. Some massage centres offer disposable underwear for clients who aren't comfortable with going fully naked.
A Lomi Lomi session usually lasts for an hour, but some clients would request an extension of up to two hours. No one can blame them, as this Hawaiian massage is deeply relaxing and rejuvenating.
