Lomilomi

Hawaiian Lomilomi or lomi-lomi is the traditional massage of Hawaii. Every practitioner does it in the unique style of his or her kumu (teachers), usually as taught by their 'ohana (family). Similar to European massage because of it's kneading and gliding strokes, and the Romi styles found in the South Pacific, it is a powerful tool for increasing circulation, soothing nerves, and loosening muscle tissue. It also addresses energetic levels by helping emotions and thoughts to be pono (righteous). Lomilomi is truly a holistic art because it treats the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Some of Nancy's kumu (teachers) and friends can be seen on these videos or in these photos. Although every teacher's style is different, all traditional kumu are humble, light-hearted, and believe in and practice certain things:

1. Pule & Oli (prayer and chants)
2. Loving Touch (unconditional love and aloha)
3. Ho'oponopono (forgiveness; alignment; correcting old beliefs)
4. La'au Lapa'au (medicinal plants for cleansing & rejuvenation)
5. Taking full responsibility for one's own actions and choices
6. Internal cleansing.

In addition, some may use lomi sticks, lava stones, salt water, special foods, and other tools in the lomi treatment.
Other forms of Hawaiian bodywork found today include the sensual "temple" bodywork and rituals from Kauai, and the Huna teachings, a system of self-empowerment based on ancient universal laws popularized by Max Freedom Long and Aloha International. In Australia and Germany, these are called by many names, including "kahuna" massage. But the elders tell us that the belief that lomi was part of an ancient sexual initiation or puberty rite is not acurate. Lomi traditionally was done on a donation basis to help a client's health or healing process. As is true throughout Polynesia, it was usually done on the floor, with the hands or feet.

Today we still find a lot of confusion about what constitutes "authentic" lomi. Some claim it was used in sexual puberty rites, but there is no evidence to support this.
The best source for authenticity is to turn to the elders themselves and turn away from people charging huge amounts of money and making exagerated claims. In the last 5 years, more and more is being shared by the kanaka maoli (native Hawaiians) as they piece together the wisdom from the past. Most therapists combine their favorite techniques from many different teachings and blend them into their own unique routines which are usually adapted to a massage table.

Order Nancy's revised Hawaiian Lomilomi book today!

For Lomilomi classes/videos in California with Tamara, who's article was featured in Massage Magazine, click here.