What is the Lomi Lomi Massage of Hawaii?

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Lomi Lomi is an attractive form of transformational Hawaiian massage. It is considered to be one of the deepest massages. The word “Lomi Lomi” means “massage” or “rub” in Hawaiian language. Lomi lomi is a traditional Hawaiian massage method used to enhance both physical and mental relaxation. Lomi lomi massage is performed with a combination of prayers, breathing techniques and instinctive massage strokes. There are no classic Lomi Lomi massage methods. The  method of the massage depends upon the massage therapist and the client necessities. Lomi Lomi massage was taught only within the Hawaiian family for years. Methods differ by family, region and island. It seeks to combine prayer and energy to relax the nervous system, increase circulation, and relieve pain and sickness. The massage therapist applies rhythmic pressure to areas of tension with the thumbs, palms, knuckles, forearms, elbows, knees and feet. It is a well-liked part of holistic health, and a very common type of massage all over the world.

What is the history of Lomi Lomi massage?

In the 1820's early disciples to the Hawaiian Islands found the native healers to be precise in their diagnosis and treatment of sickness, and in healing broken bones. In 1893, after years of political disorder, the new government banned all spiritual traditions, including healing arts, the study of the Hawaiian language, and hula dancing. But the sacred traditions did not pass away. Instead, they were hidden and practiced in secrecy, passed down only within the Hawaiian community. In 1970's, the laws were changed and Hawaiians were free to practice their native heritage and spiritual traditions, without fear of punishment. This freedom renewed a flame in the heart of many native people, and led to a renaissance of interest in their cultural heritage. Hawaiian Healing Arts was created to carry on the life work and teachings of native Hawaiian healer and master teacher Auntie Margaret Machado. Hawaiian Lomi Lomi was kept secret within families for most of its history, until Aunty Margaret Machado decided to teach anyone who wanted to learn "the loving touch". In 1973 Auntie began teaching Lomi Lomi, a Hawaiian massage tradition that was formerly taught only within the Hawaiian family.

Why is the basic concept of Lomi Lomi massage?

•  The Hawaiians view things in terms of energy flow. They believe that they could transfer their own vital energy into a person who is sick.
•  Lomi Lomi helps release the blockages, as well as offers energy in a new direction.
•  So, Lomi Lomi is not just a physical experience.
•  It also allows healing on the mental, emotional and spiritual levels.
•  The Hawaiians see all parts of the body as one and consider that the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual are all part of the "whole body”. Thus, when healing is effected on one level, all levels are affected too.

How is Lomi Lomi performed?

• The traditional way of lomi lomi massage is done with the client lying on a hand-woven mat on the floor. However, these days the client is asked to lie directly on the vinyl of the table.
•  Instead of being covered with towels, the client may be offered just one towel or a small sheet to cover his body.
•  Generally, Lomi lomi massage starts with a few minutes of immobility between therapist and client, occasionally with the therapist's hands resting gently on the client’s back.
•  At this period of stillness, a traditional lomi lomi practitioner will chant a blessing or prayer for whatever healing is desired.
•  The massage therapist will work instinctively with the client’s body with fluid.
•  The therapist creates rhythmic strokes to release and shift tensions.
•  The treatment may be slow and relaxing, or faster and more refreshing, depending on how the body responds.
•  The therapist massages two different parts of the body at the same time in order to stop the brain from focusing on any one specific area. This helps to promote relaxation.
•  Occasionally, lomi lomi is performed by two therapists in order to deepen the effect.
•  The therapist will make full-body or under-body strokes slightly stretch the client’s limbs and cautiously rotate his/her joints in order to increase the energy flow.
•  The therapist will do them very gently.
•  In case, if the therapist is a traditional lomi lomi practitioner, she will hum at different points at the time of the massage. Humming is believed to generate improved and vibrating energy that promotes the release of blockages within the body.
•  Dance movements and hula movements are also vital in maintaining a high energy flow. So, the therapist may dance during the massage.
•  As there are no specific rules for the massage, method of massage differs from person to person.

What are the precautions to be taken?

• It is important to get a doctor’s approval before taking lomi lomi massage.
•  The client must tell his/her complete medical history to the therapist before starting the massage.

What are the benefits of Lomi Lomi massage?

Lomi lomi targets to treat the body and mind as one whole being. It is believed to:

• release tension
•  helps for proper blood and lymph flow
•  help to eradicate cellular waste
•  revitalize the body
•  Inspire a sense of peace, harmony and happiness.
•  Dilates blood vessels
•  Improve circulation.
•  Prevent strokes.
•  Relieves muscle spasms
•  Increases the rate of nutrients brought to the muscles by the blood, with out increasing lactic acid production.

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