Hawaiian "Lomi Lomi" Massage Training.

The word Lomi means "massage" in the Hawaiian language. This unique treatment, invented by master healers, is still considered to have curative power today. It is the subject of a specific ritual for traditional Polynesian massage therapists. It is a heritage passed down to younger generations by the ancient Polynesian peoples. We have no evidence to date its appearance in the Pacific Islands, particularly in Hawaii. However, it is known to have been used for many centuries by indigenous populations. Huna philosophy It is impossible to understand the philosophy of Lomi Lomi massage without first grasping the essence of the Hawaiian philosophy called "Huna." The fundamental theory of "Huna" is that all creatures seek harmony and love. This philosophy consists of 7 principles which are: IKE - the world is as you imagine it. KALA - There are no limits. MAKIA - Energy flows to where your attention is focused. MANAWA - Power resides in the present moment. PONO - Truth is measured by its effectiveness. MANA - All power comes from within. ALOHA - To love and be happy, love is the source of all power. Lomi Lomi respects the seven precepts of Huna, but its roots lie in Aloha. Aloha is fundamental to all spiritual growth and healing. To love is to love others. Connecting with the love one feels for another creates a bond. This philosophy also revolves around the spirit of Ho'oponopono, the principle of nonviolent communication, and Hawaiian-style Zen. Communication can take many forms, and in the case of Lomi Lomi, it is tactile. This is why the expression "Lomi Lomi" is often translated more philosophically as "the massage of loving hands". According to ancient Hawaiian tradition, healing occurs through the affection shown to the person being massaged. Simply put, it is impossible to give a good massage without good intentions. The massage will only be well performed by the practitioner if their heart is filled with love for the other person. This technique also refers to the idea that one can fight an illness, like one fights a war, without hatred, with the energy of peace and universal benevolence towards humanity. The person receiving the massage thus becomes, for the duration of the massage, the respected and cherished focus of the practitioner. Energy and harmony The "Huna" philosophy posits that all the cells in our body possess a memory and that the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects form an inseparable whole. Therefore, for Hawaiian healers, Lomi Lomi massage does not act solely on a physical level but provides healing that addresses the holistic dimension of the individual. Lomi Lomi massage also works in terms of energy currents, its primary goal being to restore harmony. Illness is considered a disharmony or state of tension, leading to resistance that hinders the proper flow of energy throughout the body. This massage ultimately aims to connect with universal energy. Lomi Lomi allows for complete relaxation and also helps eliminate toxins stored in the body's cells. The Lomi Lomi massage begins by establishing an atmosphere of humility, tranquility, and trust between the practitioner and the recipient. The massage is performed using gentle, flowing strokes, as well as sequences of firmer, rhythmic movements made with the hands and forearms for a deep, penetrating effect. The symbolism of the sea is very present in this massage; the rocking movements give the sensation of gentle waves moving over the body. But this isn't the only symbolism found in Lomi Lomi, as the four elements are represented throughout the treatment protocol. This is also why almost all the techniques, with a few rare exceptions, are performed in multiples of four: 4, 8, 12, 16, or 20 times. Thus, light touches symbolize air, deep pressures Earth, fluid movements and rocking water, and finally frictions and large maneuvers extending over the whole body with the aim of unification recall the comforting warmth of fire. The spirit of Lomi Lomi massage also stems from ancient Hawaiian traditions of hospitality. Guests were offered a Lomi Lomi massage not only as a way to honor them, but also to soothe those who had endured a long sea voyage. Lomi Lomi is meant to be synonymous with the sharing of energy and life; it is the quintessence of expressing love for one's neighbor. The benefits of Lomi Lomi massage are numerous; it is recommended to improve blood and lymphatic circulation, relieve muscle tension, rid the body of waste and toxins, and restore physical and mental harmony. Finally, it is used in Hawaii to facilitate childbirth.