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What is (Huna lomi lomi) Hawaiian Massage?

Although Huna lomilomi and romiromi massage are great for releasing physical tension, increasing blood, lymph flow, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall well-being, traditionally it is not simply a massage technique. 

Lomilomi” translates to mean “to rub, to soothe or also to shift”. “Huna” is also a Hawaiian word that means “secret or sacred” .

Lomilomi is holistic in nature so it goes beyond physical relaxation as it treats not only the muscles but also the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being. Sessions can be slow and meditative, or more vigorous, depending on your needs.

Lomilomi is deeply rooted in the Hawaiian philosophy of aloha (love, compassion, and connection). The long, flowing, rhythmic strokes create a sensation like gentle waves moving across the body. This continuous, nurturing touch helps quiet the mind, release tension, and encourage the free flow of energy (mana) throughout the body.

Traditionally the kuhuna in the Hawaiian communities only taught the lomilomi and other aspects of huna healing knowledge to select students within the family. A tradition that passed down from generation to generation. In modern times certain Kahunas have been willing to extend the teaching to anyone that has a deep interest to learn lomilomi and their traditional way of thinking. It is important to know that although permission has been given for anyone to learning and give the lomilomi, no one who is not of true Hawaiian Lineage can claim to be a "Kahuna" no matter how much they have trained. Also note that Max Freedom adopted the term “Huna’ to describe his new age theories. His new age philosophy is not from the Hawaiians.

As lomilomi spread around the world, many Western interpretations of lomilomi have reduced it to a massage technique focused only on physical touch, which unfortunately strips away much of its original essence and depth.

I am not Hawaiian and so I am certainly not a Kahuna. I was taught by Glenda Nikolic in 7 levels of Huna lomilomi. Glenda taught a respect for the origins and essence of the traditional lomilomi.

As a lomilomi practitioner I am always evolving. I have some knowledge of the essence and philosophy of the lomilomi and bring this to my work. Most recently, I have been very fortunate to learn more on the essence of lomilomi from a 51st generation cultural teacher from Hawaii in a 5-week online training. He described an invisible thread. He said, '“When we step into this work, we are stepping into a cord woven through time”. (He pike ka ‘uhane, pili i Na kupana). The spirit is a piko - always connected to the ancestors. Each practitioner is a link in the chain. They say: “Do not seek to create your own way. Seek to carry the way that was given, until it lives through you”.

I believe the true essence of lomilomi ancestors flows within the lomilomi. I can not take any credit for how unique and beautiful it is. I am simply the vehicle it is delivered through. I feel this as I work.

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About Rachel

Remedial Massage therapist | Hawaiian Huna massage therapist | Yoga Therapist

I value both intuitive traditional healing and evidence based research. Bringing old world and new world knowledge together can bring you a safe and powerfully healing experience which can be transformational.

Qualifications

Diploma of Huna Massage and Philosophy

Diploma of Remedial Massage

Certificate in Ashiatsu Massage

Certificate in Maori Healing Massage

Certificate in Vibrational Kinesiology (Sound healing)

Diploma of Health and Wellness Coaching

Diploma Hatha Yoga (Vinyasa, yin, Yinyang)

Diploma of Yoga Therapy

3 yrs Bachelor of Science (Nutritional Medicine)

Certificate Mat Pilates