Aloha!
For people who practices Lomi Lomi massage, the word “aloha” means “the joyful sharing of life energy in the present”.
Lomi Lomi is a holistic healing tradition beyond simple massage. Lomi, means “to rub, press, squeeze, massage”.
Massage is one of the leading prescriptions for healing passed on to us from our ancestors. Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage was created by Polynesian ancestors, more particularly known as the superior healers of Hawaii. In ancient times, the way to relax and release bad toxins from the body was to receive a massage.
According to the Hawaiian philosophy Huna, Lomi Lomi massage emphasizes living in harmony and love. Lomi Lomi massage is known as loving hands massage as it works gently and deeply into the muscles having a continuous flow of strokes, and enabling the body to take a rest relax and unwind. Therefore, Lomi Lomi is denoted as a unique form of massage which is defined as a massage with the touch of love. Hawaiians look essentially for harmony and flow in their surroundings.
Lomi Lomi massage is also known as “The Loving Touch”. This means that all portions of the human body are connected with one another, and that through sensual massage, the body can restore to its natural and normal behavior.
Likewise, the word “Aloha” pertains to nurturing the body of the recipients as their own which is the very foundation of Hawaiian’s Lomi Lomi massage.
It helps to bring out the blockages and at the same time gives the energy a new direction. Consequently, Lomi Lomi massage is not just a physical relaxation; it also facilitates healing on the mental, emotional, and spiritual self as well.
When Lomi Lomi massage takes the healing effect on one level, all other levels are affected too.
One of the Huna philosophies states that flow of the body’s energy can be blocked in our joints. Tender touches and stretches are integrated in the massage procedure to ensure the release of tension and free energy flow.
The four elements are part of the Lomi Lomi massage to create harmony:
– Earth element induces some deep liberating movements, the strength of the body, the feeling of being sheltered. Help to get rid of tensions,
– Water element induces fluidity, help to reconnect to your emotions, harmonization of subtile perceptions,
– Air element induces space, expansion, release, bring soothing reassurance and reconnect oneself to the univers,
– Fire element induces warmth, joy, dynamism, stimulate and give willingness to undertake.
The massage starts on the back of the recipient with long, fluid, and rhythmic motions using the hands and forearms.
Massaging different parts of the body at the same time is another unique feature of Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage, wherein the recipient can feel a profound sensation of relaxation because multiple areas are being worked on. In this manner, Hawaiians believed that the normal flow and harmony of an individual can be achieved by the removal of toxins and wastes produced by an individual’s body.
Indications and Contraindications
Although not curative, Lomi Lomi massage can provide effective relax by reduction of stress and promote a positive relationship with the body by a sensation of unity between mind and body.
Lomi Lomi massage can relieve :
- Tensions of the neck, shoulders, back,
- Headache related to stress,
- Stress and sensation of exhaustion,
- Lack of self-confidence,
- Tensions,
- Anxiety, depression.
While there are few contraindications associated with this massage, the therapist must ensure that the massage is geared to the needs and the condition of the client.
A person cannot receive a massage if he or she has :
- Cancer
- Fever
- An infectious disease
- After a major surgical procedure
- Pregnancy
- Open wound…
The Session
Lomi Lomi massage session begins with an overall assessment of the recipient’s health. Whether preventive or palliative in nature, the Lomi Lomi massage can benefit anyone looking to sustain a healthy relationship with his or her body and entire being.
With soft hands and by properly using his or her body weight and the correct breathing, the massage therapist invites the client to let go, release his or her muscles and rediscover his or her senses.
Based on a well defined and fluid series of maneuvers using massage oil, Lomi Lomi massage is characterized by long and enveloping movements.
Some additional tips on making the most out of your massage
- Don’t eat a heavy meal before the massage.
- Let your therapist know if the stones are too warm or the pressure is too intense.
- If it’s your first time, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.
A cup of organic tea or decaffeinated coffee and some cookies are offered after the massage.
Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for information purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your eating habits.