True beauty is not simply an external manifestation. It is more accurately described as the right combination of physical, mental and spiritual attributes. This ideal is strongly incorporated within the Hawaiian worldview. The ancient natives regarded the body as healthy only when a balance between all its vital components was achieved. Now, centuries later, people are realizing the benefits of taking a holistic approach to improve perceivable levels of attractiveness.

The youthful glow of skin that is pampered and nourished has as much to do with the application of topical preparations as it does with the nutrients ingested. Yet, this is only a part of the process necessary to attain complete and perfect health. The mental, spiritual and emotional states are not addressed by basic food consumption or product application. These important aspects run more deeply and demand greater focus and awareness of one's inner and outer self. Thus, the greatest beauty secrets to be gained from the Hawaiians are those that cater to all facets of the individual.

Maintaining Skin and Hair
The first step to enhancing one's appearance involves the use of naturally based products. The reliance on preparations that are derived directly from nature with minimal processing is ideal for promoting healthy hair and skin. Native Hawaiians have long used the fruits from indigenous trees like coconut and macadamia and exotic flowers like orchids and gardenia to encourage hair growth and softer, smoother skin. All these ingredients remain relevant today.

Coconut oil has been found to contain a unique chemical known as lauric acid which has several beneficial properties. It has the ability to subdue viruses, fungi, bacteria and even some cancers. When used in the hair it can provide an outstanding sheen and also reduces the incidence of dandruff and dry scalp conditions. When applied to the skin, especially on the face, it promotes the healing of dry, chapped areas and prevents and eliminates the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The advantageous effects of the oil were already known to ancient Hawaiians well before contact with the western world. Yet, its popularity is a fairly recent occurrence, because of a renewed interest in natural alternatives.

Other great additions to the skin include kelp, a variety of seaweed, jojoba oil, macadamia nut oil and volcanic mud. The latter is unique to certain geographical locations, Hawaii being one of them. Unlike regular volcanoes that produce lava, ash and gases, mud volcanoes are raised structures that contain small traces of oil, methane and large masses of mud. They are far less dangerous than normal volcanoes although they can erupt, spreading mud across a considerable area. The temperature inside a typical mud volcano is moderately cool making it an ideal place to take a dip.

The mud is usually enriched with minerals like calcium, magnesium, organic acids and iodine, yet, despite its volcanic properties it does not have any toxic components. Subsequently, it is ideal for full body massages and facial masks. The Hawaiians take advantage of this volcanic mud by applying it directly to the skin; it provides deep cleansing, thorough exfoliation and a smoother texture once the mask is removed. The use of these natural ingredients is a time honored tradition albeit only a fraction of the process necessary to attain genuine beauty.

The Use of Herbs
Another essential aspect of maintaining health and vibrancy lies in the use of herbs. On the islands, the Kahuna La'au lapa'au, a healer who specializes in herbal medicines, was and still is to an extent responsible for the treatment of certain maladies. Although, there are very few Kahunas left in Hawaii, the tradition of using various forms of plant life to purify and rejuvenate still continues to this day. These special concoctions have the ability to cleanse the internal system of the body, reducing mild annoyances like constipation, acne break outs, headaches, bad breath among many others. A body that functions as it should is, quite simply, more likely to be perceived as pleasing to the eye.

Nurturing the Spirit and Pampering the body
The mind and body are not indestructible nor can they perpetually continue to operate without periods of rest. Sleep and relaxation are two very necessary needs that must be met to ensure good health. Individuals who are well rested look younger and fresher, experience far less medical complaints and enjoy a better quality of life. Yet as simple as this seems, many people struggle to sleep at night or even relax. This is partially the result of overwork and stress which is unavoidable in modern societies. To combat this, relaxation techniques are the best option for the sleep deprived.

Of the many methods to choose from, Lomi Lomi offers relaxation and so much more. The Hawaiian massage technique has been in use for more than a millennium. It incorporates the physical element of touch to knead out tension in the body, spiritual awakening and aroma-therapeutic oils. A practitioner of the form is considered a healer. He literally spreads love throughout the body and rids it of stress and tension which is known to contribute to some chronic disorders. The masseuse is able to manipulate the body and nurture both the spirit and one's mental state.

The technique requires much ceremony and ritualistic adherence to specific principles. Practitioners often pray before and after to prepare the surroundings for the impending therapy. Oils are applied to the skin and flowers of various scents are sometimes included to boost the aroma-therapeutic effect. Once the practitioner places his loving hands on the body he is soon able to restore the correct balance needed for overall well-being. The person leaves with a feeling of peace, spiritual upliftment and reduced anxiety. Getting the body to relax as it should is very critical in restoring true health. Once this is achieved an individual will feel and look a great deal better.

Releasing Resentment
The final step in attaining true health and beauty involves settling past grievances. The ancient Hawaiians engaged in a practice known as Ho'oponopono which stressed the importance of forgiveness. Where any injustices were done to another or where errors were committed, wrongdoers were encouraged to make amends. By doing this, the karmic balance was restored. Because the Hawaiians believed that karma had the power to affect future generations they were very careful in their dealings and made every attempt to move beyond petty resentment. This practice can be applied in daily life, by letting go of hurt and hate an individual removes a burden that has the potential to disrupt the spiritual, mental and emotional balance necessary to promote total well-being.

While it is possible to give the body all it needs to live merely by consuming food and taking care of the skin, this will only do so much. By amalgamating all of the methods mentioned here including relaxation techniques, the practice of eliminating hateful thoughts and the use of natural preparations and herbs the entire self becomes more resilient and reflective of this vitality. Beauty goes beyond the skin and what can physically be seen, thus, to attain real beauty an individual most be willing to consistently address all aspects.

You might also be interested in these other natural skin care articles:
Natural Skin Care Products | Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care | Natural Dry Skin Remedies | Hawaiian Skin Care | Organic Skin Care | Plant and Nut Oils for Skin Care | Essential Oils | Tropical Aromatherapy | Natural Skin Care made in Hawaii | Botanical Skin Care | Skin Exfoliation | Hawaiian Stone Therapy | History of the Hawaiian Kukui Tree | History of the Hawaiian Coconut | History of Shea Butter | History of the Macadamia Nut Tree | Hawaiian Sun Protection | Keeping your Skin Healthy on Vacation | Skin Healing Properties of Aloe Vera

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