The process of performing a holistic Hawaiian massage involves the restoration of the body's natural energy flow to foster good health and revitalization. These full body massage techniques are carried out by practitioners who are well-versed in the art of healing an individual by achieving the right balance between the emotional and physical state. The traditional massage techniques used are Kahuna, Lomilomi and Temple Style. Lomilomi is by far the most popular form which emphasizes the therapeutic effect of loving hands on the body. The use of massage therapy is a longstanding tradition in Hawaiian culture. It is revered for its power to both heal and transform the subject. A true Hawaiian massage is not performed in the confines and artificial setting of a spa but instead in an area that promotes true rejuvenation and heightened sensation. This distinction is what has allowed the growing popularity of these techniques to thrive wherever its practitioners make themselves available.

History of Hawaiian Massage
The origin of Hawaiian massage is attributed to the first Polynesian settlers who developed several techniques that were brought to the newly founded island. The practice evolved over the centuries becoming something inherently Hawaiian in its execution. There were no limitations on who could practice the art of holistic massage which meant that even children and elders learned how to employ the beneficial methods. Lomilomi, which remains popular today, was at that time the most prominent form. It incorporated several techniques many of which have merged to produce its uniquely advantageous effects.

In 1820, however, the practice fell into disrepute. Laws were established that made it illegal to perform these massages as a form of medical treatment. Nonetheless, the actual use of the Hawaiian massage for relaxation continued as an activity of leisure if not one of healing.

By 1947, fully instituted laws recognized the practice as a potential medical alternative despite the previous ban. These laws made it mandatory for practitioners to sit for and pass a test on anatomy and the theory of massage. This was met with resistance by a few healers who decided to forgo testing and continue the practice without certification. The law still remains in effect today although the terms have been relaxed to allow native practitioners greater ease in acquiring legal status.

Hawaiian massages, in particular Lomilomi, are in demand globally. Japan and Europe have developed special programs that train masseuses in this style of massage. However, the techniques used are slightly different from the original form that took centuries to develop. A true practitioner of Lomilomi may spend years learning its nuances. Under the tutelage of an experienced Lomilomi Kupana, a student will be exposed to a variety of ways to express the intricacies of this holistic therapy. The spiritual and healing aspect are not easily reproduced by therapists who are mainly focused on the hand and body movements and not the overall effect of the massage. Subsequently, an individual looking for an authentic experience will require the services of a native massage therapist or one that has been tutored by a Kupana. The Hawaiian massage experience relies on multiple factors including the setting and atmosphere, the skill level of the masseuse and the openness of the subject.

Forms of Hawaiian Holistic Massage
The stand-out feature of Hawaiian massage is its ability to focus on all aspects of the subject. This holistic approach is what gives it its unique healing properties and additional therapeutic advantages. Although Lomilomi is the most commonly practiced form, there are still great benefits to be derived from the use of either the Temple Style of Kahuna.

The Kahuna incorporates the use of the hands, the elbows and the forearms in manipulating the body during the massage. The entire session is infused with music to enhance the relaxation effect. Additionally, the masseuse may engage in dance movements to help restore the balance that is natural to the subject's mind, body and soul.

The Lomilomi massage is based on the underlying philosophy of Huna which proposes the idea that all entities are in search of harmony and love. These needs are transferred from the hands of the masseuse to the subject being pampered. The strokes are gentle, nurturing and glide over different areas of the body to increase the potential for total relaxation. This technique does not simply require gifted hands but also the ability to channel the deep sentiment of love and emotional stability from one mind to another.

This form employs the use of several body parts to induce the full effects.. Hands, knuckles, feet, elbows, fingers, palms and sometimes external objects are all engaged during the process. Yet, before the process can be initiated the practitioner and subject pray together to help bring trust and openness to the process. The masseuse, while active in the manipulation of the body, is considered a facilitator of good health. According to underlying beliefs, the body heals itself and the practitioner merely guides the process along.

The importance of body oils
These holistic massages are further enhanced by the use of certain essential oils which are chosen for their exquisite aromas, moisturizing effect and ability to aid the healing process. Hawaii is home to a variety of plant species that have been used to produce hair and body products. The visible beauty of Hawaiian women may be attributed to their use of these natural oils. Some of the more prominent ingredients used to create these essentials oils are Pikake, Macademia, Plumeria, Jojoba, Coconut, Safflower and Kukui Nut. Most of these are found in abundance on the islands. Coconut oil and Macademia nut oil are particularly beneficial to the skin. Coconut oil is one of the best naturally occurring moisturizers.

Its light and fruity smell makes it ideal for the aroma-therapeutic effect needed for an authentic Hawaiian massage. Macademia oil, on the other hand, contains, the beneficial ingredient, palmitoleic acid which has been found to improve skin texture and elasticity. A naturally derived oil is, of course, second to none. A practitioner of either technique will make special allowances for the oil of choice to augment the entire experience.

Nurturing the body through massage may be viewed as simply a leisurely indulgence, however, the undeniable power of these Hawaiian techniques have become world renowned for the effect they produce. At the heart of it all, the Lomilomi remains the most sought after form because of the deeper sense of well-being it offers. Good health emerges from the mind, body and soul, something the early inhabitants of the islands were careful not to overlook.

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