A journey to healing body and mind
I’ve been thinking a lot about healing lately. I’ve been on my own personal healing journey the last five years. Longer than that really, but very intentionally the last five years. It felt overwhelming at first, mostly because I didn’t know where to start.
I’ve had to really think about what healing actually means, and can someone be “healed.” I’ve realized lately that healing may not be a destination – or somewhere we arrive after doing a certain amount of work. It’s a journey. A journey in finding people and resources that are right for you and what you need.
That may be different for every one person. The journey that works for me, may look different for others.
Massage and loving touch has been an important part of my journey of healing. You might think as a massage therapist, that’s why I decided to go into the profession. But, it was the discovery of how massage brings healing through touch, that I learned through my experience becoming one.
Stress and trauma are at the forefront of everything right now. There’s an interest and curiosity like I’ve not seen before. I think it’s a good thing, because with all the chatter, comes so many different resources.
I discovered Lomi Lomi last year, and fell in love. The thoughtfulness and nurturing that this type of massage brings is incredible. Then recently I decided I wanted to do more than just admire it from afar, but also learn to give it.
The quest for healing and relaxation has led so many to seek out various forms of therapy and alternative medicine, one of which is the ancient practice of this Hawaiian massage.
Rooted in the rich traditions of the Hawaiian Islands, Lomi Lomi not only offers a luxurious and rejuvenating experience but also holds the potential to support trauma recovery and promote holistic healing.
Let’s explore the origins and history of Lomi Lomi, its numerous benefits, and what to expect during a session, with a particular focus on how it aids in healing both the body and mind, especially in the context of trauma recovery.
Origins and History
Lomi Lomi, often referred to as “loving hands” massage, has its roots deeply embedded in the spiritual and cultural practices of the Hawaiian Islands. The ancient art of healing and bodywork dates back centuries, and its history is intertwined with the Hawaiian people’s connection to their land, nature and spirituality.
Ancient Hawaiian Traditions: Lomi Lomi’s origins can be traced back to Polynesians settlers who brought their own unique healing practices to the islands. Over time, these practices fused with the native Hawaiian culture, resulting in the birth of Lomi Lomi. In traditional Hawaiian philosophy, the body, mind, and spirit are considered interconnected, and this holistic view is at the core of Lomi Lomi massage.
Kahuna Bodywork: Lomi Lomi was traditionally practiced by the Kahunas, the wise and highly respected Hawaiian priests and healers. These skilled practitioners used Lomi Lomi as a sacred ritual to not only heal physical ailments but also to address emotional and spiritual imbalances within the individual.
Huna Philosophy: Lomi Lomi is deeply influenced by the Huna philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in all aspects of life. Huna teaches that healing occurs when we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of the universe, a concept reflected in the flowing, dance-like movements of Lomi Lomi massage.
Benefits of Lomi Lomi Hawaiian Massage
Lomi Lomi is renowned for its myriad of benefits, which extend far beyond physical relaxation. Here are some of the key advantages:
Physical Relaxation and Pain Relief: Lomi Lomi involves long, sweeping strokes, gentle stretches, and the application of varying degrees of pressure, making it highly effective for relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and alleviating physical pain.
Emotional Release: The nurturing touch and rhythmic movements of Lomi Lomi can facilitate the release of stored emotional stress and trauma. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals seeking to address past emotional wounds.
Improved Circulation: The massage techniques used in Lomi Lomi stimulate blood and lymph flow, helping to detoxify the body and enhance overall health.
Enhance Flexibility: The stretches and joint rotations in Lomi Lomi massage promote increased flexibility and range of motion, which can be particularly beneficial for athletes and those with mobility issues.
Stress Reduction: Lomi Lomi’s soothing and nurturing qualities can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Spiritual Connection: For some, Lomi Lomi is a deeply spiritual experience that can help individuals connect with their inner selves, explore their spirituality, and achieve a greater sense of purpose.
What To Expect During a Lomi Lomi Session
A Lomi Lomi session is a unique and immersive experience that goes beyond the typical massage you might be familiar with. Here’s what you can expect during a typical session:
A Welcoming Atmosphere: Lomi Lomi sessions are often conducted in a tranquil and spiritually charged environment. The room may be softly lit, and soothing Hawaiin music may be playing to create a serene atmosphere.
A Personal Connection: Your Lomi Lomi practitioner will start by establishing a personal connection with you, often through a brief conversation about your intentions and any specific concerns you may have.
Undressing and Draping: You’ll be asked to undress to your comfort level and lie down on a comfortable massage table. You’ll be draped with a sheet and a towel for modesty. A sarong is typically used for draping.
Flowing Movements: Lomi Lomi is characterized by continuous, flowing movement that mimic the ebb and flow of the ocean. The practitioner will use their forearms, palms, and fingers to perform long, sweeping strokes, sometimes simultaneously on different parts of the body.
Stretching and Mobilization: Lomi Lomi often includes gentle stretching and joint mobilization, helping to increase flexibility and release tension.
Oil Application: A warm, soothing oil, often infused with healing herbs or scents, is used during the massage to reduce friction and enhance relaxation.
Breathwork: Lomi Lomi may incorporate breathwork, and deep breathing techniques to help you relax and release tension.
Intuitive Touch: Lomi Lomi therapists are highly attuned to the needs of their clients and often use their intuition to guide the massage. This means that each session is uniquely tailored to the individual.
Emotional Release: It’s not uncommon for clients to experience emotional release during a Lomi Lomi session. This can manifest as tears, laughter, or deep emotions coming to the surface. The practitioner will hold a safe and supportive space for this process.
Closing: After the massage is complete, there is often a closing blessing to seal the healing energy of the session and express gratitude.
Healing the Body and Mind
Lomi Lomi is renowned for its ability to promote healing, both physically and emotionally. Here’s how it achieves this:
Releasing Physical Tension: The massage techniques used in Lomi Lomi effectively release physical tension, whether it’s due to stress, poor posture, or muscle imbalances. This physical release can help alleviate chronic pain and discomfort.
Emotional Release: Lomi Lomi’s gentle and nurturing touch can coax emotional tension and trauma from the body. By creating a safe space for emotions to surface, individuals can begin the process of healing from past emotional wounds.
Balancing Energy: In Hawaiian culture, it’s believed that imbalances in the body’s energy can lead to physical and emotional ailments. Lomi Lomi is thought to help rebalance this energy by promoting overall health and well-being.
Enhance Mind- Body Connection: Through its flowing and rhythmic movements, Lomi Lomi encourages individuals to reconnect with their bodies and become more aware of physical sensation. This enhanced mind-body connection can aid in self-awareness and self-healing.
Supporting Trauma Recovery
Lomi Lomi massage has gained recognition as a valuable tool in trauma recovery and therapy. Trauma, whether from a single traumatic event or ongoing stress and adversity, can become stored in the body, leading to physical and emotional distress. Here’s how Lomi Lomi can support trauma work:
Safe Space for Healing: Lomi Lomi therapists are trained to create safe and non-judgemental space for clients to explore their emotions and release trauma. This supportive environment can be instrumental in trauma recovery.
Emotional Release: As mentioned earlier, Lomi Lomi often facilitates emotional release. For individuals working through trauma, this can be a vital part of the healing process, allowing them to express and process long-held emotions.
Body Memory: Trauma can be stored in the body’s tissues and musculature. Lomi Lomi’s techniques help release tension and stagnation in these areas, potentially aiding in the release of traumatic memories and physical discomfort associated with trauma.
Self-Care and Self-Compassion: Trauma can disrupt an individual’s sense of self and self-worth. Lomi Lomi promotes self-care and self-compassion, helping clients reconnect with themselves in a positive way.
Lomi Lomi Hawaiian Massage is a remarkable blend of ancient wisdom, cultural heritage, and holistic healing. Its origins in Hawaiian traditions and its ability to provide physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits make it a unique and powerful therapeutic modality.
As we navigate the challenges of modern life, the need for practices that promote healing and trauma healing is greater than ever, and Lomi Lomi offers a path to both relaxation, and self-discovery. Whether you seek relief from physical tension, emotional healing, or support in your trauma healing journey, Lomi Lomi can be a loving and transformative experience that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit.
