What is lomilomi?
Lomilomi is one of the most ancient, sacred art forms in Hawaiian Medicine. Although lomilomi is commonly recognized as a massage, to Hawaiians, lomilomi is much more. Lomilomi is a spiritual ceremony that opens up the physical body to allow more of the person’s spirit’s energy to shine through, therefore, increasing their ability to walk out their life’s purpose. Lomilomi is a way of showing reverence for the body by connecting with the spirit of aloha- the breath and unconditional love of Spirit. Lomilomi restores the body’s natural state of relaxation by reminding it how to release stuck energy. Lomilomi teaches the receiver and giver both how to live in a state of aloha where the energy of Spirit moves through the body with ease and grace. I combine lomilomi with the practice of ‘Ili’ili, or stone massage:
“This is a therapeutic practice used in traditional Hawaiian healing. Smooth, heated stones are placed on specific points of the body to promote relaxation, relieve tension, and encourage the free flow of energy. The stones are…believed to facilitate the release of stagnant energy and restore balance. ‘Ili’ili is a deeply grounding and rejuvenating practice.”
From Waikiki Today
How is this different from a massage by an RMT?
Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) work to relieve pain and tension; they are a valuable resource and are often covered by medical plans. Lomilomi is not yet recognized on medical plans in Canada. One RMT who came for a session said she’d never experienced anything like that in her life. She said that RMTs are trained to relieve pain but lomilomi has the potential to get to the heart of what is creating the pain in the body and release it with awareness of the client.
What can I expect in a session?
Well, with spiritual ceremonies, we can expect the unexpected! Every session is different. Every person is different. The lomilomi practitioner’s job is to listen to what is needed with her spirit, body, and heart and let the Divine move though and do the work. Auntie Margaret used to say, “Lomilomi is praying work.” Unlike a regular massage session, there is prayer, singing, and other ceremonial aspects woven into each session.
To learn more about lomilomi check these resources out:
Ke Ola article: Traditional Hawaiian Lomilomi is Alive and Well by Nancy Kahalewai
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