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| Kahuna
Bodywork (or Hawaiian Massage, Lomi Lomi) |
Kahuna
bodywork is a healing art originating in Hawaii. There are different forms and
until recently, Kahuna bodywork was only passed down through oral tradition from
one generation in a family to the next.
The word
Kahuna has many meanings, one definition is "Spiritual keeper of knowledge,
priest or shaman and masters of the art".
Traditionally,
Kahuna bodywork was carried out on three consecutive days and often received on
special ceremonial days by Hawaiian royalty. Each day was aimed at restoring balance
and harmony to the client, the first being the physical level, the second day
relating to the emotional self and the last day working at the 'bone level' which
is seen as an opportunity for new growth and spiritual aspects. Today, the average
session lasts approximately two hours.
Kahuna bodywork is a deep
and rhythmical massage. The rhythm is very relaxing and works gently but deeply
into the muscles using continuous flowing strokes. The energy comes from the use
of this rhythm and movement, creating a continuous ebb and flow between the practitioner
and the client. The practitioner uses the forearm, fingers, heel and palm of the
hand in long, flowing movements over the body that bring fresh oxygen to every
cell. Various massage techniques are used to relax the muscles, increase circulation
and break down adhesions and to increase the vibrational rate of the cells of
the body. Acupressure points may also be used, plus warm stone therapy, breathing
techniques, chanting, music, visualisations, herbs and aromas depending on the
lineage of the practitioner.
A main principle of Kahuna
bodywork is to encourage clients to know themselves better by inwardly listening
to their own bodies and experiences and aims to help clients accept their own
body and love themselves. Whilst the technique is an important part of the massage
and associated healing, the practitioner works in harmony with the client with
love and compassion to connect to one's own self-love which is believed to strengthen
the ability to recognise the beauty in our life and surroundings. One of the tenets
of Kahuna bodywork is everything seeks harmony and everything seeks love.
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