Lomi lomi is a traditional Hawaiian massage that uses a combination of massage techniques, sometimes elements of prayer, breathing and soothe the body. It is also known as the ‘loving hands’ massage. This name helps to explain its principles – the massage works gently yet deeply into the muscles with continuous, flowing strokes, allowing the recipient to relax and give in to the nurturing touch.
Lomi lomi works from the belief that memories are not just stored in the brain and mind, but also in every cell of the human body. The long, continuous strokes of the massage are designed to help the body let go of its old patterns and behaviours, which can cause as many stresses and strains as muscle tension.
‘Lomi lomi’ translates to ‘rub rub’ in Hawaiian, and reflects the broad, flowing strokes made with the therapist’s fingers, thumbs, palms, arms and elbows.
What is lomi lomi massage good for?
Lomi lomi aims to treat the body and mind as one whole being. It is thought to:
release tension
assist blood and lymph flow
eliminate waste and stimulate toxins
rejuvenate the body
instil a sense of peace, harmony and wellbeing.
In Hawaii, lomi lomi is used to treat children with upset stomachs and soothe women in labour. A lomi lomi therapist will not aim to heal themselves, but to be the facilitator for healing – to enable healing to take place.
