LOMI LOMI HAWAIIAN MASSAGE

Lomilomi is usually performed on a massage table. The client strips down to his underwear and lies face down on the mat. The therapist uses hands, forearms and body weight to perform the massage, often with oils. The practitioner will perform long sweeping strokes up and down the full length of the body, and may massage different body parts simultaneously as this brings about greater relaxation. These continuous, rhythmical strokes of varying intensity give the delightful impression of many hands working simultaneously. Lomi lomi is often practiced by more than one therapist at the same time: in this case it is known as "4-hand massage". Note that there is no specific pattern or sequence for this type of massage, therefore two Lomilomi sessions will never be the same.

Lomilomi shares and embraces the holistic approach: according to the ancient Hawaiian philosophy (Huna), when harmony is disrupted, both body and mind are affected and an individual may experience discomfort, physical pain and a state of tension. Lomi lomi aims to help healing by removing energy blockages and encourage energy flow to restore the natural body balance. The benefits of Lomilomi massage are similar to those given by holistic massage such as improved circulation, lymphatic flow and skin elasticity, relaxation, detoxification and sense of well being.

Despite the law of the Kingdom of Hawaii banned curing through "superstitious methods" in 1886, massage was not subject to legislation until 1945. In 1947, the Board of Massage was established to regulate lomilomi and massage. The law required practitioners to pass a written test on anatomy, physiology and massage theory. Many renowned native healers were unable or unwilling to pass the test, and thus lomilomi as restorative massage was forced underground. In 2001, the Legislature passed Act 304, amending HRS section 453, allowing native practitioners to be certified by the Hawaiian medical board, or by the various community health centers. This law is controversial among some native practitioners, but those who are certified can provide lomilomi without fear of prosecution under Hawaii state law. (Chai 2005) - Source:Wikipedia