Lomi Lomi massage, also known as Hawaiian massage, is an ancestral art practiced for generations by native Hawaiians. It is a method of deep relaxation highly prized by massage therapy practitioners. This method evokes the beauty of Aloha, enabling a harmonious connection between body, mind and soul.
Benefits for body and mind
This type of massage offers many benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
- Stress and anxiety relief: The fluid, rhythmic strokes help to bring about deep relaxation.
- Improved blood circulation: Massage stimulates circulation, promoting better oxygenation of cells and efficient elimination of toxins.
- Muscle relaxation: Light to moderate pressure and gentle stretching help loosen tense, aching muscles.
- Improved flexibility and joint mobility: Lomi Lomi massage works on all joints, making them more supple and facilitating their movement.
- Boosting the immune system: By helping to evacuate toxins and reducing stress, massage helps to strengthen the immune system.
- Mental serenity: this massage provides a feeling of inner peace and helps to banish everyday worries.
- Spiritual energy: Lomi Lomi stimulates the flow of energy, known to Hawaiians as “mana”, restoring the balance between body, mind and soul.
Specific techniques and movements
Lomi Lomi is characterized by fluid, continuous movements inspired by the ocean. Practitioners mainly use their forearms, hands, elbows and thumbs to apply pressure and stretch.
Enveloping pressure
One of the main features of this massage is the use of large, fluid, enveloping movements, similar to the coming and going of ocean waves. It is characterized by light to moderate pressure, reaching deep down into the muscles. These are performed with the hands, enveloping the massaged area. It then alternates between effleurage, pressure, kneading, rubbing and caressing to cover the entire body. As previously mentioned, hot stones or other natural elements can also be incorporated to enhance the relaxing and revitalizing effect of the massage. This unique style provides a relaxing, soothing sensation.
Gentle stretching
It also incorporates gentle stretching. These work on joint mobility and flexibility, ensuring complete relaxation.
The connection between masseur and client
Lomi Lomi places particular importance on the connection between the two people. This spiritual and energetic connection helps to achieve an optimal level of relaxation.
Integrating the spiritual dimension
Leomi Lomi has its roots in Hawaiian culture, which places great importance on the connection with nature. Masseurs draw on these beliefs to establish a climate of trust and encourage meditation. They may also practice symbolic rituals such as the use of hot stones or the performance of traditional chants to stimulate energy flow.
Applied techniques
Once the client is ready, the professional uses his or her hands and sometimes even elbows to perform fluid, rhythmic movements, usually starting with the shoulder. He then alternates between effleurage, pressure, kneading, rubbing and caressing. As mentioned above, hot stones or other natural elements can also be incorporated to enhance the relaxing and revitalizing effect of the massage.
Preparation and environment for a successful massage
To reap the full benefits of Hawaiian massage, it’s essential to pay attention to both the preparation and the environment of the room. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a calm, comfortable place: It’s important to feel safe and relaxed during the massage. So make sure you choose a peaceful, pleasant place to enjoy the experience.
- Set the right mood: Subdued lighting, soft music and relaxing scents can greatly enhance the quality of the massage and help you let go.
- Put yourself at ease: Don’t hesitate to inform the masseur of your preferences regarding pressure and areas to be favored or avoided during the massage.
- Communicating during the massage: Good communication between the two people helps to adapt the massage to their specific needs and ensure a genuine moment of well-being.
How a session unfolds
A Lomi Lomi massage generally consists of several stages:
- Welcome and preliminary interview: Communication between masseur and patient is essential to create an atmosphere conducive to letting go. Before starting, the masseur explains the massage procedure and asks a few questions to identify specific expectations. The masseur also takes care to make the patient comfortable on the table, using towels and warm oil.
- Warmingup: The client makes himself comfortable, lies down on the massage table – usually draped – and enjoys the scent of essential oils to relax.
- The massage: Using a variety of specific techniques, the practitioner works on the whole body, including the back, legs and face. Duration varies from 60 to 120 minutes, depending on individual preferences and needs.
Aftercare
Once the massage is over, it’s best to leave the client a few moments to recuperate and fully appreciate the moment. Advice on how to maintain this sensation at home and prevent future tension is also welcome.
Making Lomi Lomi massage part of your wellness routine
Lomi Lomi massage can be practiced regularly to reap its long-term benefits. However, it’s essential to choose a competent professional and establish a relationship of trust with him or her. In addition, it’s important to be attentive to your own feelings and to communicate your expectations in order to fully experience the session.
Lomi Lomi massage is a highly effective technique for promoting overall relaxation. Its holistic approach makes it a must for those who wish to take care of their health and well-being. It’s a unique and profound experience of well-being, in perfect harmony with the universe. Don’t hesitate to treat yourself to a moment of well-being by trying this ancestral method straight from the Hawaiian Islands!
How does a lomi-lomi massage work?
A lomi-lomi massage involves fluid, rhythmic movements using the elbows, forearms and palms to massage all parts of the body, with the aim of harmonizing energy and purifying the body.
What are the contraindications to lomi-lomi massage?
Although lomi-lomi massage is generally soothing, it may not be suitable for everyone. Be sure to consult your physician before making an appointment.
What are the benefits of lomi-lomi massage?
Lomi-lomi massage soothes muscles and joints, brings deep relaxation and stimulates blood and lymph circulation, resulting in a feeling of well-being.
What are the meanings of lomi-lomi terms such as “huna” and “kahuna”?
“Huna” is a Hawaiian term referring to spiritual philosophy, while “kahuna” refers to healers or priests in the Hawaiian tradition, underlining the spiritual and holistic dimension of this massage practice.
What are the traditional elements used in lomi-lomi massage?
Lomi-lomi massage is inspired by the four elements of nature – earth, water, fire and air – to create an energetic and holistic balance, while conveying a sense of exoticism and harmony.
