Traveler Magazine Andrew Harper Traveler Summer 2019 | Page 21

19
Natural
Healing
PHOTOS
L E F T:
H AWA I I A N
HULA
DANCER
R I G H T:
COCONUT
S E AT S A LT
LOMILOMI
MASSAGE
BOTTOM:
H AWA I I
VOLCANOES
N AT U R A L
PA R K
ANDREWHARPERTRAVEL.COM
Hawaiians were practicing mind-body
wholeness long before wellness retreats were
in vogue, and sustainability was a trend before
we even knew the earth was in peril. The
spirit of “Aloha” is said to be the unification
of mind and heart within each person, and
the polytheistic, animistic roots of Hawaiians’
indigenous religion means that reverence for
the planet and all beings has carried over to
modern day. Hawaii’s healing properties have
attracted peace-seeking travelers of the ‘Eat,
Pray, Love’ variety for some time.
The aptly named Lomi Lomi (“Loving
Hands”) massages have become popular with
visitors, but the ancient roots of the Polynesian
healing practice involve exorcizing the spirits
of possessed individuals, along with aiding the
digestion of chiefs. Natural healing experts
still sing the praises of the unique technique
of restoring harmony to the body and soul by
massaging different parts of the body at the
same time. Relaxing signature Lomi Lomi
massages at Honolulu’s Halekulani hotel
employ oil of the kukui nut for 80 minutes of
blissful bodywork.
Explore a further spiritual connection by
visiting Hawaiian sacred sites. The Puu Loa
Petroglyphs inside Hawaii Volcanoes Natural
Park have been active for thousands of years,
with pilgrims burying umbilical cords in the
ground to ensure success for their children.
Or visit the last major temple in Hawaii at
Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site—it
symbolizes the unification of the islands. And
connect with ancient Hawaiian royalty at the
O’ahu site of the Kukaniloko Birthstones, a
1,000-year-old birthing site that holds 200
sacred boulders.
Hawaii is a paradise with many of its
customs and culture generalized in popular
media. But appreciating the rich history
behind the Hawaiian way of life offers its
guests a deeper experience beyond pristine
beaches and breathtaking vistas.
SUMMER | 2019