Lomilomi Massage

What is a Lomilomi massage?

A lomilomi massage is a Hawaiian massage that technically translates into “rub rub.” The technique of lomilomi massage is one that breaks up muscle spasms with a special moving of the fingers, therefore relieving much pain.

What is the history of lomilomi massage therapy?

Lomilomi massage does not have a very well documented history, but researchers have been able to piece together some of its history. Lomilomi massage therapy has been part of Hawaiian culture for a long time, but there is no specific date to be found of its beginning. It was practiced by “kahunas,” which is basically the term for medicine man (such as the Native American name “shaman”), and then the techniques were passed on from them. People who learned of the techniques and practiced them would then pass those down to their family members and it continued from generation to generation. Each family had its own method of lomilomi, but every form of lomilomi performed had some sort of religion attached to it. Then, in the early 1900’s a woman named Margaret Machado (often known as “Auntie”) began to make diagrams of her moves and began later teaching the technique to outsiders.

What does a lomilomi massage consist of?

A lomilomi massage incorporates both the physical and spiritual parts of healing. It is based in the awareness of the relationship between man and God, and this must be held first and foremost.

The actual massage treatment consists of a variety of pressure points (similar to Shiatsu) that are manipulated, but the pressure placed on them is not held for as long. Lomilomi is applied directly to muscles in acute or chronic tension, and one of the unique aspects of lomilomi massage is that the practitioner will often use her elbow and forearms for treatment (these take the place of a specially carved stick that used to be used by kahunas to achieve deeper massage).

What are the benefits of lomilomi massage therapy?

Just as with most massages, the most basic benefit that is achieved through lomilomi is the increased circulation throughout the body. This includes blood and lymph circulation, and when the circulation increases, better health and healing are the result. The other most pertinent benefit for patients of lomilomi massage is the spiritual healing that often takes place with a lomilomi treatment.

To experience a truly Hawaiian massage, find a lomilomi practitioner near you and schedule your first appointment today!