Going for a full body massage has always been a crowd-favorite in many massage clinics. It is a treatment that clients always look forward to receiving because of its relaxing and calming effects. If you want a massage that heals, restores, and soothes your body, you should try Hawaii’s traditional Lomi Lomi massage. Here is everything you need to know about it!

What Is a Lomi Lomi Massage? 

The word ‘lomi lomi’ literally means ‘rub rub’ in the Hawaiian language. This technique is also known as the ‘loving hands’ massage and has been handed down through generations of Hawaiian families. It is a combination of long seamless massage strokes with oils, and it features elements of singing, breathing, and sometimes dancing. 

Broad, flowing strokes are performed by the therapist with their fingers, thumbs, knuckles, palms, arms, elbows, knees, and feet. Sticks and stones are also used in very traditional sessions, in Hawaii. It can be performed with or without emollient, but most of the time, they use oils from coconut, palm, and macadamia to make each stroke relaxing and nourishing for the skin. 

The History of Lomi Lomi Massage

Hawaii’s tourism efforts popularized the Lomi Lomi massage, but it is a practice that is also observed in neighboring Polynesian islands, such as Tahiti, Samoa, Tokelau, and French Polynesia. 

It was said that the early Polynesian settlers brought this technique to Hawaii, and it eventually evolved until it grew into a uniquely Hawaiian style. Other neighboring islands also practice and cultivate their versions of Lomi Lomi. 

When American missionaries arrived on the islands in 1820, the native Hawaiian healing technique went underground because of prohibitions. However, it is now popular among residents and visitors. 

How Lomi Lomi Can Help You

The purpose of the massage is to restore the spiritual and personal energy in one’s body and soothe it. It is also beneficial for many ailments, such as aiding digestion. In Hawaii, it is used to treat children with upset stomachs. It is also a technique used to help women in labor.  

This practice is believed to provide the following benefits to the body:

  • It can help the body release any form of tension. It can loosen tight joints and muscles, stretch connective tissues, and relieve you from cramps and muscle spasms.
  • It can provide your body with a sense of rejuvenation.
  • It can assist with your body’s blood and lymph flow.
  • It can effectively eliminate waste and other toxins. 
  • It can provide a sense of peace and enhance one’s overall wellbeing.

Keep in mind that in this practice, the therapists do not heal the patients themselves. They only serve as a medium for healing to take place. 

What You Should Know Before Trying Lomi Lomi Massage

What to Do: Inform your therapist about your medical history before your treatment begins, or even before you set an appointment. It is important to notify them if you are pregnant or expecting.  

What Not to Do: Like other massages, avoid eating heavy meals, or drinking alcohol before your scheduled therapy. 

What to Wear: The massage technique requires you not to wear too much. Inquire with your selected massage clinic as to what the allowed attire is.

On Scheduling: Because of the use of oil all over your body, you might not want to schedule any meetings after your treatment. Clearing your after-treatment schedule will also help you enjoy the post-massage bliss longer. 

 

Conclusion

If you enjoy the experience of different massages, Hawaii’s traditional massage should not be left out of your list. Lomi Lomi massage is a rejuvenating and healing massage that is getting popular nowadays for a reason. It is an excellent massage therapy that can relieve you from any type of strain and muscle tension. 

Are you interested in trying the Lomi Lomi massage therapy in Edmonton? At Therapeutic Body Concepts, we offer a 60-minute and 90-minute Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage and other massage services. Contact us today to book an appointment.