03. Why Lomilomi Was Part of Daily Life in Hawaiʻi

Lomilomi was woven into the fabric of daily life in Hawaiʻi. Everyone learned it from childhood (and I did too) because it was essential for community wellbeing, survival, and personal health.

Family and ʻOhana

Lomilomi was traditionally taught within families. Each ʻohana had slightly different methods, but the core principles — working with Spirit first, followed by mind and body integration — were consistent.

Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Resilience

Daily life involved hard physical work, hula, sometimes war, and other practices that required strength and endurance. Lomilomi maintained this balance, helping bodies remain flexible, minds remain clear, and Spirit remain connected to everything.

Emotional and Social Harmony

Beyond the physical, Lomilomi also nurtured emotional balance and relationship harmony. It was part of a larger system that allowed people to manage conflict, resolve tension, and maintain strong family and community bonds. It makes sense - when you feel good, everything aligns, flows and feels good..