Shamanic bodywork training is not going to bulk up your biceps or burn off unwanted calories. Rather, it is a form of holistic healing that works on multiple levels. Founded by Wayne Kealohi Powell in 1977, shamanic bodywork is designed to increase physical and spiritual energy. The healing practice is rooted in ancient Hawaiian culture and begins with a body tune-up. Two forms of therapeutic massage -- Lomi Lomi and Kahi Loa -- follow the body tune-up. Kalana Hula, a form of ancient island dance and martial arts, is another key component of shamanic bodywork training.
Body Tune-Up
In shamanic bodywork training, there are two steps in the body tune-up process. The first is understanding the importance of positive energy flow throughout the body. Shamanic bodywork training strives to eliminate mental and physical stress built by toxins in the body. The belief is the toxins can be flushed out through the natural flow of the life cycle. That flow is stress, tension, relaxation and release. The second step stresses relaxation and release through mental awareness, universal breathing and a full alignment of the skeletal structure via applied kinesiology.
Lomi Lomi
Lomi Lomi is a traditional Hawaiian massage designed to rid the body of physical and mental stress. Performed by a practitioner, Lomi Lomi typically begins with a prayer seeking healing. The practitioner uses rhythmic strokes with the hands, forearms and elbows. Lomi Lomi translates to "remove what doesn't belong." Lomi Lomi was performed originally as a rite of passage to initiate a young man or woman into adulthood. Shamanic bodywork training strives to awaken self-realization during the Lomi Lomi phase.
Kahi Loa
In shamanic bodywork training, the Kahi Loa massage summons the healing power of fire, water, wind, stone, plants, animals and humans. Also known as the "Magic Touch" massage, the Kahi Loa differs from the Lomi Lomi massage. Instead of massaging the muscles and skeletal structure like Lomi Lomi, Kahi Loa practitioners gently massage the skin to promote healing and wellness.
Kalana Hula
In shamanic bodywork training, the Kalana Hula focuses on movement while using lua, a Hawaiian martial art, and the popular hula dance. Breathing, movement and self-awareness are emphasized in this portion of the training. You connect with the past and the present environments during the Kalana Hula, which also is known as the Energy Dance.
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