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Lomi Lomi massage

Massage is praised for its healing properties, and Lomi Lomi massage is believed to be one of the most powerful forms of healing touch.

Lomi Lomi Nui is a Hawaiian "temple-style' bodywork originally practiced by the Ka Hunas (Hawaiian Shamans), and it is based on the Hawaiian healing philosophy know as Huna. Huna's foundations are harmony, peace, abundance, love, interconnectedness and aloha.

It is more than just a relaxing massage and offers an individual spiritual ritual and external cleansing using breath, movement and intention to release anything that blocks the flow of mental health. There are many different types of Hawaiian massage, but the most important characteristic that they all share is the Spirit of Aloha.

What to expect

I was invited for a session by Jean-Pierre Hartmann, a massage therapist at the Jai Yoga Studio. I must admit that I was a bit nervous as I have some issues regarding allowing people into my personal space. Hartman explained more about the massage and therapy techniques.

The techniques used are very different from conventional massage. You lie directly on the vinyl massage table a sarong is placed over the body; it is then folded into a triangle and then placed over strategic positions to maintain modesty.

The therapist used massage oil, in this case coconut oil, and long, flowing strokes up, down, under and over the body. Hands, forearms, elbows are used in deep movements that mimic the ebb and flow of the ocean. Starting from the top of the body and working down to the feet.

Tranquil Hawaiian music is played in the background to enhance the experience.

The verdict

The long, flowing rhythmic movements are gentle and soothing. I was asked to breathe in and out throughout the massage and I truly felt a release of pent up emotions and physical strain that I've been experiencing over the past few months.

Throughout the massage he worked at a faster or slower pace, focusing mainly on my neck and right shoulder which he noted had lots of tension. He applied some pressure to where the tension was located.

At the end of the massage he left me for five minutes to relax. After the massage I felt at ease, I walked back to work with a huge smile on my face - I'm sure the other pedestrians thought I was a bit loony.

I would recommend it to anyone who has lots of pent-up emotion and tension, or even just for a treat.

Expect to pay R320 for a 60 minute session and R400 for a 90 minute session.

(Leandra Engelbrecht, Health24, November 2010)

For more information or to book a session contact:

Jean-Pierre Hartmann: 074 195 1160, email me@jeanpierrehartmann.com or Jai Yoga Reception (021) 418 0974

Sources:

http://www.jeanpierrehartmann.com/hawaiian-massage.html

http://www.lomi.lomi.co.za

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