Cosmopolitan Spa Therapies
Lomi Lomi:
Also known as a ‘temple style’ massage because it used to be performed only in temples, the Lomi Lomi is in fact more than a massage – it is a way of healing that has its root in ancient Hawaiian traditions. A traditional Lomi Lomi session comprises prayer, fasting and a massage. Traditional Hawaiian healers believed that illness is the result of suppressed emotions, mental disturbances, spiritual disharmony and tension brought about by blocked energy within the body. Thus, restoring health involves physical, emotional and mental healing. Today, a Lomi Lomi session is more associated with a massage, done either by one therapist or two in perfect synchronisation. The massage focuses on dispersing energy blockages by way of moving the palms, thumbs, knuckles and forearms in rhythmic, dance-like motions. The massage has both physical and emotional benefits. It is believed to improve circulation, increase the rate of nutrients brought to the muscles, stimulate the lymphatic system to drain waste products and is especially useful to aid recovery from injuries to the ligaments and tendons. On the emotional front, a Lomi Lomi massage is believed to release you from any anxiety, worry, fear and other negative thoughts.
Warm Stone Massage:
Also known as hot stone massage or la stone therapy, the warm stone massage entails the use of smooth warm stones in long, flowing strokes on your body. The stones are also placed on strategic energy points to ease away tension. These warm stones may also be used in Swedish massages, Lomi Lomi and other traditional massages. In ancient times, the Hawaiians used lava stones in the Lomi Lomi, believing that the heat emitted by the stones would warm the body, relax the muscles and soothe the soul. These smooth volcanic rocks are naturally plentiful in Hawaii and they are believed to enhance therapeutic treatments. In a variation of the warm stone massage, la stone therapy uses smooth stones in contrasting temperatures. The contrast between heat and cold is believed to stimulate relaxation and deep circulation, which will, in turn, stimulate the lymphatic system to detoxify the body. These smooth stones are massaged on the body as in the Lomi Lomi, and are also placed on, under and around strategic points on the body. Typically lasting 90 minutes, the la stone therapy begins with heated stones to relax and relieve muscle tension, followed by cool stones to strengthen the immune system and induce relaxation.
