Hawaiian Healing

Hawaiian Healing

The Hawaiians have held healers in high regard since ancient times, and many of their old traditions still hold sway, even in the fanciest of resort spas. Every spa on the island blends some aspect of local culture and ingredients into its menu, from traditional Hawaiian standbys like lomi lomi massage and kukui (candlenut) oil to lesser-known ancient rituals like opu huli (literally "stomach turn"), an abdominal massage that is great for gastritis, jet lag, or menstrual cramps. There are also Hawaiian versions of popular therapies: imagine a hot stone massage done with lava rocks and warm coconut oil. Following are a few of our favorite Hawaiian healing rituals and the best places to experience them firsthand:

Lomi lomi massage: This traditional form of massage is intended to relieve physical and emotional stress. Our favorite is administered by the kahune (specialists) of the Spa Without Walls at the Fairmont Orchid, on the beach.

Healing waters: For their healing rituals, the ancient Hawaiians often used Coconut Island, in Hilo, because of the restorative powers of its spring waters. You can visit any time for free. On the Kona side of the island, Mamalahoa Hot Tubs provides a slightly more modern experience with luxurious soaks in beautiful wooden tubs.

Laau Lapaau: Ancient Hawaiian herbal medicine is utilized to great effect these days in a number of fine skin treatments, like the Alo Lani treatment at the Four Seasons Spa Hualalai, which includes a warm kukui and coconut back and neck massage and a soothing facial massage treatment utilizing noni juice, known throughout the islands for its healing powers.