The Seven Hawaiian Principles

by Lomi Kumu Dennis Stovall, LMT, NCBTMB

The seven Hawaiian principles of Huna are deceptively simple in expressing profound truths about the world in which we live. One word, expanded to one phrase and overflowing with meaning. Part of becoming a successful Lomi Lomi practitioner is understanding the depths behind these simple principles.  

  IKE - The world is what you think it is. Be aware.

We all know people who live with an apparent curse on them. Whatever started the cycle, they seem to move from crisis to tragedy to emergency and back again. They have come to expect this cycle in their lives, consciously or unconsciously. On the other hand, a classmate may have a habit of winning every competition and shining at every moment. He expects to succeed, and he does. How can you set the expectation within yourself to succeed, learn and grow?  

  KALA - There are no limits. Be free.

There is an old expression, "Whether you think you can or you can't, you're right." When you limit yourself to living a certain way because that was how you were raised or you do not allow yourself to learn a new skill because you think you are too old, or it's too difficult, you are limiting yourself. No one else can do that. Choose not to limit yourself.  

 MAKIA - Energy flows where attention goes. Be focused.

Despite all the buzz about the prevalence of multi-tasking in our lives, if you think honestly about it, none of us are truly efficient when multi-tasking. You can perhaps filter multiple streams of information at the same time. But, to truly accomplish something to the best of your ability, you must be fully engaged. Geniuses throughout history have often been borderline autistic or at least "eccentric." Whatever they fixated on got their full attention, resulting in remarkable accomplishments. How can you harness this kind of focus for yourself?  

  MANAWA - Now is the moment of power. Be here.

We spend too much of our time second-guessing past decisions and idealizing the future. Setting goals and making plans is one thing. Living in a yet-to-be realized future is another. Plan and visualize the future you want for yourself, but live now. How can you exert yourself now to build the future you desire?  

  ALOHA - To love is to be happy with. Be happy.

How many times have you found yourself wishing a loved one was just a little bit different in this one wa, or maybe just two or three little ways? How about yourself? Have you ever wanted to be blonder, thinner, smarter, more outgoing, etc? Why? To be more like someone else? To better match a societal "ideal"? Why? Treasure what makes each of us different. The world would be a very dull place if we were all the same. 

   MANA - All power comes from within. Be confident.

We create and perfect ourselves by choosing who we want to be. If you want to learn and grow, study, practice, explore mentally, physically, spiritually. As you connect more with yourself and the world around you, the strength you have within becomes more apparent. Don't doubt yourself; know yourself.  

  PONO - Effectiveness is the measure of truth. Be positive.

If you have ever attended an event out of a sense of obligation, you know how exhausting it is to paste on a smile and mingle. On the other hand, occupy yourself with something you truly love and time flies, energy abounds. To achieve amazing things, do what you love.