Lomi Lomi Nui Massage, A Philosophy of Life

The Lomi Lomi Nui massage at Bota Bota has garnered many followers among the massage therapists on board. According to Esteban L., massage therapist since 2016, “Lomi Lomi Nui is a philosophy of life, a sacred message.”

A Holistic DNA

Characterized by its broad, flowing movements, Lomi Lomi Nui originates from Hawaii. Traditionally, this technique was taught and practiced by local master healers under the “HUNA” philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of internal and external harmony, a holistic way of understanding the world within us and the one blooming outside.

One unique aspect of this massage is the vinyl sheet used during the session, which allows the recipient to experience a new dimension of massage, as movements can be applied both above and below the body simultaneously, offering a unique variety of sensations.

The purpose of Lomi Lomi Nui is, among other things, to relieve stress while focusing on the body’s different energies. To aid in this release, the massage therapist uses various maneuvers, particularly with their forearms, elbows, and hands.

Techniques like acupressure, stretching, rotation, and kneading are employed to soothe muscular tension and harmonize energy. The movements are sometimes gentle, sometimes rhythmic, but always practiced with fluidity and continuity. Like a choreography, a sensation of waves, this moment breaks with daily habits.

Esteban speaks highly of this special massage, which he loves to perform. “There is rhythm, intensity; the therapist listens to everything. It’s a massage of the soul, beyond the physical.”

The Three Pillars of Lomi Lomi Nui

Kindness, presence, and unconditional love are the three pillars of the Lomi Lomi Nui massage, according to Esteban.

“[The Lomi Lomi Nui] taught me that it’s very important to have the best intentions for your client,” he explains. Any massage is a moment that requires a certain level of vulnerability, and this one especially so. Kindness lays the foundation for a successful massage.

The (mental) presence of the massage therapist is also very important. Their full attention must be dedicated to the client and focused on their body as well as their non-verbal reactions. “We block out everything else,” Esteban specifies.

“To love a stranger is special. Meeting someone and deciding to give them your all, no matter who they are or their attitude…nothing should stand in the way of that impulse,” he continues. Offering the Lomi Lomi Nui massage is about connecting deeply with the client and demonstrating great care and attentiveness.

“These three points are interrelated. They helped me understand why I am a therapist. It allowed me to put words to a philosophy I’ve wanted to follow for a long time,” Esteban confides.

A Matter of Rhythm and Perspective

One unique aspect of the Lomi Lomi Nui massage is the draping, which differs from more conventional massages. This draping is lighter than usual, covering only the intimate parts of the body, with the utmost respect for the person being massaged.

“This massage is for everyone; you just need to be aware of what to expect,” explains Esteban. Any massage requires a certain degree of vulnerability, whether mental or physical, and Lomi Lomi Nui requires a bit more.

“It’s a massage that truly requires letting go. You must be ready to let down your guard and trust the therapist,” Esteban continues. Therapists practicing this technique are attentive and know how to recognize each person’s limits. “Some aren’t ready or open to receiving what they’re offered. We must respect their rhythm.”