Experience the Art of Lomi Lomi Hawaiian Bodywork
What is Lomi Lomi?
Rooted in ancient Hawaiian tradition, Lomi Lomi is more than just massage—it’s a deeply rejuvenating and flowing bodywork technique designed to restore balance, release tension, and promote overall well-being. ‘Lomi Lomi’ means ‘to rub or to knead’ in the Hawaiian (Polynesian) language and it is a beautiful form of bodywork which is energetically vibrant yet deeply relaxing. It is a full body oil-based massage in which the practitioner uses hands and forearms in long fluid strokes of varying intensity and rhythm up, down and around the body. The massage has a unique flowing style, working to nurture the body and mind, balancing emotions, as well as releasing tension through gentle wave-like motions.
The Lomi Lomi Massage techniques incorporate joint mobilisations and gentle stretching movements which stimulate the energetic and circulatory flow, synchronising breath and heartbeat. This provides a nurturing space for body, mind and spirit to establish a deep connection to the still centre of revitalising energy.
What will you Learn in the 2 -Day Lomi Lomi Workshop?
At the heart of Lomi Lomi lies the 7 Principles of Huna, the foundational wisdom of traditional Hawaiian healing. These principles shape not just a technique, but a holistic approach that blends movement, breath, and intention to create a deeply immersive experience. Like Yoga or Tai Chi, Lomi Lomi encourages us to quiet the mind, synchronise movement with purpose, and cultivate flow, allowing both practitioner and client to connect in a rhythmic, healing dance. Through this practice, we create a safe and nurturing space, supporting each client on their unique journey to balance and well-being.
In this workshop we will explore the 7 Principles of Huna and their practical application:
- IKE – The world is what you think it is – I am Aware
- KALA – There are no limits – I am Free
- MAKIA – Energy flows where attention goes – I am Focused
- MANAWA – Now is the moment of power – I am Here
- ALOHA – To love is to be happy with – I am Happy
- MANA – All power comes from within – I am Confident
- PONO – Effectiveness is the measure of truth – I am Positive
The benefits in providing Lomi Lomi are felt, not only in the bodywork we offer to our clients, but also in ourselves. In this workshop we will learn specific Huna dance patterns embodying deep ancestral movements, that open-up the body energetically and physically. In applying these patterned movement phrases in alternating rhythmic sequences we can sink into a flow of Lomi Lomi responsive to the needs of our clients. We learn phrased movement sequences which include:
- Back strokes in prone – Flowing from the back down the legs and back up the arms, incorporating shoulder mobilisations and stretches.
- Leg strokes in prone – Addressing the hips, knees, and ankles, moving fluidly through the back and arms.
- Leg strokes in supine – Integrating strokes from the legs to the abdomen, chest, and arms.
- Underbody techniques in supine (legs & back) – Engaging hip, knee, and spinal mobilisation while working beneath the body.
- Underbody techniques for the arms and neck – Incorporating gentle mobilisation and stretching for deep relaxation.
Beyond mastering the Lomi Lomi techniques, we will also learn preparatory exercises that open the heart, focus the mind, set our intention, and respectfully engage and disengage with our clients in a safe way. This will involve movement, breath, visualisation and vocalisation activities that engage the body, mind and spirit. It is important that you are willing to engage in these preparatory practices with an open heart and mind. In this way we will be able to better assess client needs, plan and negotiate a treatment plan prior to delivering our Lomi Lomi Massage.
Who will be your Trainer?
Theo Coulthard has Bachelor degrees in both Arts (Anthropology) and Science (Biochemistry) from the Australian National University (ANU). His qualifications in bodywork include a Diploma of Remedial Massage and Diploma of Health Science (Eastern Massage) from the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT). He has skills in the application of Remedial Massage, Shiatsu, Tuina (Chinese Acupressure) and Ka Huna Temple-style Lomi Lomi training privately with Mette Sorensen through Mette’s Institute located on the Sunshine Coast. Mette has trained with lineage holders in the Hawaiian tradition.
Theo has been working at ACFB since 2011 as a Trainer and Assessor within the Massage Department as well as continuing to work in private practice. He also regularly practices Tai Chi and Buddhist Meditation.
What do you need to bring?
- A pen and paper
- One dark coloured single bed sheet, one large bath sheet sized towel and two hand towels
- Preferred underwear is briefs or G-string. NO BOXER SHORTS PLEASE! Everyone should feel comfortable; underwear will be worn at all times and modesty maintained with appropriate draping but Lomi Lomi is best performed with continuous strokes working large areas of the body simultaneously with minimal restriction.
- A respectful open attitude, willingness to learn and sense of fun!
We will provide you with an oil bottle and oil for use on the day.
You will also provide you with access to online resources including a workbook and films demonstrating the Lomi Lomi strokes, sequences and preparatory exercises.
Workshop details:
- Location: 263 Maroondah Hwy, Ringwood, Victoria, 3134
- Duration: Two (2) Days; 9:00am to 5:00pm
- Dates: 14th and 15th of June
- Cost: $460
- PE Points (AAMT): 20 points
- Seats: Only 12 Seats Available – please book early
