Venues offering Lomi Lomi Massage

Lomi lomi massage (Hawaiian massage) is a full-body massage of Hawaiian origin, based on long, unbroken movements made with the forearms as well as the hands. The movements flow from one area to the next without a break and are often likened to the rhythm of the waves. The form offered in spas is the traditional Hawaiian practice adapted into a relaxation massage given with plenty of oil.

How is lomi lomi massage done?

The name lomi lomi comes from the Hawaiian word lomi, meaning to rub and to knead. The massage is given on a massage table, usually starting face down and continuing face up. The therapist uses plenty of warm oil and glides the forearms along the back, sometimes in long lines running from the shoulder to the heel. Unlike in classic massages, each area is not finished separately; the back, hips and legs may be worked together in a single flow. Movements in which the joints are gently stretched and the body is lightly rocked may also be part of the session.

So that the long movements can continue without interruption, the draping may differ from that of a classic massage. The level of pressure is discussed at the start of the session and adjusted on request from light to medium.

Duration

60-90 minutes is usual for lomi lomi massage. Because it takes time for the movements to travel in a connected way across the whole body, shorter sessions may not fully reflect the character of this massage. Since oil will remain on your skin after the session, planning ahead for a shower and for what you will do afterwards makes things easier.

Who is it for, and who should avoid it?

Lomi lomi massage suits those who want to relax with a flowing, rhythmic massage and those who have tried classic massage and are looking for a different pace. It is not designed for a specific pain or injury; for localised and chronic tension, a targeted massage such as deep tissue massage may be more suitable. If you are uneasy about the draping or the generous use of oil, Thai massage or reflexology, which are done clothed, are options in which you may feel more at ease.

Lomi lomi massage is not given, or a doctor's approval is needed first, in cases of illness with fever, an open wound or infection on the skin, a history of thrombosis, recent surgery and uncontrolled blood pressure. If you have cardiovascular disease, consult your doctor first. In pregnancy, the face-down position and long movements that travel over the whole body may not be suitable; with your doctor's approval, a pregnancy massage adapted to pregnancy is the better choice. Some venues may use nut-based oils, so if you have a hazelnut or peanut allergy, mention it when making your appointment.

How it differs from similar massages

Lomi lomi massage is close to other relaxation massages in its use of oil and its pressure; what sets it apart is the use of the forearms and the flow that moves between areas without a pause.

If you are not sure which massage suits you, the guide to massage types can be a starting point for comparison.

Questions to ask before your appointment

When making an appointment for lomi lomi massage, asking the following makes it easier to choose a session that matches what you expect:

• Is the technique really lomi lomi, or is the name being used for a different oil massage?
• How many minutes does the session last, and which areas does it cover?
• What is in the oil, and can it be changed if you have an allergy?
• Can you choose the therapist's gender?
• Is use of the shower and relaxation area included in the price?