ALOHA THERAPY
From sacred springs and healing lomilomi massages to a bounty of fresh local food, Hawaii welcomes all those seeking balance, good health and relaxation.
Is there something special in the water? Spiritual healers and local Indigenous storytellers in Hawaii believe there is. Passing down wisdom from generation to generation, they contend the islands of Hawaii are energetically charged in a special way that promotes wellness and healing. Perhaps it’s as simple as the beauty of island life: fresh air, fresh food, the sound of the waves, the welcoming spirit of aloha. Call it the glow-on effect.
“If you pay attention, you can feel the vibration and healing energy of the land and water beneath your feet here,” says Kamala Nayeli, Director of Spa & Wellness at Halekulani and Halepuna Waikiki.
Nayeli is talking about the waterfront land where the luxury sister hotels are located, each hotel special and sacred in its own way. The beach in front of Halekulani (in Hawaiian, it means ‘House Befitting Heaven’) has long been considered a sacred healing zone, a place where fresh water from the mountains flows underneath the property and out to merge with the sea. It’s known as Kawehewehe. Nayeli says generations of Hawaiians have collected this water to use for blessings, celebrations and healing rituals. A few steps away, on the grounds of Halepuna Waikiki, nobility once gathered to bathe in the waters, swimming in warm natural springs to heal their minds, bodies and souls.
RECONNECT AND RENEW
Today, Halekulani and Halepuna Waikiki welcome guests with a reimagined experience, inviting them to reconnect with their senses in a sacred place that promotes wellness. From glorious farm-to-table non-GMO food to restorative yoga overlooking the beach, everything is designed to maximise rejuvenation and robust health. A curated programme of added-value experiences and workshops, Art of Wellbeing, includes immersive sessions on astrology, feng shui, mindful eating and acupuncture. Guests who time their visit to coincide with workshops by ‘visiting masters’ enjoy complimentary access to acclaimed practitioners from around the world, who normally have monthslong waitlists.
Most recently, internationally renowned sound therapist Michelle Pirret guided guests on a vibrational healing journey.
“Benefits of sound therapy include improved sleep and jetlag recovery, reduction in stress, anxiety and depression, increased work productivity, and deeper connection to one’s intuition and higher self,” Nayeli says.
Focusing on six key pillars – Nourish, Move, Explore, Renew, Rest, and Discover – Halekulani offers opportunities and sophisticated choices for wellbeing on a holistic level. That includes nourishing beachfront dining (Halekulani was
“HULA TELLS A STORY OF LOVE.” KAMALA NAYELI
one of the first resorts in the US to offer non-GMO foods), bodywork, acupuncture and a turndown tea service. It also encompasses a celebration of local culture ranging from access to the best historic sites on Oahu to surfing tuition at the water’s edge.
“Surfing isn’t just sport for Hawaiians, it’s a beloved tradition and deep part of the culture,” Nayeli says.
This year, when the new 5-star SpaHalekulani opens, it’s predicted to top the ‘world’s best’ lists.
Until then, there’s plenty to enjoy at the resorts, including nightly hula performances by former Miss Hawaii winners of all ages at open-air restaurant, House Without a Key.
“I’m convinced hula is the key to longevity,” Nayeli says.
“In a way it’s like tai chi, but more fluid and rhythmic, telling a beautiful story of love.
“It’s certainly one way to stay active and live well to a ripe age.”