Kauai: A Healthy Dose of Paradise

Lihue, Kauai -- The ancient Hawaiians believed that healing came through treating the whole person. The kahuna lapa'au, the doctors, employed an amazing stock of medicinal products gathered from land and sea; they talked with the patient about how he or she lived, and what their family situation was like. The kahuna might use one of several massage techniques, prescribe a body wrap of medicinal leaves or recommend therapeutic ocean bathing, and they prayed. They always acknowledged that they were only instruments in the hands of the Divine Physician.

Kauai, the oldest major island in the Hawaiian chain, and the one that probably looks the closest to the Garden of Paradise, has become a source island for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Here, amidst rainbow-haunted green mountains, long smiles of pure white beaches, grand canyons and towering sea cliffs, travelers will find the healing practices of the ancient Hawaiians along with the wisdom of traditional Asian treatments presented in luxurious European-style resort spas. They may sign up to restore balance and harmony by self-healing during an Ayurvedic retreat on a private estate, tuck into a small esoteric healing center, or spend a day with a masseuse, acupuncturist, healer or homeopathic practitioner.

Lomi Lomi, the most popular Hawaiian massage technique, can be compared to Swedish massage but with longer strokes using the entire forearm. Japanese Zen shiatsu is reported to be particularly healing and calming. Hot stone therapy using Kauai's dark rounded rocks shaped by the ocean over time is an amazing de-stresser. Many spas do their treatments beside the ocean or in walled gardens.

Some spas specialize in body wraps with ti leaves, Chinese or European herbs. There are Kauai salt scrubs, seaweed baths, and hydro-therapy baths with acupressure. Even hotels often offer oceanfront yoga and tai chi classes.

Many of the products used by Kauai spas are made in Hawaii and some specifically on Kauai. Coconut based lotions, soaps and oils may be scented with jasmine, gardenia or ginger.

The body, restored in balance, and glowing with a newfound sense of wellness, may grow stronger on the fresh food of Kauai. Gourmet vegetarian restaurants and smoothie stands happily use the tropical bounty that blesses the islands to create delicious drinks and dishes.

Matters of the spirit may be addressed in the many churches around the islands. Some still sing their Sunday hymns in Hawaiian, others are endowed with museum-quality art. There are small Buddhist temples with golden altars and tranquil teachings. Those seeking alternative spirituality will find it at the many centers following the teachings of Indian masters, Hawaiian kahuna and astrologers.

Kauai itself is a great healer. The towering mountains rising dramatically from the depths of the ocean, the constant rainbows, the bare bones of the island visible at Waimea Canyon, all contribute to a feeling of endurance, strength, celebration and joy. A new look within can be the gift you give yourself, one that lasts a lifetime.

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CONTACT:
Emele Freiberg, Account Supervisor, Travel & Tourism
McNeil Wilson Communications, Inc.
1001 Bishop Street, Pauahi Tower, Suite 950
Honolulu, HI 96813
808-539-3440 phone
808-521-7163 fax
emele@mcneilwilson.com
5/07