In the cacophony of our modern world, amidst the relentless chatter of social media and the clamour for attention, there seems to be an imbalance and a growing gap between self-expression and the willingness and ability to listen. Have you noticed that too? Our digital age celebrates and promotes the freedom to speak, post, and proclaim our thoughts to the world through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. It is liberating and encourages creativity, yet, in the process, it seems we are gradually losing the ability to truly listen. We find ourselves in a world where the art of listening is quietly slipping into the background, drowned out by the constant noise of self-promotion and the desire to be heard.
As we navigate this talkative world and race for followers and subscribers to gain popularity, prestige, and money, genuine listening becomes rare. The act of listening, once cherished as a cornerstone of meaningful human interaction, now often plays second fiddle to the pursuit of personal validation through likes and comments. In this landscape, imbalance looms large—our world has become a place where everyone wants to be heard but fewer are interested in listening to others.
Lomi Lomi, a traditional Hawaiian healing practice that incorporates both giving and receiving, can serve as a potent antidote to the prevailing imbalance between constant talking and self-expression versus listening in our modern world. This practice is deeply rooted in the principles of harmony, connection, and respect for the body and spirit. Its holistic approach encompasses not only physical healing but also emotional and spiritual well-being.
While receiving Lomi Lomi, you are in a receptive state, surrendering your body to the touch of the practitioner. This act of surrender and receptivity teaches an important lesson in listening—listening to the body. You are encouraged to tune in to your body’s sensations and responses.
In a world that often prioritises constant talking and self-expression, this act of being still and receptive can be a truly transformative experience. It allows individuals to listen to their bodies, identify areas of tension or discomfort, and ultimately connect with their inner selves. The nurturing touch of Lomi Lomi promotes a sense of self-awareness and self-compassion, encouraging individuals to listen to their bodies’ needs and emotions.
But Lomi Lomi is not just about receiving; it is also about giving. As a Lomi Lomi practitioner and teacher, I approach every session, retreat, or workshop with a deep sense of empathy and presence. I listen and teach my students to listen to the recipient’s body and their own body and respond intuitively, adapting the technique to address areas of tension or resistance.
This aspect of Lomi Lomi emphasises the importance of empathetic listening and being fully present at the moment. It teaches us as practitioners to put aside our own thoughts and concerns and attune to the needs of the recipient’s body and our own body while performing Lomi. In a world dominated by constant talking and self-expression, this practice can be a refreshing reminder of the power of listening and empathy.
Incorporating the Lomi Lomi approach into one’s life can serve as a powerful complement to mindfulness practices, like meditation and yoga, in the pursuit of balance. It promotes self-awareness, self-compassion, and the ability to be present for ourselves and others. Lomi offers a unique opportunity to restore the equilibrium between listening and constant talking.
In a world where constant talking dominates, the ancient practice of Lomi Lomi offers a sacred space for us to rediscover the art of listening, both to ourselves and to others. It invites us to embrace receptivity, empathy, and presence, fostering a deeper connection with our inner selves and the people around us. In this way, Lomi Lomi complements the broader effort to strike a balance between self-expression and genuine listening in our increasingly talkative world.
To learn more about Lomi Lomi practice, you can read more articles from the Get Inspired section. You could also experience the benefits of Lomi Lomi on yourself and book your session with me today, or dive deeper and learn about the next retreat incorporating Lomi Lomi that I will facilitate in February on the West Coast.
