Ka Huna means ‘keeper of the secret’ and a Ka Huna specialises in the fields of medicine, herbs and healing.
Hawaiians believe everything has mana (energy). The trees, flowers, wind, sun, rain, ocean and mountains all have a spirit form which must be respected. To maintain health, the Hawaiian’s practice constant cleansing of the emotions in mind, body and spirit.
All people are believed to be connected to their surroundings, so an illness is a result of what you’re in conflict with – other people, your work, land, air or water. Healing your surroundings also is part of healing your body. Hawaiian shaman’s believe there is a reason for everything and time will reveal those reasons.
Massage is used for healing, detoxifying and energising, along with Pohaku massage using hot stones on the body. Each family also used massage (lomi lomi) a slightly different style to Ka Huna, as part of their family life; giving healing to each other regularly. Ti Leaf was also used and is still used extensively in cooking, decoration, cleaning, making leis and herbal treatments.
The 7 Principles of Huna Philosophy
Below are the 7 spiritual principles which create the core philosophy of Hawaiian Huna. These principles have come from the wisdom of the ancient ones.
IKE - Be aware of your thoughts, words, attitudes and actions. Each of us is responsible for our own destiny. I am aware.
KALA - There are no limits, be free! In the most creative and innovative ways. I am free.
MAKIA - Energy flows where attention goes – Be Focused.
MANAWA - Now is the moment of power – Be Here.
ALOHA - To love is to be happy with – Be Happy.
MANA - All power comes from within – Be Confident.
PONO - Effectiveness is the measure of truth – Be Positive.