Lomi Lomi massage.
Hawaiian massage with long, broad forearm strokes. Firm, flowing, and easy on the body from head to toe.
- Lengths
- 30 · 60 · 90 min
- Price
- From $65
- Pressure
- Medium
- What to wear
- Your comfort level
- Best for
- Full-body reset
What it is
Lomi Lomi is an ancient Hawaiian massage. Your therapist uses the soft, fleshy part of the forearm to give long, broad, firm strokes over your body. The pressure is deep but feels soothing, without the sharp moments some deep work can bring.
Native Hawaiians, the Kānaka Maoli, kept this practice within their own families, or ohana, for centuries. In 1974, Auntie Margaret Machado of Hawai’i’s Big Island began sharing it with the wider world. The name comes from the Hawaiian word for “to rub.”
Why people book it
- Long, broad strokes that feel soothing
- Head-to-toe, full-body flow in one session
- Firm pressure without the painful moments
- Oiled strokes that are kind to your skin
What a session looks like
Your therapist oils your skin so the forearms can glide. The work moves in sets of three flowing strokes over each part of your body. One stroke runs up and over your shoulder, down your back, hooks your hip, and returns with the other forearm. The first introduces the stroke, the second prepares you, and the third does the work. It’s meant to feel like surf rolling over a beach. Lomi Lomi works best as a full-body session of 60 or 90 minutes.
Both are full-body and flowing. Lomi Lomi uses broad forearm strokes with firmer pressure in a set rhythm. Want a lighter, hands-on classic? Swedish is the better fit.
Therapists who offer Lomi Lomi
From Mindbody: bookable now or booked recently
“Doug is the best Lomi Lomi massage in Austin.” — Patrice M., Google review
“The lomi lomi was wonderful. I feel great.” — Brandy K., Google review
Pricing
- 30 minutes$65
- 60 minutes$120
- 90 minutes$170
Same price for every style, and every session is the full time on the table.
Questions
How is it different from other massage?
Lomi Lomi uses your therapist’s forearms in long, broad, flowing strokes, in sets of three over each part of your body. The rhythm is steady, like surf rolling in.
Is it deep?
It’s firm, medium pressure. The broad forearm strokes feel soothing rather than sharp. Tell your therapist if you want more or less.
How much oil will you use?
Plenty, so the forearms glide. Your therapist uses a high-quality oil, such as sunflower. Sensitive to an oil? Tell your therapist before you start.
What should I wear?
Whatever you’re comfortable with. Because oil is used, the full-body work is easiest with little clothing. Your therapist will talk you through draping before you start.
