The various types of this massage were originally practiced in the temples of the Kahunas, i.e. the healers or sages. The indigenous Hawai'ians were a very earth-connected people; they saw humankind as part of the universe, which always is flowing with energy. According to tradition, people can use this energy to channel harmony into their lives on a physical and spiritual level.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the first missionaries arrived in Hawai'i and imposed their culture on the Hawaiians. Nudity, hula dancing, and belief in the gods were forbidden. Since the 1970s, there has been a revival of interest in Hawai'ian culture; ancient cultural traditions are once again being taught and respected. Even though it was in Jona, St. Gallen, rather than Hawai'i, I consider it a gift that I was able to experience a glimpse into this tradition.