What the world needs now...is Mana...Sweet Mana.

Mana is a very special word in Hawaiian Culture. I did not know this word until I moved here to Lahaina, and started experiencing this positive, spiritual energy, especially when in the ocean and looking for shells. It drew me in, and I have never felt the same. It has given me something special...it's a feeling I have not felt before. It has healed me in a way I sooo needed.

Mana is the life force, spiritual power, and energy that permeates everything in Hawaiian culture. It’s not just a concept; it’s a tangible force felt and respected, influencing daily life, social structures, and the relationship with the natural world. It’s inherent in all things – people, objects, places, and even words. Understanding mana is key to appreciating the depth and richness of Hawaiian traditions.

Mana flows from numerous sources, deeply intertwined with Hawaiian beliefs and worldview:
Ancestral Lineage (Kūpuna): Your ancestors are a primary source of mana. The qualities, skills, and experiences of your kūpuna(ancestors) are believed to be passed down, influencing your own mana. Respect for elders (kūpuna) is particularly important because they are seen as repositories of knowledge and mana. Humility, generosity, and kindness are valued because they attract mana, while arrogance, greed, and negativity are discouraged because they diminish it.

The Natural World: The land (ʻāina), the ocean (kai), the mountains (mauna), and all living things are imbued with mana. Relationships with Nature: Respect for the natural world is paramount in Hawaiian culture because everything is seen as possessing mana.Respect the Land (ʻĀina): Practice sustainability. Reduce your consumption, recycle, and compost. Participate in community cleanups and restoration projects. When visiting natural sites, such as beaches, forests, and mountains, be mindful of your impact. Leave no trace and respect the environment.

Skills and Talents (Noʻeau): Excellence in any craft or skill (noʻeau) is also seen as a manifestation of mana. Whether it’s surfing, farming, weaving, or healing, or in my case creating beautiful jewelry from shells and the ocean! I feel mana when I am creating, and I hope you feel it when you wear my jewelry.

Words and Chants (ʻŌleloandOli): Words have power. Spoken words, especially chants (oli) and prayers, are considered conduits for mana.
Healers (kahuna lāʻau lapaʻau) use herbs, massage, and prayer to restore balance and harmony, both physically and spiritually. The mana of the plants, the healer’s own mana, and the patient’s willingness to heal all contribute to the effectiveness of the treatment.

Your mana sets the tone before your words do. Have the type of mana that no matter where you go, you always add value to the spaces and lives around you. Trust the vibes you get...mana does not lie. If they replenish your mana after hanging out with them, give them more of your time. Be the mana you want to share with the world.

simple.