Welcome to your ✨Monday Moment✨
Take a deep breath in. Hold it. Exhale.
Pick a colour 🔴 🟠 🟡 🟢 🔵 🟣
Find the moment below with that same colour, then go to the closing moment at the end.
🔴 Take a moment to learn the difference between the two types of Polynesian dances: Hula and ‘Ori Tahiti. Hula originates from the Hawaiian Islands and is known for its slow and graceful movements. ‘Ori Tahiti originates from Tahiti and features fast, rhythmic and energetic movements. Both serve as essential expressions of the Polynesian culture, connecting the community to their ancestry, traditions and spiritual world.
🟠 Take a moment to listen to the beautiful song Lei Ho’oheno by Kainani Kahaunaele. In essence, it is about a grandparent’s love for their grandchild, but in a deeper sense, it speaks to the affection we hold for anyone dear to us. The lei, worn around the neck, symbolising the arms of a loved one hugging you, a gesture of pure affection, connection and aloha.
🟡 Take a moment to reset your mind and body with a simple hula movement called the kāholo. This basic step can help relieve stress and restore focus. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent (known as ai ha’a). Place your hands in loose fists on your hips. Take two steps to the right and tap your left foot. Repeat the same to the left. Move gently with intention and allow your body to find its rhythm. Repeat as needed to reconnect with calm and presence.
🟢 Take a moment to learn about one of the more unique musical instruments used in hula. Many know of the ukulele, but few know of the ukeke, thought to be the only indigenous stringed instrument native to Hawaii. What makes it unique is the way it is played. The soft, dulcet tones are amplified by holding it near an open mouth, which then acts as a resonator. Used in courtship and romantic serenades because the sound is so soft it would make listeners lean in closer to hear, drawing them in emotionally and physically.
🔵 Take a moment to think of at least three films that include hula dancing.
🟣 Take a moment to learn about one of the most famous hula dancers, Kumu ‘Iolani Luahini. Born in 1915, she was considered the high priestess of ancient hula. A master of both the spiritual and artistic dimensions of the dance, she devoted her life to preserving and teaching the sacred traditions of hula. She dedicated her life to teaching the tradition and knowledge of the sacred hula ceremony to her students and future generations.
A closing moment to take another deep breath together. Hold it. Exhale. Like so many cultural dances, hula is more than just movement. It serves as an essential storyteller and living archive of history and identity. It reminds us of the power of connection, how we come together through shared tradition and community. As you move through the week ahead, take a moment to reflect on the story you’re telling through your actions. How are you honouring your own history? Aloha 🤙
Your thoughts and comments are always welcome; this is a safe space. Feel free to share this hula moment with anyone who might enjoy it, and don’t forget to sign up to receive your free ✨Monday Moment✨ every week straight to your inbox.
Disclaimer
This site is created for entertainment, happy vibes and informative purposes. It is not to be perceived as professional advice in regards to health or finances, or any other field. I am also human and may have to the odd misspelling, grammatical error and/or repeats. I will always try my best, but will never promise perfection.
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