Throughout history, the nourishing spirit of Kalahuipuaa, now
known as Mauna Lani, has been revered and cherished by the people
of the islands. In the past, one could only visit by invitation
from Hawaiian royalty. Now, Mauna Lani invites guests to honor this
legacy and join in the spirit of health and renewal.
Lifestyle experts will gather at the Big Island resort June 8-12
to share their philosophies from around the world in an intimate
four-day retreat. The third annual Ke Kumu O Mauna Lani celebration
will welcome the return of Hawaiian cultural masters and recognized
health and wellness experts from across the country.
Ke Kumu O Mauna Lani is a unique blend of traditional and
contemporary lifestyle seminars, interactive workshops and
wellness-inspired activities where participants experience
presentations by respected leaders in these fields.
“We’re very privileged that Mauna Lani is on sacred land,” said
Sylvia Sepielli, owner of Sylvia Planning & Design (SPAd), the
company that operates Mauna Lani Spa.
“Guests tell us that the Ke Kumu experience reinforces their
intuition that there are more comforting and natural ways to heal
mind, body and spirit,” commented Kurt Matsumoto, general
manager.
“The event is exciting for those who discover that old
traditions have a place in complementing and softening modern
medical practices. People feel empowered to go home and seek out
alternatives to Western medicine. They’re more energized to learn
about spiritual healing as means to cope with daily life.”
Among those committing to the event are recognized experts in
Hawaiiana and lifestyles.
The Hawaiian Masters
Danny Kaniela Akaka, Mauna Lani resident Hawaiian historian and
kumu (teacher), will lead discussions with local kapuna (elders),
kahu (Hawaiian spiritual leaders), and healers on the history and
legends of Mauna Lani and spiritual healing on the Big Island.
Akaka views the retreat as a privilege meant for those who feel
a strong spiritual attachment and bond to Mauna Lani and who are
compelled to fulfill their own personal destiny. “It’s the land
that really sends out the invitation,” he remarked.
While here, he feels attendees will gain an insight into the
healing methods of practitioners representing many global cultures,
including the indigenous culture of Hawaii.
“Those who attend will take home with them values that are
important to the process of healing, which they could apply to
their own lives, as well as that of their families and friends,” he
noted.
Other kumus and experts in Hawaiian culture include Auntie
Margaret Machado (lomi lomi massage), Raylene Haalelea Kawaiaea
(story telling), Kaualoku Aiu (hula), Ulu Garmon (preservation of
nature), John Kaimikaua (Hawaiian traditions) and Sam Kama (master
weaver and storyteller).
The Lifestyle Experts
Roger Gabriel has assisted Deepak Chopra with numerous seminars
and workshops. He has taught meditation and Ayurveda to thousands
of people on all continents for over 30 years.
Other lifestyle experts include Dr. Jeffry S. Life (age
management), Dr. Bradford Keeney (shamanism and healing) and Master
Hong Liu (Grandmaster of Qi Gong).
Ke Kumu Room and Event Packages
Special packages include four-night oceanview accommodations at
Mauna Lani Bay from $1,780 (double occupancy) plus applicable
taxes. The Ke Kumu room package also includes a welcome and opening
reception on June 8, daily workshops June 9 - 11 and final night
garden party with dinner on June 11.
Limited individual day passes are available online or by phone.
For specific Ke Kumu details, contact Susan Bredo, event director,
at (808) 885-6622.
Matsumoto noted that the property saw some 25 percent repeat
business for the event from its first to second year.
“We’re seeing some bookings already and expect a growth year,”
he said.
www.maunalani.com
800-367-2323
