Hula as Medicine
Ancient wisdom meets modern science in the healing power of hula
Written by a Hawaiian Culture Expert
Kalani MillerAncient Wisdom, Modern Science
Modern science is confirming what our ancestors always knew: hula heals. The traditional Hawaiian concept of mauliola defines health as balance of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. For generations, kumu hula and healing priests shared understanding of the body's connection to spirit and land.
Research at the University of Hawaiʻi's medical school demonstrates hula's tangible health benefits. The consistent, controlled movements strengthen core, arms, and thighs while improving cardiovascular health.
Physical Health Benefits
Studies show competitive hula burns as much energy as competitive basketball. The controlled, flowing movements provide excellent low-impact exercise that's accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.
Cardiovascular Benefits
- • Improved heart health and circulation
- • Enhanced oxygen uptake
- • Reduced blood pressure
- • Better endurance and stamina
Strength & Flexibility
- • Strengthened core muscles
- • Improved arm and thigh strength
- • Enhanced balance and coordination
- • Increased joint flexibility
Groundbreaking Blood Pressure Research
One landmark study found hula among the most successful non-medication treatments for high blood pressure, with participants showing remarkable and sustained reductions months after their program ended. This demonstrates hula's long-term therapeutic value.
Mental and Emotional Wellness
The hālau environment provides crucial social support networks that boost emotional health and aid recovery from illness. The practice itself works like meditation in motion, reducing stress and helping practitioners process trauma.
Stress Reduction
- • Meditation-like focused attention
- • Rhythmic breathing patterns
- • Mindful movement practice
- • Present-moment awareness
Emotional Support
- • Strong community bonds
- • Shared cultural identity
- • Intergenerational connections
- • Sense of belonging and purpose
Spiritual and Cultural Healing
For Native Hawaiians, hula provides connection to ancestral traditions and cultural identity that can be deeply healing. The practice helps restore relationships with land, language, and spiritual beliefs that are fundamental to Hawaiian wellbeing.
Cultural Reconnection
Hula offers a pathway back to cultural roots for Hawaiian people who may have become disconnected from their heritage. This reconnection can heal intergenerational trauma and restore cultural pride and identity.
💊 Health Benefits
- Physical: Strength, cardio
- Mental: Stress reduction
- Emotional: Community support
- Spiritual: Cultural connection
- Energy: = Basketball level
🔬 Research Findings
Non-medication treatment success
Survivor recovery therapy
Movement therapy studies
Competitive sport equivalent
🌺 Mauliola Balance
Therapeutic Applications
Hula is now being formally studied as therapy for various conditions, showing how ancient healing practices can complement modern medicine.
Breast Cancer Recovery
Research shows hula helps breast cancer survivors regain physical strength, emotional balance, and sense of femininity after treatment.
- • Gentle rebuilding of arm strength
- • Emotional processing through movement
- • Supportive community environment
- • Reclaiming body confidence
Parkinson's Disease
The controlled, rhythmic movements of hula help Parkinson's patients maintain coordination, balance, and quality of life.
- • Improved balance and coordination
- • Enhanced motor function
- • Cognitive stimulation through learning
- • Social interaction benefits
The Social Medicine of Hālau
Beyond individual health benefits, the hālau system creates healing communities. Students support each other through life challenges, creating extended family networks that provide emotional, spiritual, and sometimes practical support.
Community Healing Benefits
Social Support
Extended family networks provide emotional stability
Shared Purpose
Common goals create meaning and motivation
Intergenerational Wisdom
Knowledge flows between young and old
Accessibility and Inclusion
Hula's healing benefits are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Modifications can be made for those with mobility limitations, and the practice can be adapted for seated participants or those with other physical restrictions. The emphasis is on participation and connection rather than perfect execution.
Getting Started with Hula for Health
If you're interested in exploring hula for its health benefits, start by finding a kumu who understands the therapeutic aspects of the practice. Many hālau welcome beginners and can adapt instruction for different health needs.
- • Consult with healthcare providers before beginning
- • Start slowly and listen to your body
- • Focus on the meditative aspects of movement
- • Embrace the community and cultural learning
- • Allow time for both physical and emotional benefits