Hawaiian healing workshops offered

Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi will host “Ola Pono Ola Loa,” Native Hawaiian traditional la‘au lapa‘au workshops, throughout Hawaii Island with the first from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale in Hilo.

Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi will host “Ola Pono Ola Loa,” Native Hawaiian traditional la‘au lapa‘au workshops, throughout Hawaii Island with the first from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale in Hilo.

The free workshops will feature Po‘okela Ikaika Dombrigues and his insight into the healing wisdom of ho‘oponopono, la‘au lapa‘au, lomilomi ha ha, and la‘au kahea.

“I understand how today’s current demands can affect the health of our island’s people,” Dombrigues said. “The workshops aim to provide rich cultural knowledge and a way to help others care for themselves and their ohana.”

Dombrigues promotes health by sharing the healing wisdom of his kupuna and his ancestors in their use of la‘au lapa‘au (medicinal herbs) and Hawaiian values and spiritual beliefs.

“A lot of our people live with a broken spirit,” Dombrigues said. “One of our goals is to rebuild the mind, body and spirit of our people and to empower them into knowing who they are as Native Hawaiians.”

Dombrigues maintains a deep respect for the Big Island, a value he learned from his ohana. He continues the work he was called upon to do which is to help the people of Hawaii, and he remains driven to fulfill his kuleana (responsibility).

The workshops are open to the public. Light refreshments will be served; bring your own lunch. The other dates and locations are:

• 9 a.m.-3 p.m. April 8 at the Waimea Community Center.

• 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 6 at Hale Halawai, Kailua-Kona.

• 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 3 at the Naalehu Community Center.

• 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 17 at the Keaau Senior Community Center.

For more information, contact Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi at 969-9220 or visit www.hmono.org