Today as I went to practice a little Hula on my own, the sun broke through the clouds and it stopped raining. Since I was running a little late, I decided to start with Hula basics directly instead of doing an ordinary warm-up like I usually do. The first thing I noticed was that my hips were much more soft and my motions became more direct.
I realized that it must be because ordinary ballet (Modern and Duncan included) always assume a tight closure, whereas African and Hawaiian Hula open us up for a more relaxed flow. Soon as I started to 'oli (chant) and practise Hula Kahiko, I felt connected both through spirit and by memory. Lifting off the shadow with our collective heart. Grateful for the posted videos to remind me of the choreography that I was taught in 2005 for me to repeat. Currently I am focusing on a mele called Ula No Weo, about the bright sun in our landscape, which usually is to be accompanied with a drum. Have a listen here:
Keeping ourselves focused and aligned with one school of faith at the time, gives us access to more inner knowing of how to use it as medicine, when and where. Nature makes its own selection to fit with the immediate environment. If all Yoginis aspire to become Brahminis, balance and grounding with the origin becomes lost if they don't live in India. We need to water the roots instead and let the wind stand for its own renewal. Just like aspiring to be a real Haumana (student of Hawaiian arts to become a Kumu) requires its own commitment beginning in Hawaii.