Island Wisdom: Hawaiian Traditions and Practices for a Meaningful Life by Annie Daly

ALOHA (love) • 'ĀINA (land) • MO'OLELO (stories) • 'OHANA (family) DISCOVER FOUR FOUNDATIONS OF HAWAIIAN LIVING FOR A PEACEFUL AND BALANCED LIFE. More than just a beautiful paradise, Hawai'i has a rich culture, deeply rooted in tradition. Native Hawaiian and cultural expert Kainoa Daines has spent many years teaching visitors to the islands about this time-honored wisdom, and now he has teamed up with journalist Annie Daly to share that knowledge with you. Island Wisdom is an inspirational and rewarding journey through traditional Hawaiian teachings that have stood the test of time, from how to be pono (live a balanced life) to how to mālama 'āina (preserve and protect the land). Filled with the voices and guidance of Hawaiian elders, regional folklore, and ancient teachings—plus gorgeous local photography and illustrations throughout—Island Wisdom is a celebration of Hawaiian culture, language, and values that will give you a deeper understanding, appreciation, and respect for Hawai'i and the Hawaiian way of life. Perfect for: - Fans of the Read more

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From the Publisher ALOHA (LOVE) Many people think that Aloha simply means “hello” and “goodbye,” but it’s much deeper than that. Hello and goodbye come from the mouth, while aloha comes from the heart—because it’s a spirit. An emotion. A way of being. A spiritual principle with deep cultural roots. Living with aloha is doing everything you can to make sure that those around you have what they need, whether that’s food or clothes or a safe and cozy place to rest. It is about gathering the best information at hand, weighing your options, and then making the best decision you can with everything you have—including the love in your heart. ‘ĀINA (LAND) Hawaiians are not just connected to the land; they believe they are the land. They are the trees; they are the plants; they are the wind; they are the forests. Even if you don’t live in Hawai‘i, remember: Everything on this planet is connected. Fresh water, salt water, the forests, the valleys ... it’s all one. And the success of one depends on the success of the other. Think of ways to treat your own land like family. Maybe this means learning how to compost, or planting trees native to your area. The point is that you’re caring for the Earth like you would your dearest relatives. Learn more about the place you live – do you know where your water comes from? Do you know the history of the streets and cities around you? Knowing your roots will create a sense of belonging. MO’OLELO (STORIES) Storytelling is a huge part of Hawaiian culture, as it was the primary way ancient Hawaiians passed down their knowledge. Hawaiians believe that there is mana (energy) in words themselves—meaning you can make something real simply by speaking the word out loud or even writing it down. Conversely, if you are worried about something bad happening, don’t say it out loud. Think deeply about the names you give to everyone and everything in your life, from your children to your businesses. Ask yourself: Do the names you’re choosing help you connect to your own roots? ‘OHANA (FAMILY) In Hawaiian culture, anyone who has either had a hand in raising you or whom you have helped raise is considered part of your ‘ohana (family). Knowing your ancestral history is key to living a meaningful life: it “gives you a greater sense of yourself, to give you the foundation of who you really are” (Lopaka Kapanui, Kumu Hula and master storyteller). We’re all connected, and life is better and more meaningful when we spread the love—and wisdom—to our people.