Mauna Lani hosts a spa-retreat event

By Wanda A. Adams
Advertiser Travel Editor

Kama'aina package and day rates are being offered for an unusual spa-retreat event headlined by internationally known author and alternative medicine advocate Deepak Chopra and the mother of modern lomi-lomi massage, Auntie Margaret Machado, set for Thursday through Nov. 17 at the Mauna Lani resort on the Big Island's Kohala Coast.

"Ke Kumu 'O Mauna Lani" brings together internationally known teachers and Hawaiian masters for four days of workshops, interactive seminars, spa treatments and social gatherings.

The program was organized by Mauna Lani spa master Sylvia Sepielli and resident Hawaiian historian and cultural specialist Danny Akaka. The goal is for participants to experience renewal through treatments while also learning about both ancient and contemporary healths options.

Akaka explains that "kumu" means not just "teacher" but "source." Sepielli said the Mauna Lani area, once called Kalahuipua'a, is known for "very powerful energy and a strong community centered around healing and balance of mind, body and spirit." "All Ke Kumu components and offerings come from this spirit of place," Akaka said.

The teachers include:

• From Hawai'i, Akaka, Machado, kumu ho'oponopono (mediator) Mona Kahele, storyteller Raylene Lancaster, cultural specialist Ulu Garmon, kumu hula Kaualoha Aiu of Halau Hula 'O Maiki.
• From elsewhere, Chopra, women's health specialist Dr. Florence Comite, Kundalini yoga master Ruth Hartung, financial planner Marion Asnes of Money Magazine, "chocolate therapist" Murray Langham, Spa Finder magazine executive editor Margaret Pierpont, aromatherapists Lilian Terry and Dr. Katya Tsvyetkova, herbalist Jok-Ken Lee, musician and music therapist Ed Mann, herbalist and massage therapist Boldijarre Koronczay.

What's on the agenda each day

• Welcoming reception, poolside at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13.
• Daily workshops, talks, ceremonies, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 16. Topics range from "Hula as Life" and "Gong Resonance" to "How to Let Go (during a spa experience)" and "Reducing Financial Stress."
• Deepak Chopra presentation, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14.
• Spa Garden Party reception and dinner, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, 7 p.m. Nov. 16.

Island residents can purchase a four-day package including hotel room, welcoming and open reception, daily workshops and interactive seminars, cooking demonstrations and a final night party starting at $1,130 (single room, garden view) up to $1,680 (double occupancy, ocean view); nonresident packages begin at $1,665. Day passes begin at $100 and include access to scheduled workshops and presentations. A $200 evening food and beverage event pass includes the opening reception on Nov. 13 and the Spa Garden Party Nov. 16.

Information: (800) 367-2323, www.maunalani.com.