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Ka Lio Nalowale (The Lost Horse): hula as a form of healing and connection for military service members
Thesis   Open access

Ka Lio Nalowale (The Lost Horse): hula as a form of healing and connection for military service members

Kristine Chieko Lilia Keliiliki
Master of Arts (M.A.), Drexel University
Jun 2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001591
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Abstract

Dance therapy Movement therapy Soldiers Soldiers--Psychology Hula (Dance)
The following is a voyage through the healing qualities of Hula and how these elements are specifically beneficial to a military population. Trends of chronic pain, depression, and PTSD exist amongst military service members (SMs), and Hula benefis physical, emotional, and spiritual health. A review of existing literature regarding the benefits of Hula, SM health, and DMT-specific theory is detailed. Connections are explored between poly-vagal theories of grounding, spinal/pelvis expressivity, Hula movement, and military conditioning. Narrative therapies, symbolism, and metaphor, inherent in Hula, are beneficial for SMs to externalizing and processing pain and trauma. The spiritual nature of Hula supports a sense of purpose, belonging, and familial cohesion which may be lost or re-established for an SM. A creative performance was conducted to encapsulate these ideas. Original Hula chanting and choreography were created and taught via virtual platforms to volunteer participants, filmed on location, edited, and prepared for presentation. A reflective movement response and review of behind-the-scenes emphasized that Hula is a collaborative art integrating all realms of health and the human need to connect to the past, present, and future. These values are imperative to holistic healing for SMs who are "lost." Hula may be the guide home.

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