A Trek to Heal

May 11

Alakai’i Swamp Trail, Kauai:

I was deep in the swampy wetlands, navigating through the fern covered jungle in the center of the wettest spots on earth. Ohia and koa trees are just two of what lined the moss covered path. Really easy to get lost, as parts of the trail are buried with overgrown ti leaves and mud.

So grateful for our Kumu Katrina DeJesus and Malia Nobrega-Olivera for sharing this adventure with me and our Hula Halau O’ Nalua ohana.

This trail is not just any swamp trail. It was the trail that Queen Emma, one of the Hawaiian Island’s most influential ruler, ventured through, as she grieved for the loss of her son and her husband. Her quest brought her spiritual healing and peace.

It was only 7 miles but the multiple changes in terrain made it feel like a hundred. We took our time on narrow, wobbly, planks. Most are rotted and destroyed. I didn’t realize that this hike would include some parkour skills as we swung on branches, jumped across rivers and leaped onto planks to avoid falling in the muddy bog. Unfortunately, some lost their shoe in the sticky mud and it took team work to pull it back out.

Even though there were many of us on the hike, we didn’t over power the peaceful stillness of the forest.

It was a time to be completely present and mindful with nature, with each other, and with our soul.

When we reached the peak of the Kilohana lookout, the view was absolutely breathtaking. It was amazing to see Hanalei Bay from the opposite side of Kauai.

It was challenging yet, so beautiful & therapeutic. I am grateful to have had this opportunity to bond even closer with my hula sisters

I can’t wait to see how our hula will tell the story of this healing journey we all embarked upon. Stay tuned…