Living a Life of Aloha

I grew up in Hawai’i, where “Aloha” means both hello and goodbye – but it has significance far beyond that. Aloha means love, peace and compassion. And it’s a way of life. Living a life of Aloha is about a heart filled with love and compassion for others and yourself, a magic cycle of goodness.

I try to bring that Aloha spirit into my home and work life. It’s not always easy – life is full of distractions, annoyances and sometimes serious hardships. But when I focus my attention on Aloha, I’m better able to handle life’s challenges.

We all can use the Aloha spirit to bring us greater peace and sense of abundance.

Give from your heart.

My husband loves to cook. He cooks a ton of delicious food, then takes it to all our neighbors. When we first got married, I would be overwhelmed with his generosity – sometimes even annoyed! I thought it was going overboard, but then I realized it was his joy to give to others something he loved. This is an example of giving from your heart. It’s giving with no expectation of anything in return and when you do that, it’s amazing how good it feels.

Be kind.

In Hawaii, everyone hugs and kisses each other hello and good-bye. They call elders Aunty and Uncle even though they aren’t related. When you go to someone’s house for dinner or a potluck, the host always packs you up a container to take home. If you are driving in traffic, you always wave the hang loose hand sign to show your gratitude for someone letting you in. All of these things are living Aloha and they are really things that show kindness and respect.

Appreciate the little things.

Every night when I tuck my boys in for bed, I ask them to tell me three good things that happened that day. At first it was challenging because they thought they had to be significant events. We talked about how happiness can come from the smallest things like a good lunch at school, a smile from a friend, seeing your dog when you come home from school, a hug from your grandma, etc. Studies show that when you appreciate the little things in life, and look for them, your level of happiness increases. For you, maybe it’s a good book, a beautiful view, a bubble bath, a hug from your child.

Be thankful.

Along with being appreciative, showing gratitude for life is so important. My husband works for a leading rehabilitation hospital that specializes in brain and spine injuries and often shares good perspective. I might get worked up about the boys having a bad grade or the dogs ruining the new wood floors. My husband more than not turns to me and says, “if this is all we have to deal with today, then we are lucky.” And wow, I am.

Always Aloha,

Courtney