In the Hawaiian way, knowing your lineage is essential. Lineage is not only about biological ancestry — it is also about those who have taught you, shaped you, and entrusted you with knowledge. In Hawaiian culture, teachers remain part of your spiritual and energetic genealogy. Their guidance, values, and ʻike (wisdom) continue long after they have left their physical body. To name one’s lineage is to stand in accountability and humility.

​

The Institute of Living Aloha’s lineage is rooted in Charlie Snow’s direct training in Hawaiʻi with respected Kūpuna (Elders) and Kūmu (teachers). Charlie teaches Spiritual Hawaiian Lomilomi Massage with permission from Papa K — a Big Island Lomilomi master who comes from a long line of healing kahuna.

​

Charlie has had the honour of learning Lomilomi in Hawaiʻi directly from Papa K, as well as from Kumu Lomilomi Alva James Andrews, Aunty Maile Spencer Napoleon, Aunty Mary Fragas, and Kumu Brenda Mohalapua Ignacio. These teachings form the living foundation of our school.

​

All Lomilomi Practitioners and Teachers representing the Institute of Living Aloha have been personally trained by Charlie and carry this lineage through the school. Each has been selectively invited to represent the Institute based on demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and a lived commitment to aloha. At the same time, each practitioner and teacher carries their own kuleana — their personal responsibility for how they embody, steward, and continue this work.

Learning does not end at graduation. All Teachers and members of our Practitioner Team engage in ongoing professional development through the Institute. Many also continue their studies in Hawaiʻi and/or directly with Hawaiian Kūmu, deepening their understanding and strengthening their cultural grounding.

​

There is a Hawaiian saying: Aʻohe pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi — not all knowledge is learned in one school. We honour the many teachers who contribute to this living tradition, while remaining clear about the lineage through which this school stands and serves.

​