What is Aloha?
Most people know "aloha" as the Hawaiian word for hello and goodbye. But to native Hawaiians, aloha is far more profound—it's a philosophy, a way of being, and a guiding principle for how to live in harmony with others and the world around us.
The word itself carries deep meaning: "Alo" means presence, and "ha" means breath of life. Together, they suggest sharing the breath of life—being fully present with another person and acknowledging their spirit.
The Aloha Spirit Law
Hawaii is the only U.S. state with a law defining a philosophical concept. The "Aloha Spirit" law (Hawaii Revised Statutes §5-7.5) recognizes aloha as the coordination of mind and heart within each person, brought forth through:
- Akahai: Kindness, expressed with tenderness
- Lōkahi: Unity, expressed with harmony
- ʻOluʻolu: Agreeable, expressed with pleasantness
- Haʻahaʻa: Humility, expressed with modesty
- Ahonui: Patience, expressed with perseverance
Living with Aloha
You don't need to live in Hawaii to embrace the aloha spirit. Here's how to incorporate these values into daily life:
Practice Kindness
Aloha starts with treating others with genuine warmth and compassion. Small acts of kindness—holding doors, offering sincere compliments, helping strangers—create ripples of positivity.
Seek Harmony
Lōkahi teaches us to find unity and balance. This means resolving conflicts peacefully, finding common ground with those who differ from us, and working collaboratively rather than competitively.
Stay Pleasant
ʻOluʻolu reminds us to maintain a positive attitude even in difficult situations. This doesn't mean ignoring problems, but approaching them with grace and good humor.
Remain Humble
Haʻahaʻa encourages us to stay grounded regardless of our achievements. In Hawaiian culture, boasting is frowned upon; instead, let your actions speak for themselves.
Be Patient
Ahonui teaches the value of patience and persistence. Good things take time, whether building relationships, mastering skills, or achieving goals.
Aloha and Sustainability
The aloha spirit extends to our relationship with the environment. Native Hawaiian culture emphasizes mālama ʻāina—caring for the land. This includes:
- Taking only what you need
- Leaving places better than you found them
- Respecting all living things
- Thinking of future generations
Bringing Aloha Home
Whether you've visited Hawaii or simply admire its culture, you can cultivate aloha in your own community. Start each day with intention, treat others with respect, stay humble in success, and maintain a spirit of generosity and gratitude.