The Mindfulness and Aloha Breath program, created by Dr. Thao “Kale’a” Le of the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, blends the Hawaiian Aloha Spirit Law and mindfulness -the practice of being present – to enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation. It aims to help children and adults manage stress, improve focus, and develop personal integrity and leadership through contemplative practices (click here for reference article, Mindfulness and Native Contemplative Practices).

The six-book series serves as a “social emotional learning” (SEL) toolkit, teaching children how to navigate their emotions by grounding themselves in core Hawaiian values. The overarching theme of the series is relationship – both with oneself and with others. By using the letters of “ALOHA” (Akahai, Lokāhi, Oluʻolu, Haʻahaʻa, and Ahonui) based on Aunty Pilahi Paki, the visionary behind the Aloha Spirit Law §5-7.5), as a framework, Dr. Le shares that mindfulness isn’t just about being aware, but that awareness needs to be infused with kindness, humility, acceptance, agreeableness, and patience, for balance and peace.  ALOHA values are presented in colorful, illustrated narrative-driven stories including Akahai (kindness), Hoʻoponopono is Harmony (Lokāhi), Monkʻa & the Art of Agreeableness, ‘Oluʻolu, Haʻahaʻa: Mango Learns Humility, and Beeing Patient: Ahonui. 

Mindfulness with Aloha Breath

The first book in the series, Mindfulness with Aloha Breath, provides a basic understanding of mindfulness as a practice and skill and its connection with ALOHA values. It introduces the concept of “ALO” (presence) and “HA” (breath) to calm impulsive emotions and the reactive mind.  See reference article:   Mindfulness & Aloha Response