ADVENTURE THERAPY
TAP INTO YOUR NATURAL CURIOSITY!
ADVENTURE THERAPY AT THE OHANA
Adventure therapy at The Ohana is a powerful tool for clients to overcome addiction and develop healthy relationships with their peers. Our program integrates Hawaiian culture, values, and practices to help individuals connect with their surroundings, develop a sense of self-awareness, purpose, and connection with others. At the heart of our approach is the concept of Ohana, which means family in Hawaiian, and represents the importance of connection, support, and a sense of belonging. Through our adventure therapy activities, we encourage our clients to embrace the spirit of Ohana and develop a deeper sense of connection with others. We also incorporate traditional Hawaiian practices into our adventure therapy program, such as hula dancing, lei-making, and other cultural activities. These activities allow our clients to learn more about Hawaiian culture, connect with the community, and develop a greater appreciation for the importance of cultural heritage and tradition in maintaining a healthy sense of identity.
Additionally, we incorporate the Hawaiian values of Aloha, Mālama, and Pono into our adventure therapy program. Aloha represents the spirit of love, compassion, and kindness, which is essential to building healthy relationships. Mālama represents the value of taking care of oneself, others, and the environment, which is essential to achieving balance and well-being. Pono represents the value of doing what is right, just, and in harmony with oneself and others, which is essential to developing a strong sense of integrity and purpose. At The Ohana, our adventure therapy program consists of 12 unique adventures over 12 weeks, each designed to challenge our clients physically, mentally, and emotionally, while incorporating elements of Hawaiian culture and experience the 8 districts of Hawaii.
OUR 12 WEEK ADVENTURE THERAPY PROGRAM
PUNA - Sunrise
Our first adventure takes place in Puna during the Eastern sunrise over the ocean, a moment that represents a new dawn or “hiki mai ka la.” During this adventure, our clients have the opportunity to witness the sunrise and reflect on the symbolism of a new beginning. We incorporate traditional Hawaiian practices into this adventure, such as oli (chanting) and hula (dance), to honor the significance of the occasion. By participating in this adventure, our clients develop a deeper appreciation for the beauty of nature and the importance of mindfulness and reflection in their recovery journey.
HILO - waterfalls
The second adventure in our 12-week adventure therapy program takes place in Hilo Town, where clients have the opportunity to experience the lush and tropical side of the island. This adventure offers a unique opportunity for clients to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the healing power of the natural world. During this adventure, clients will have the opportunity to explore the stunning waterfalls and tropical growth that are emblematic of Hawaii. Our experienced guides will lead clients through a series of activities and challenges designed to foster connection, promote healing, and build skills. By engaging with the natural world, clients will gain a new perspective on themselves and their place in the world.
Ka'u - black sand beach
The Ka’u district adventure takes our clients to several iconic locations, including the black sand beach at Punaluu, the Kalae lookout, and a local bakery. The black sand beach at Punaluu is a unique and sacred location that holds great cultural significance. At the Kalae lookout, clients can take in breathtaking views of the island and reflect on the importance of community and support in their recovery journey. The local bakery provides a unique opportunity to experience traditional Hawaiian foods and connect with the community. Our clients can learn about the cultural significance of food in Hawaiian culture and the role it plays in bringing people together.
Kona - luau
We begin the day with a tour of the cultural center at the King Kamahamaha Hotel, where clients learn about the rich history and traditions of Hawaii. This provides an opportunity for clients to gain a deeper understanding of the values and practices of Hawaiian culture that we have been incorporating throughout the program. In the evening, we attend a traditional Hawaiian luau, where clients can experience the food, music, and dance that are an essential part of Hawaiian culture. This ties the entire program together by providing a culminating experience. By learning about the teachings and struggles of the Hawaiian people, our clients can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their own struggles with addiction.
KAWAIHAE - HAPUNA
One of the adventures in the Kawaihae district takes place at the beautiful Hapuna Beach. This adventure is all about connecting with the healing powers of the ocean. We start the day with a grounding meditation and then take a dip in the ocean to refresh and energize ourselves. Our experienced guides lead us through gentle yoga poses and breathing exercises while we float in the turquoise waters. After the yoga session, we enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on the beach, consisting of fresh fruits and local Hawaiian cuisine. The rest of the afternoon is spent swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the stunning scenery of Hapuna Beach. This adventure is a perfect way to connect with nature and find inner peace, all while surrounded by the beauty of the Hawaiian coast.
WAIMEA - horseback riding
Our adventure therapy program at The Ohana includes a trip to Waimea, where we offer an experience like no other – horseback riding. This adventure is not only a fun and exciting activity, but clients have the opportunity to connect with these majestic creatures and build a bond with them. Riding a horse requires communication, trust, and a mutual understanding, which are valuable skills that can be applied to building healthy relationships with others. Moreover, the scenic views and lush landscapes of Waimea offer a serene environment for clients to reflect, relax, and be present in the moment. This adventure is a perfect opportunity for clients to practice mindfulness and be fully immersed in the natural beauty of Hawaii.
KOHALA - POLOLU valley hike
Our adventure in Kohala takes us on a hike through the Pololu Valley. This hike is a challenging but rewarding experience that allows our clients to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Hawaii. The Pololu Valley is a sacred site for the Hawaiian people and holds great cultural significance. This adventure provides an opportunity for our clients to challenge themselves physically and mentally. The hike requires endurance, balance, and focus, and our clients come away with a sense of accomplishment and pride in their ability to push themselves beyond their limits. As they navigate the rugged terrain and take in the breathtaking views of the valley and the ocean, our clients develop a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. This experience can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and transformation.
HAMAKUA - ZIPLINE
The highlight of this adventure is the exhilarating zipline experience that takes our clients soaring above the lush tropical forests and waterfalls of the Big Island. Ziplining is not only a thrilling activity but can also be a powerful tool for overcoming fears and building trust. It requires individuals to take a leap of faith and trust in themselves, their equipment, and their guides. Clients can practice skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making as they navigate through the zipline course. In addition to the zipline, the Hamakua district also offers breathtaking views of the ocean and waterfalls. This adventure provides an opportunity for clients to appreciate the natural beauty of the island while also challenging themselves and building valuable skills.
VOLCANO
The next adventure takes us to the sacred area of Volcano, where we will explore the incredible natural wonder of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. As we venture out into the park, we’ll be surrounded by the stunning beauty of lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and lava flows. The powerful energy and natural forces at work here make this adventure especially meaningful for clients in our program. We’ll have the opportunity to hike through unique terrain and explore the many trails within the park, including the popular Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes us through the heart of an active volcanic crater. As clients take in the awe-inspiring views and immerse themselves in the healing power of nature, they will also gain a renewed sense of purpose and direction in their recovery journey.
KAHUA RANCH
Nestled in the Kohala Mountains at 3,200 feet above sea level, Kahua Ranch offers a memorable sunset dinner under the stars. Upon arrival, a family member greets guests by an open campfire and shares the history of this 8,500 acre working cattle ranch. Guests indulge in a mouthwatering smokehouse BBQ beef & chicken dinner buffet with all the fixin’s, including macadamia nut pie for dessert. After dinner, guests participate in traditional paniolo (cowboy) activities, such as stargazing through a powerful telescope, branding a shingle to take home, and roasting marshmallows by the campfire. It’s an award-winning evening to remember.
KONA - OCEAN ADVENTURE
One of the most exciting adventures on our program is the Fairwinds Body Glove boat tour in Kona. This tour takes us out onto the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean, where we have the opportunity to see a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. The boat is equipped with a glass-bottom viewing area, which allows us to see the incredible coral reef system below the surface. We also have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear water and explore the underwater world up close. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide us with insights about the marine life and the history and culture of the Kona region. This adventure is not only fun and exciting, but also provides us with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and wonder of Hawaii.
MAUNA KEA
The final adventure of our 12-week journey takes place on top of Mauna Kea, where we witness the breathtaking sunset over the island. As we reflect on our journey, we come full circle with a traditional Hawaiian chant, expressing gratitude for the experiences we’ve had and the connections we’ve made. Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in Hawaii, is considered a sacred site for Native Hawaiians and is home to many cultural and spiritual traditions. By experiencing the sunset at the summit of Mauna Kea, we connect with the spirituality of the land and deepen our appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. This adventure provides a powerful conclusion to our journey, allowing us to reflect on our personal growth and the connections we’ve made with others and with the land.
BENEFITS OF ADVENTURE THERAPY
HEIGHTENED ABILITY TO HANDLE STRESS
You will practice a variety of coping mechanisms during activities that expose you to controlled stressful environments. You are then able to carry these newly acquired strategies over to your daily life.
INCREASE IN SELF-CONFIDENCE
During some of our adventures you may experience fear and a desire to quit. Alongside your peers, you will learn to act in the face of fear, highlighting your ability to show-up despite feeling scared.
MORE TRUST IN SELF AND OTHERS
You will practice leadership as well as taking direction from others during our activities. As you practice you will build more trust in your ability to lead and learn to trust those around you.
