Ulana

Kii: Hawai'i Life

It begins the moment the attack is released—whether it is a strike unleashed with a mea kaua ( weapon) or the simple stroke of an arm. This release of energy starts with a buildup of internal tension, cascading through the shoulders, arms, and hands. To master this, one must perceive the very first signs of that tension. By executing a strategy and implementing a counter-strike before that energy can fully transition into the limb, you ensure the opponent’s strike never reaches its potential. Their flow is not just held in check; it is reversed. This level of skill—Ulana—requires focus and strategic knowledge. At its highest peak, you sense the opponent's very breath before their body even moves, ensuring you are always one step ahead.

This is the relaxed ability to entwine oneself into the active motion of the attacker.

The Hawaiian Puke wehewehe describes ulana:

1. vt. To plait, weave, knit, braid; plaiting, weaving. Also unala, nala, unana. Mea ulana ʻia, plaited or woven material, textile. Mea ulana lole, weaver (Isa. 38.12), loom. (PPN langa.)

2. vs. Still, calm. Cf. lana 1.

3. nvt. Prophecy of a seer (kilokilo); to prophesy.