Strength for Body, Mind, and Spirit in the Time of Coronavirus

Aloha mai kākou,

We are entering a time that will test our minds, our spirits, and our bodies. COVID-19 is spreading quickly around the world, and it may soon reach critical levels here in Hawai‘i. Because this virus can transfer from one person to another even before symptoms appear, we must be vigilant and prepared.

Ali‘i Nui Mō‘i Edmund Keli‘i Silva Jr. has issued a message to the people of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i, offering three areas of wisdom to guide us through this challenge: strengthen the body, strengthen the spirit, and strengthen the mind.

1. Strengthen the Body

The King encourages us to take preventive measures to support health and immunity. Remedies such as elderberry, zinc, noni, echinacea, and vitamin C may help our bodies resist illness. Good hygiene is essential—wash hands often, disinfect surfaces, and use sanitizers when needed. He also reminds us to stock food, water, and supplies to last 30–45 days, not only for ourselves but also to share with those who may need help.

2. Strengthen the Spirit

In times of fear, we must remember the Indigenous Way of Knowing. By walking the Mana pathway—our spiritual connection with Akua, our ancestors, and one another—we find peace, balance, and clarity. Fear weakens, but aloha strengthens. Hardship can be a cleansing, a chance to renew ourselves and our world if we stand firm in truth and pono.

3. Strengthen the Mind

Even if quarantine or restrictions come, we can use this time productively. The King calls us to prayer, meditation, chanting, and the study of our Hawaiian language and traditions. By turning to our kūpuna stories and wisdom, we keep our minds sharp and our hearts strong, preparing ourselves for the future restoration and growth of our Kingdom.

A Call to Prepare and Unite

The King’s message is clear: prepare your home now with food, water, and essentials. Care for your ʻohana, and if possible, gather enough to share with neighbors and those in need. This is not a time for fear, but for aloha, for wisdom, and for resilience.

“May God be kind to you, and give you wisdom, and peace, as we navigate these challenging times by keeping our minds, body, and spirit healthy.”

Together, as Kanaka Maoli and as citizens of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i, we will overcome this crisis.

Ua Mau Ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono — The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.