Several months ago, one of my office mates suggested that we add the "Benefits of Hula". Much to my surprise, my friends and my students came up with the following:

Children

• It exposes a child to various traditions, language, foods, etc. This exposure can crate opportunity for him/her to experience differences positively
• It encourages a child to take pride in his/her heritage and to respect that of others. It helps him/her understand the important difference between positive self-esteem and feeling superior.
• Respect of himself, everyone around him, culture, nature, etc.
• Discipline
• Poise
• Posture
• Coordination in mind, body and environment
• Rhythm
• Exercise the mind by memorizing the words, music and dance routine
• Team work - no one is an island, early on they are trained to look out for each other on and off the stage
• Coordination of shows, preparation for shows
• Halau/group pride, unity
• Social skills
• Lasting friendship
• Respect elders by learning about their life and hula experience

Adults

• Adults all of the above plus
• Preparation of shows, logistics, etc
• Network
• Social outlet beyond the work atmosphere
• Stress relief/exercise

Gracious ladies

• All of the above plus
• Responsibility to hand down their knowledge of hula to complete the circle
• Slows down the aging process both physically and mentally because the younger generation depends heavily on their guidance.
• Parents teach while grandmothers does the finishing touches, i.e. tie everything in pretty bows