Ep. 213: Pau Hana – How to Detach From Work
This week we learn from Native Hawaiian wisdom in the concept of “pau kahana,” which means “the work is done” (most people simply say, “pau hana”).The concept of pau kahana is more than just stating a fact, like “I’m off work now.” I’ve noticed that mykanaka – Indigenous Hawaiian – friends create a very distinct separation between work and personal life. So it’s not just about stopping work, but also engaging in practices that help us release the day’s burdens and shift gears. It’s a holistic mental, physical, and spiritual detachment from work after the workday ends that also allows us to shed the day’s burdens and shift gears. We’ll explore how this Indigenous wisdom is so important in today’s modern society, where it’s so hard to unplug from the demands of a world where work is only a smartphone away. I’ll share lots of helpful ideas to start your own pau kahana practice, including clear boundaries, connection to nature, people, and play.