Appreciating The Tiki Lifestyle

By Kevin Lewis


When was the last time you remember actually thinking about a tiki? When was the last time you even remember seeing one? Tikis, especially if you live in an area that has a lot of them, become something taken for granted. Tikis really can offer a bit more than simply being part of the environment. Sometimes looking at things in a different way, you can open your eyes to the idea that tikis can actually be a lot of fun, can make your home or living space more interesting and give you joy in your daily life.

You may think, "who cares?" Tikis are just designs that a few bars use to spruce up the place. Really, unless you truly, simply don't care for them (yes, there are some individuals that don't), there are a few reasons.

First, tikis look cool, in a really basic and simple sort of way. True, compared to other kinds of statues, they are pretty crude. It is, however, this very basic simplicity that makes them so cool. Without being as polished as a marble figure from a renaissance master, they still have a very powerful effect. Tikis are part of the Polynesian culture from a long time ago. The thought of those ancient times and what their tikis represented to them really captures the mind.

Polynesian culture is a vast and interesting subject unto itself, and worthy of study for those interested. For the purposes of this article, however, it will be sufficient to understand that tiki statues represent the "First Man." It was thought that the "First Man" was, himself, a god and that all Hawaiian people descended from him. There were other gods as well, typically including the god of war, the god of agriculture, the god of creation and the god of the sea. When a tiki statue was created, if the god it represented was pleased he would actually inhabit the statue and provide strength, power and protection to the people.

Vicarious experience can be another important aspect to consider about tikis. A tiki can be a colorful and effective stimulus to help us enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of the tropics vicariously. Tiki statues are not the only things that can provide this stimulus. Tiki huts, tiki bars, tiki lights, tiki torches and tiki parties, or luaus, can all provide that same gateway to a mental paradise, if we will become aware of it, and simply allow it to happen.

With so many fun and exciting things going for them, why would anyone ignore them? Why not put a little tiki into your life? All these tiki items seem to be available just about everywhere, and are usually inexpensive.

For do-it-yourselfers, lots of tiki items can be made. Tiki statues and tiki huts might be a little harder and more involved, but even they can be made if one is willing to take a little time and put in some work.

If all that sounds like too much work, a tiki party or luau may be the way to go. Items for a tiki party abundantly available and offer a lot of value for your money.

Hopefully some of these ideas will help you think about tikis with new appreciation. Good luck, and consider adding a bit of tiki to your life.




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