Sunday 31 July 2016

Valuing 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 might think, "who cares?" Tikis are just decorations some businesses use to dress things up a bit. Actually, unless you really just don't like them (yes, there are some people that don't), there are several reasons.

First, tikis just look cool, in a sort of rudimentary way. While perhaps not as polished and elegant as a marble masterpiece from the Renaissance, they never the less can have a striking and powerful effect. Tikis emerged from ancient Polynesian culture from an era long past. The thought of those ancient times and exotic tropical locales can certainly capture one's mind in reverie.

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.

Another factor is that tikis can help us vicariously experience the tropics. One doesn't need to live in Hawaii to experience the wonder and beauty of a Polynesian paradise. This vicarious experience isn't limited to just tiki statues, either. Tiki cabins, tiki bars, tiki lights and tiki parties, because of their association with this intriguing and unusual culture, can help bring that paradise into your life.

With all of the benefits tikis and various aspects of tiki culture have, the phrase comes to mind: "What's not to like?" Why not put a little tiki into your life? Most of the things associated with the tiki lifestyle are easy to get, and usually not too expensive.

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.

For those not quite so highly motivated, a tiki party might be a good way to start. Most things for a tiki party are really easy to get and give you really great effects for very little expense.

I hope that some of these ideas can help you take a fresh view of tikis and how much fun they can be. Best of luck and I hope tikis can bring you wonderful enjoyment!




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