Vast Lives Ep 02 : 'Connecting with Nature and Culture Through Body Surfing' Keali'i Punley

Vast Lives

In this episode, I had the absolute honor and privilege of sitting down with Keali'i Panley, a young man deeply rooted in his Hawaiian heritage and culture. Keali'i shared with us his upbringing in a plantation village, where he was surrounded by Hawaiian, Filipino, and Samoan cultures. Growing up in Whitmore Village, Keali'i emphasized the importance of family time at the beach, where they would engage in various water activities like surfing, boogie boarding, and fishing.

Keali'i's connection to nature and his cultural roots was further highlighted through his passion for body surfing, a sport he excels in and is deeply passionate about. He shared the significance of body surfing in Hawaiian culture, where the size of the board reflected one's status, with larger boards reserved for those of higher rank. Keali'i's dedication to body surfing, or "kaha nalu," goes beyond sport; it is a way for him to connect with the ocean, his ancestors, and the land.

Throughout the conversation, Keali'i delved into the challenges he has faced, particularly the struggle to slow down and appreciate the journey of life rather than rushing to achieve goals. He reflected on his energetic nature and the discipline he gained from his time in JROTC, which shaped his approach to life.

Keali'i's story is one of resilience, cultural preservation, and a deep connection to nature. His journey of self-discovery and learning to balance modern life with traditional values serves as an inspiration to all who listen. Through his passion for body surfing and dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture, Keali'i embodies the spirit of aloha and the importance of staying connected to one's roots.

Listeners are sure to be moved and inspired by Keali'i's story, his love for the ocean, and his commitment to honoring his heritage through the art of body surfing. Join us in celebrating Keali'i's journey and the lessons he imparts on living in harmony with nature and culture.