HAWAIIAN SHAKA SIGN

Anyone who has visited the islands has no doubt seen the famous hand gesture coupled with the greeting “shaka, brah!” A shaka sign – the unmistakable pinky and thumb salute – is the ultimate symbol of aloha and local culture in Hawaii. Interpreted to mean “hang loose” or “right on,” the shaka is a constant reminder that in Hawaii, it is not the norm to worry or rush. The shaka sign represents the embodiment of “island style.” It signals that everything is alright.

From surfers and keiki (kids) to bank tellers and news anchors, the shaka sign is universal in the islands. Use the shaka sign wherever and whenever you want to spread a little aloha, say thanks for letting you cut in on the road, or along with aloha as hello or goodbye. The shaka sign is more than just nonverbal communication. When you use it, you acknowledge the true concept of aloha and participate in the synergistic heartbeat of Hawaii.