The traditional Polynesian tattoo method dates back thousands of years. The Polynesian islands were once home to an ancient culture that had a strong spiritual relationship with the ocean and the land. Throughout this culture's history, tattoos have been a very integral part of the culture. It was believed that the tattoos could bring protection and good fortune to their owners. The Polynesian tattoo method, also known as tatau, was a way of expressing their spiritual beliefs and honoring the gods.