Simple Hawaiian Practice
The holiday season is already upon us. Which can be a time of joy, expectation and happiness for some, but can also be a time of sadness, isolation, and emotionally draining for others. Recently, I was reminded of the ancient Hawaiian spiritual practice known as, Ho’oponopono (pronounced: HO-oh-Po-no-Po-no). It translates to move back in balance. The premise of this practice is learning to heal all things by accepting total responsibility for everything around us which includes, repentance, forgiveness, gratitude, and love. This may sound like a strange concept but I invite you to read on to learn more. It may be a useful tool to help someone through a difficult season or a reminder of restoring self-love and balance.
There are four steps to this practice which can be done in any order. The belief is we are responsible for everything in our own mind, even if it feels counter intuitive. Accepting this can be painful or difficult, so begin by choosing something you know you’ve caused for yourself, such as anger, over-indulgence, or addictions.
Ho’oponopono
Step 1: I’m sorry
By saying your sorry, you’re accepting responsibility for your actions.
Step 2: Please forgive me
Keep repeating it over and over (your remorse from step one).
Step 3: Thank you
It doesn’t matter who or what you’re thanking. You could be grateful for your body, the Universe, or God. Keep saying it again and again.
Step 4: I love you
Say, “I love you.” Mean it and feel it; there is nothing more powerful that love.
The power is in the feeling and in the willingness of the Universe to forgive and love. What a wonderful practice to learn and use in everyday life. Use this simple Hawaiian practice as a personal mantra for self-love throughout this holiday season and beyond. The ritual is said to have powerful healing energy. It is also believed that by repeating the prayer over and over can cleanse the body of guilt, shame, bad memories and feelings that cause negative thoughts. Who doesn’t want that?
Repeat after me:
I’m sorry
Please forgive me
Thank you
I love you
xoxox…..Sheryl