There are ways to open up to forgiveness; understanding the practice of Ho-oponopono

You aren't alone if you struggle with forgiveness. Many of us do, including me. The good news is there are many resources to support understanding and opening to forgiveness so the healing journey can be softer, easier, and restorative.

Ho-oponopono (pronounced HO-oh-Po-no-Po-no ) is a deep and meaningful ancient Hawaiian practice of forgiveness. It translates to roughly mean "moving back in balance or making things right". A direct translation from Hawaiian to English is "ho'o" means to make and "pono" means right or balance as it relates to life. Being off balance means things in life are misaligned. The practice brings life back on track by accepting total responsibility for all that surrounds us. Check out this wonderful and short video from Hawaiian elder, Kumu Kauka Sabra as she speaks to what Ho'oponopono is.

The practice originated on the islands of Hawaii. There it has been practiced in many variations both in group settings and for solo practice purposes. In fact, each island has a version of "Pono" that is used to clear and reset group tension. (https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/focus-forgiveness/201105/the-hawaiian-secret-forgiveness). While the practice is powerful to clear and forgive amongst many it is also proven and cultivated for solo practice as well. I know because I was introduced to it when I was struggling with forgiveness and I experienced the true power of it. Since then I have continued to use it in my meditation practice. I was able to find forgiveness in a place I never thought I could.

This practices partners up perfectly with the practices and teachings in Mindful Self Compassion. They both recognize that we can't practice forgiveness without opening up to our pain first. Creating a safe space to connect to ourselves where we can provide self-compassion, love and healing is a necessary step forward; Ho'oponopono does just that. The practice itself is similar to a mantra. The intention is by way of repetition we help clear and release negative emotions, trauma, pain, struggle, and thoughts. Overall we are strengthening our own self-identity and forging better relationships. The practice starts with a connection and acknowledgement of what pain or forgiveness you are looking to heal. This is the first and some would say, most important step. Awareness. Next the four statements used in the practice are:

I'M SORRY

PLEASE FORGIVE ME

THANK YOU

I LOVE YOU

There are many different ways to engage with this. Here are three different ways I recommend you try to see what works best for you. At the end of the day the goal is to reach reconciliation. Stay tuned for another conversation on the forgiveness steps.

1. I enjoy following a guided meditation. Here is one I like to use from the Honest Guys.
2. Many people use the practice by drumming up in your mind what, who, etc. is needing your forgiveness (and it can be yourself). From there you can create your own unique version of the mantra but maintain the four statements as your base.
3. Some play the mantra on repeat in the background while they work or study. Here is a sample: Ho'oponopono

No matter how you choose to practice, I promise when you do you will feel a difference. For more information on this beautiful style of meditation check out the Ho'oponopono website .

If you want to learn how to create your own practice and cultivate more forgiveness reach out and let's chat.

#forgiveness #mindfulnessmatters #mindfulliving #forgiveyourself #selfcompassion #heartopen #mindfulness