From an argument with your partner to a conflict at work, there are many situations that can lead to negative emotions or mental blocks. Why not try the Ho’oponopono method? This age-old Hawaiian tradition involves taking full responsibility for your actions and letting go of limiting beliefs to reconnect with yourself and others.
What started out as an ancestral tradition aimed at resolving conflicts within a community or a family has gradually evolved into a life philosophy, and even a personal-development practice. But the basic objective remains the same: to eliminate certain limiting beliefs or memories with the help of a mantra, in order to regain inner peace and resolve stressful situations or conflicts with others.
In a way, the Ho’oponopono method is based on introspection and empowerment, with the key coming from your inner self and not from others.
What does it promise?
According to Hawaiian Dictionaries, the term “ho’opono” can mean “righteous, respectable, correct, upright”, or “to behave correctly”. More precisely, it’s a tradition aimed at overcoming certain conflicts, relationship problems, and other difficult situations such as a personal loss, all through the art of introspection.
“Ho’oponopono is the practice of sincere apology and true forgiveness. It is used today by many families, and in the past few decades, it has found its way around the globe,” reads an article on the subject by Psychology Today.
When is it useful?
The Ho’oponopono method can be used by anyone of any age, for any unpleasant situation, whether it affects your mind or your emotions. “When heartfelt, Ho’oponopono rectifies and helps heal the person asking forgiveness or all the people involved in the process,” the magazine adds.
How does it work?
The method is based on a four-part mantra, to be repeated tirelessly to yourself and in silence:
- Repentance: ‘I’m sorry’
- Forgiveness: ‘Please forgive me.’
- Gratitude: ‘Thank you.’
- Affection: ‘I love you.’
Do note that it’s not just a matter of saying these words to make yourself feel better and resolve your conflicts: this practice requires a certain amount of introspection, and is based on an awareness of your own personal responsibility for this or that action or situation.
Once this principle has been grasped, repeat the above over and over in your mind – “I’m sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you” – whenever you encounter a situation likely to affect you.
Done right, you should be able to eliminate certain beliefs that can trap you in, or even foster, difficult situations – ultimately leading you to greater inner peace.