Ancient Ho'oponopono Prayer
The ancient Hawaiian wisdom of forgiveness is beautifully encapsulated in the practice known as "Ho'oponopono (pronounced HO-oh-Po-no-Po-no). This age-old Hawaiian tradition not only serves as a means of communication for reconciliation but also acts as a potent tool for the restoration of self-love and inner equilibrium.
Dr. Ihaleakala Hew Len, a Hawaiian psychologist, played a pivotal role in introducing the Ho'oponopono prayer to the Western world. His remarkable work at the Hawaii State Hospital, where he used the Ho'oponopono prayer to heal patients he never even met, has gained significant recognition.
When practiced alone, it can function almost like a self-affirming mantra and is incredibly straightforward. The term "ho'oponopono" can be roughly translated as "restoring balance" or "setting things right." In the native Hawaiian language, "pono" signifies balance in the context of life.
Repeating these four phrases:
1. I'm sorry
2. Please forgive me
3. Thank you
4. I love you
During introspective moments while speaking to your inner self, inner child, or directed to someone you need to heal from consider responding to these journal questions:
1. I am sorry for...
2. Please forgive me for...
3. Thank you for...
4. I love you for...
Delve further with these journal prompts:
- How can I nurture my inner child? What are some of their needs from me?
- In what ways can I extend greater love, reduce self-judgment, and enhance my self-compassion and understanding?
For those interested in exploring the Ho'oponopono prayer further, there are YouTube videos available:
1. https://youtu.be/e3J0vX7AqfI?si=Dh41cS2z2a885gA5
2. https://youtu.be/Fk6UtIwNjkg
Putting it into practice:
1. Seek a quiet, undisturbed space.
2. Sit comfortably, take a few deep breaths to relax, and center your mind.
3. Focus on a person, situation, or thought causing you pain or distress.
4. Silently or audibly repeat these four phrases, directing them towards oneself, a person, or situation:
a. I'm sorry.
b. Please forgive me.
c. Thank you.
d. I love you.
5. Continue repeating these phrases as long as needed, allowing your emotions to surface.
6. When you feel ready, take deep breaths and release the story we've conditioned ourselves to internalize from your thoughts.
7. Repeat this practice regularly to release negative emotions and cultivate love, forgiveness, and inner peace.
Recently Ho'oponopono prayer has garnered global recognition as a potent tool for healing, forgiveness, and inner serenity. It rests on the profound belief that all elements of our world are interconnected, and we hold a shared responsibility for the world we shape.