How to Practice Ho'oponopono in Four Simple Steps

Ho'oponopono can help people release themselves from guilt.

Ho'oponopono is a spiritually based self-transformation technique. It comes from the ancient Huna healing tradition of Hawaii. The word ho'oponopono means "make things right" in Hawaiian. It is designed to help people resolve past issues and live a more positive life. In the past, a mediator well-versed in Ho'oponopono would need to be present to lead people toward better mental or physical health. Recently the practice has been simplified so anyone can follow the Ho'oponopono principals in simple steps outlined by psychologist Hew Len.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper or journal

Instructions

1. Take responsibility for your actions, apologize and repent. Clearing your conscience of your mistakes will enable you to think positively and heal. Repenting may require making amends and retribution to people you have harmed. You are responsible for both your thoughts and your actions. It is natural to feel remorse for wrongdoing; it is unhealthy to hang on to the guilt and negative feelings.

2. Ask people you have offended or harmed to forgive you. Also ask God or a higher power for forgiveness. Ho'oponopono also requires you to forgive others for their mistakes. Once you know you have been forgiven and have shown forgiveness, a burden will be lifted and you will be free to make better choices and live a more peaceful life.

3. Show gratitude for all of your blessings. Be grateful that you have been forgiven. Tell the people in your life that you are thankful for them. Send your grateful thoughts to God for all that he has blessed you with. Write your blessings down on paper or in a journal. Expressing gratitude will make you feel happier.

4. Express your love of your family and friends. Make a list in your journal of what you love about the people around you. Knowing that you love your life and the people in it can heal your heart. Saying, "I love you," expressing gratitude and asking for forgiveness ignites the self-transformation process.

References

• Ancient Huna: The Huna Process of Ho'oponopono
• I Dream Catcher: What is Ho'oponopono?
• The Many Faces of God: Ho'oponopono