Ho'oponopono: Definition, Benefits, Challenges, And More About This Hawaiian Practice of Forgiveness And Reconciliation

Ho'oponopono might be a relatively new concept on social media, but in reality, it is an ancient Hawaiian practice that has guided thousands or more people on a path of introspection and forgiveness over the years. In this technique, a person embraces their responsibility for creating the life they lead and uttering a set of words repeatedly. The process is followed until they feel their situation has been "cleansed." A senior psychologist says more.
Ho'oponopono

Ho'oponopono might be a relatively new concept on social media, but in reality, it is an ancient Hawaiian practice that has guided thousands or more people on a path of introspection and forgiveness over the years. In this technique, a person embraces their responsibility for creating the life they lead and uttering a set of words repeatedly. The process is followed until they feel their situation has been "cleansed." Ms. Anoushka Shinde, senior psychologist, atVeda Rehabilitation and Wellness, says more on Ho'oponopono and its applicability in our daily lives.

Ho'oponopono: Definition, Benefits, And More

"Ho'oponopono is a four-phase, successful dispute resolution technique. Taking responsibility, seeking forgiveness, and cultivating inner peace are its primary principles," says Ms. Anoushka Shinde.

The technique has proven to be a success in "building relationships, self-healing, forgiveness and acceptance, and the removal of emotional obstacles," she adds.

As mentioned before, Ho'oponopono involves uttering a set of words repeatedly till a person feels "cleansed." The words are "I'm sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you" and saying these on a loop "can make one undergo a personal transformation through the release of negative emotions like guilt and regret," mentions Ms. Anoushka Shinde.

"Apologizing creates room for healing while asking for forgiveness cultivates self-compassion and acceptance. Gratitude and love not only strengthen relationships but also cultivate a more positive mind," she points out.

Don't Miss:Casual Partnership: Sex Therapist Shares 5 Things to Discuss Before Starting One

So, when using these phrases becomes a habit, people "shift focus from internal struggles to emotional growth; they become self-aware, mindful, and emotionally balanced, paving the way to healthier relationships and deeper inner peace," adds Ms. Anoushka Shinde.

Ho'oponopono: Using It In Daily Life And Challenges

Ho’oponopono is a catalyst in your self-journey and so "can be applied to situations in daily life, in relationships, to dissolve emotional resistance, understand one another, and practice forgiveness," says the expert.

"During stressful situations, it can help manage negative emotions and bring clarity. It can also be used as a tool for self-healing to address unresolved emotional wounds and past traumas related blockages, providing clarity and alignment," adds Ms. Anoushka Shinde.

However, people might face challenges when practicing Ho'oponopono, like there might be a change in the dynamics of your relationships or energetic pushback. "As you heal, your relationships may change because some people may have been benefiting—consciously or unconsciously—from your unresolved emotional issues. When you grow, those dynamics shift, which can cause resistance from others," she highlights.

To combat this, one should let go of what no longer serves you.

"Practicing self-care and meditation can change how you see yourself. This often leads to releasing old habits, beliefs, or relationships that are no longer helpful to you," wraps up Ms. Anoushka Shinde.

Don't Miss:Are You Adjusting Or Compromising In Marriage? Let’s Understand The Differences

If you liked this story, please share it. For more such articles, stay tuned to HerZindagi.

HzLogo

Take charge of your wellness journey—download the HerZindagi app for daily updates on fitness, beauty, and a healthy lifestyle!

GET APP