Repeating the mantra – I'm sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you – while taking responsibility for a specific situation can help restore inner peace. — AFP
FROM an argument with your partner, to a conflict at work, to a niggling thought that just won't go away, there are many situations that can lead to negative emotions, or even real mental blocks. In this case, 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. Here's how it works.
What started out as an ancestral tradition aimed at resolving conflicts within a community, or even a family, the Ho'oponopono method has gradually evolved into a whole 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 situations considered stressful or conflicts with others. In a way, this life philosophy is based on introspection and empowerment, with the key coming from your inner self and not from others.
What does it promise?
According to the website Hawaiian Dictionaries, the term "ho'opono" can mean "righteous, respectable, correct, upright," or "to behave correctly." But, more precisely, it's a tradition aimed at overcoming certain conflicts (professional), relationship problems (like an imminent breakup) and other difficult situations (like a death) 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?
As mentioned above, the Ho'oponopono method is now considered a life philosophy, so there are no limits or restrictions, whether for adults or children. Any unpleasant situation, whether it affects your mind or your emotions, can justify the use of this personal development practice. "When heartfelt, ho’oponopono rectifies and helps heal the person asking forgiveness or all the people involved in the process," explains the American magazine.
How does it work?
While this method is based on a four-part mantra, to be repeated tirelessly to yourself (and in silence), it's not just a matter of saying these words to make yourself feel better and resolve your conflicts – whether internal or relational. 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, it's time to move on to the famous mantra. This involves repeating the following, over and over in your head – I'm sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you – whenever you encounter a situation likely to affect you. As we've seen, the idea is to eliminate certain beliefs that can trap you in, or even foster, difficult situations. – AFP Relaxnews