It feels as if I've lived lifetimes in the past month...

After staffing the TEL Fellowship retreat and co-hosting the Mindfulness in Education Conference our family went on a much needed tech-sabbath/vacation in one of our favorite places in the world -- Hawaii. 

As we reveled in the magic and history of the magnificent Banyan tree, a gift hailing from my ancestral homeland, India - I thought a lot about the interweaving of cultures, complexities of colonialism, and the power of indigenous wisdom.  

In her shade, I reconnected with a powerful practice I learned more than 10 years ago and share here in the spirit of healing and gratitude: 

Ho’oponopono -  an essential healing practice that cultivates harmony and reconciliation rooted in Huna, the traditional spiritual shamanism of Hawaii. The term “ho’o” creates a verb from the noun “pono,” which means to correct and restore order and it involves saying silently or out loud “I’m sorry, forgive me, thank you, I love you.”

Repeat these phrases when experiencing negative emotions toward yourself or others. 

Until recently I’d primarily engaged in this practice in the context of my marriage but this month my inner guidance told me to extend the practice toward all beings and I’ve never felt such a sense of freedom before in my life. Negative charges lifted as a sense of calm and ease washed over me. 

There’s an incredible depth to what may seem on the surface a simple practice. If you are curious I encourage you to explore the practice further.

I find great nourishment from combining the meditative practice of japa from my ancestral spiritual tradition with the transformative principles of Hoʻoponopono. When I do this in the morning then the repetition of Hoʻoponopono throughout the day feels continuous and effortless. In this approach, the repetition of “I’m sorry, forgive me, thank you, I love you,”using prayer beads is infused with the intention of healing, reconciliation, and humility. 

You also don’t need prayer beads or a japa mala! The important thing is to just repeat with full heart and intention: “I’m sorry, forgive me, thank you, I love you.” This mantra is so powerful as it encapsulates the core principles of taking responsibility, seeking forgiveness, expressing gratitude, and embracing love.

To practice japa with Hoʻoponopono:

Set the Space: Find a quiet and comfortable place for your meditation. Sit in a relaxed position and close your eyes.

Begin the Repetition: With each bead on your mala (prayer beads), recite the chosen mantra: "I'm sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you." Allow the words to flow naturally, and focus your attention on the meaning behind each phrase.

Cultivate Intention: As you repeat the mantra, bring to mind situations, relationships, or emotions that may need healing or reconciliation. Hold the intention of taking responsibility for your part in these matters and seeking forgiveness.

Visualize Healing: As you recite the mantra, visualize a healing light or energy enveloping the situations or individuals you are focusing on. Imagine a sense of cleansing, renewal, and positive transformation taking place.

Express Gratitude and Love: With each repetition of the mantra, genuinely express gratitude for the opportunity to heal and grow. Feel a deep sense of love and compassion radiating from within you.

Close with Silence: After completing a round of japa with Hoʻoponopono, sit in silence for a few moments, allowing the energy of the practice to settle within you. Reflect on any insights or emotions that may have arisen.

Repeat Regularly: Engage in this combined japa and Hoʻoponopono practice regularly, aiming to create a consistent routine. Over time, you may experience a deep sense of inner peace, emotional healing, and a stronger connection with others.