Please listen to the mantra here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jn2EFAR17hQ

The Hawaiian Ho’oponopono mantra is a traditional practice deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual fabric of Hawaii. Ho’oponopono, which means “to make right” or “to rectify,” is a process of reconciliation and forgiveness. The practice has evolved over centuries and has been handed down through generations, maintaining its significance in Hawaiian culture.

Historically, Ho’oponopono was a communal practice led by a kahuna, a Hawaiian spiritual leader or shaman. It was employed to resolve conflicts within families or communities, aiming to restore balance and harmony. The process involved open communication, apology, forgiveness, and mutual understanding. Through Ho’oponopono, Hawaiians sought to heal relationships, promote well-being, and maintain a sense of unity. The premise is that you can forgive, heal and love yourself, and that will resonate to others.

Hooponopono Mantra

I’m sorry
Please forgive me
I love you
Thank you

In more recent times, Ho’oponopono has gained global recognition, thanks in part to the work of Dr. Ihaleakala Hew Len, a Hawaiian psychologist. You can read the story called Zero Limits by Dr. Vitale. Dr. Len adapted the traditional practice into a personal development tool by introducing a mantra: “I’m sorry, please forgive me, I love you, thank you.” According to Dr. Len, the power of this mantra lies in taking radical responsibility for one’s experiences, pain and the world around them. The efficacy of the Ho’oponopono mantra is attributed to the belief that healing begins within oneself. By repeating these phrases, we aim to clear negative energy, release resentment and inner toxicity, and foster a sense of love, gratitude and well-being.

While the scientific evidence supporting the healing effects of Ho’oponopono may be limited, many people attest to its positive impact on their well-being. Reportedly, Dr. Hew Len was hired by the Hawaii State Hospital, to help with difficulties with their wards for the criminally insane. There was a lot of violence and restraints and many staff were assaulted, in danger and left. He reportedly opened clients files and recited the mantra over their files, and reportedly the clients decreased their behaviors, left seclusion and began to heal. The patients began to have accountability and took steps toward self care. The census in the ward declined and was later closed.

There is no concrete evidence of causation or correlation, but this powerful mantra surely evokes a sense of deep healing, self love and forgiveness. It echos the traditional forgiveness and accountability practiced in Buddhism, called maitri, karuna and The Four Powers. The practice continues to resonate with people seeking a holistic approach to healing and personal transformation, embracing both its cultural roots and modern adaptations. In the video above, you can recite this 108 times. You can use a mala rosary as a tool to help with your recitations, or recite this with one hand on the heart and one on the belly. You can recite this 108 times every day to cleanse all relational hurts, guilt, resentment and toxicity. Let us know in the comments how you feel afterwards!