HO’OPONOPONO
Trees are living organisms because they possess the basic characteristics of life such as the ability to grow, reproduce, respond, and adapt. When we must remove a living tree, COVA Tree acknowledges and respects the ending of a life form through the healing practice of Ho’oponopono.
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Ho'oponopono is a Hawaiian healing practice based on the belief that everything in the universe is connected and that our thoughts, words, and actions have the power to shape our experiences and the world around us. Ho'oponopono helps to bring balance, harmony, and peace to a situation or individual.
The five basic steps of Ho'oponopono are:
1
Acknowledge and take responsibility for one's thoughts, feelings, and actions that may have contributed to a problem.
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Example thought: I recognize I am participating in the removal of this valuable living tree.
2
Express sincere regret for any harm caused and ask for forgiveness from those affected.
Example thought: I wish we didn’t have to disrupt this life and all the plants and animals that will also be affected. I’m sorry. Please forgive me.
3
Forgive oneself and release any negative emotions, memories or thoughts related to the situation.
Example thought: I understand all life cycles end and make way for new life cycles to begin. Thank you, I love you.
4
Let go and trust in the process of healing and resolution, receiving forgiveness for all involved.
5
Repeat the mantra "I'm sorry, please forgive me. Thank you, I love you" as a way of connecting with the divine and asking for healing and resolution.
It is important to note that Ho'oponopono is not just a mental or verbal exercise, but rather a process of generating feelings within the body that correlate with the mantra. Aligning with the spirit of the process is the most important step to bringing about profound inner peace and healing. Saying "Ho'oponopono" can be seen as equivalent to saying "I'm sorry, please forgive me. Thank you, I love you."
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To understand more about trees and their importance as natural sources of energy and healing please read, Understand a Tree.
