Ho’oponopono meditation 1: Aloha, limitless love

Hawaiian Ho'oponopono teacher, Kumu Pa'a Kawika Foster

Ho'oponopono teacher, Kumu Pa'a Kawika Foster. Source: Kumu Pa'a Kawika Foster

Ho'oponopono is a traditional Hawaiian practice centred on reconciliation. Roughly translated, ho'oponopono means ‘to make things right’. It teaches the importance of love and forgiveness to address the ‘pohaku’ or burdens that weigh us down. In this short mindfulness exercise, Kumu Pa'a Kawika Foster leads you on a journey of healing surrounded by your family. Sit or lie down comfortably as you begin.


The Hawaiian word ho'oponopono roughly translates into English as 'to make things right’.

This ancient Hawaiian practice involves a process of reconciliation and forgiveness to make things right in your relationships with ancestors, the earth and yourself.

In this mindfulness exercise, you will learn about the pillars of ho’oponopono, including the true meaning of the Hawaiian word 'aloha'.

Not just a greeting, this word literally means 'the breath of life' and refers to unconditional love that is free of prejudice or discrimination.

This meditation is led by Kumu Pa'a Kawika Foster who runs Mana O Kahiko.

To become a kumu (teacher), Kawika lived and studied with his teacher on the Hawaiian island of Molokai for many years. He now preserves and shares the teachings of his ancestors from his home in regional Australia.

Listen to more Great Minds episodes of ho'oponopono by following the podcast in Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify, or the SBS Radio app.

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