by Dr. J Emanuel Hodge
Anger is a natural human emotion that can arise from a variety of triggers such as feeling hurt, frustrated, or threatened. When we experience anger, our bodies go into fight or flight mode, and our brains release hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can lead to physical and emotional reactions such as increased heart rate, sweating, and aggressive behavior. Anger can be a useful emotion in some situations, such as when we need to protect ourselves or set boundaries, it can also be harmful when expressed inappropriately or held onto for too long. Chronic anger can lead to physical health problems, such as high blood pressure, as well as emotional issues, such as depression and anxiety.
However, when anger is not managed effectively, it can lead to destructive behaviors, damaged relationships, and negative health outcomes.
Forgiveness, on the other hand, is the act of letting go of resentment, anger, and the desire for revenge toward someone who has wronged us. It does not mean condoning or excusing the behavior, nor does it mean forgetting the hurt that was caused. Rather, forgiveness involves acknowledging the harm that was done and making a conscious decision to release ourselves from the emotional burden of that hurt.
Forgiveness can be a difficult process, and it may take time and effort to fully let go of anger and resentment. However, it has been shown to have numerous benefits for our mental and physical health, as well as our relationships. Forgiveness can improve our mood, reduce stress and anxiety, increase empathy and compassion, and promote greater self-esteem and resilience.
Forgiveness involves acknowledging the harm that was done and making a conscious decision to release ourselves from the emotional burden of that hurt. Ho’oponopono meditation can be a helpful tool to facilitate the process of letting go and forgiveness.
Ho’oponopono is a Hawaiian practice that means “to make right” or “to rectify.” It involves four key phrases that can be repeated as a mantra during meditation individually or all together, throughout the day to help let go of negative emotions and cultivate forgiveness. These phrases are:
- I’m sorry
- Please forgive me
- Thank you
- I love you
The idea behind ho’oponopono is that by saying these phrases, we are taking responsibility for our own thoughts and emotions and acknowledging our interconnectedness with others. This can help us to let go of anger, resentment, and blame and cultivate a sense of peace and forgiveness.
To practice ho’oponopono meditation, find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down. Take a few deep breaths cleanse and heal yourself, then bring to mind the person or situation that you are struggling to forgive. Repeat the four phrases of ho’oponopono in your mind or out loud, focusing on each phrase and its meaning. Allow yourself to feel the emotions that come up, and continue to cleanse clear and heal as you repeat the phrases until you feel a sense of release and peace.
Ho’oponopono meditation can be a helpful tool to facilitate the process of forgiveness, but it is important to note that forgiveness is a personal and individual journey. It may take time and effort to work through difficult emotions and come to a place of forgiveness, and seeking support from a therapist or counselor may be helpful for some people.
When it comes to managing anger and practicing forgiveness, there are several strategies that can be helpful. These may include:
- Taking a step back and giving yourself time to cool down before reacting to a situation that has triggered anger.
- Identifying the underlying emotions and needs that are driving the anger, and finding healthy ways to meet those needs.
- Practicing self-care and stress-reduction techniques, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Communicating assertively and respectfully with others, rather than resorting to aggressive or passive-aggressive behaviors.
- Seeking support from a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.
Ultimately, both anger and forgiveness are important parts of our human experience. Learning to manage anger effectively and practice forgiveness can lead to greater emotional and relational well-being, and help us lead more fulfilling lives.
The services offered by the Meta-Healing Balancing Center, including Applied Psychology (NLP) techniques, can be effective in supporting individuals to manage their anger and cultivate forgiveness. However, it is important to note that each individual’s experience is unique and the techniques used must be tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. Seeking support from trained professionals can be a helpful way for individuals to navigate the process of anger management and forgiveness and find the most effective approach for their situation.
