Hooponopono (ho-o-pono-pono) is an ancient Hawaiian practice of reconciliation and forgiveness. Similar forgiveness practices were performed on islands throughout the South Pacific, including Samoa, Tahiti and New Zealand. Traditionally hooponopono is practiced by healing priests or kahuna lapaau among family members of a person who is physically ill. Modern versions are still performed within the family by a family elder, or by the individual alone. In recent years, thanks to authors such as Joe Vitale and Dr.