Forgiveness: Why Your Health Depends On It

When somebody wrongs us, it’s easy to replay that scene in our minds and commit to holding a grudge. It makes us uneasy and restless. But nearly everybody can benefit from becoming more forgiving. It doesn’t matter if it’s a major or minor grudge. Learning to forgive others boosts your own psychological well-being and physical health. What are common misconceptions about forgiveness?

Many people assume that forgiveness means letting the other person off the hook. But psychologists emphasize that forgiveness doesn’t have to require reconciliation with the other person. Rather, forgiveness is an internal concept. It occurs through your own reflection, meditation and refocus of your attention. In this way, empathy and acceptance builds you up. As T.D Jakes said, forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

Another misconception about offering forgiveness is that it’s a sign of weakness. We often praise others for being strong and hardy when they commit to holding a grudge. On the contrary, this doesn’t hold true when it comes to the physical effects of anger.

Chronic resentment wreaks havoc on our emotional and physical well-being. Those who forgive have lower blood pressure, fewer stress-related health issues and better functioning immune systems. Forgiveness is linked with reduced anxiety, depression and major psychiatric disorders. Quite literally, physical health depends on forgiveness.

There is no telling when somebody else will change their behavior or apologize for their actions. Luckily, there’s no need to wait for that. Be proactive in taking charge of your mental health by engaging in forgiveness. Forgive for you. That’s the ultimate act of self-care.