Forgiveness Brings Healing

A 2001 study revealed a correlation between reviewing hurtful memories and measures of the stress response (EMG, heart rate, blood pressure). When subjects were encouraged to think forgiving thoughts, the stress response was diminished. Similar findings were seen in an October 2003 study of 108 college students.

While more research is needed to formally evaluate the health benefits of forgiveness, a number of small studies have shown a number of potential health benefits conferred by forgiveness:

• Decreased anger and negative thoughts
• Decreased anxiety
• Decreased depression and grief
• Decreased vulnerability to substance use

Forgiveness is not forgetting, nor saying that the offence was OK.  It is also not saying that you should have an ongoing relationship with the offender if that is not healthy.  Forgiveness is letting go of the desire for revenge.  I have seen great helaing come to those that are able to process true forgiveness for past hurts.  If you are in need of letting things go,  Contact me.  <>< Mark

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