In psychological sense, Forgiveness is referred as intentional and voluntary process through which one who feels victimized, undergoes a change in feelings and attitude about an offence to overcome negative emotions. In simple terms, forgiveness means to let go of anger and resentment which will lead you to a state of better healing and peace.
Studies show that forgiveness can help to lower stress hormones, lower blood pressure, strengthen immune system and reduce other body pains.
Here, forgiveness doesn’t mean that whatever happened or whomsoever did that is OK rather it means that one should let go of need for an apology or a revenge to make peace with past hurt and pain. Forgiveness is easy to say but hard to do.
We all have certain past hurts and pain but we often observe that some people will keep suffering for a longer period of time and some may overcome it within a shorter period of time. Why is it so? The major reason is those who forget and forgive would be able to move on in their life, they heal faster and live a peaceful life.
How unforgiveness affects you?
Low energy
Sadness
Depression
Anxiety
Benefits of Forgiving;
Increases happiness
Reduces anxiety
Decreases depression
Ways to practice forgiveness;
People tend to ignore or avoid the hurt and emotional pain they go through and then it explodes in full-blown rage. Accept that you can’t change the past or reverse the pain. Even your anger towards the person will not redeem what they have done to you already. So, thoughtfully consider whether or not you want to forgive.
When someone does something to you, identify your feelings or emotions like anger, regret, stress etc. Take your time. This work may churn up a lot of old emotions, pain & hurts, deep inside you, let them surface out. Because those emotions unconsciously drive us, reminding painful experiences again & again.
Human Nature holds on to anger pretty tightly and probably the hurt is so deep that you are not ready to let it go. But holding on to anger produces stress chemicals harming yourself, physically and emotionally. Thus, forgiveness is for you.
Take up your decision from mind that you are willing to forgive.
Forgive a person who has done wrong with you. If you don’t want to forgive verbally, you can also do it silently. Forgiveness takes immense courage. The only thing that matters is you have found a way to let go and move on.
Your sufferings can be deep and terrible but not unique. Realize that you are not alone in that, others experience similar pain and hurts. Consider how you have grown and changed as a result of life experiences. Self-forgiveness is equally important so make sure you are free from the emotional prison.