Aggression, cheating, betrayal, broken trust, insensitivity, etc. can be hard to forgive. Whether it is someone saying an insensitive comment or physical abuse, moving on can be a challenge. Letting go takes strength, it is not easy to forgive people who have hurt us. It is a lot easier to push people away then it is to move forward. However, it is detrimental to your mental health…and sometimes even your physical health. Forgiveness is often confused with condoning the behavior that was done. This is not the case! You are not condoning the behavior that was done, you are choosing move on. It is about letting go of bitterness, grudges, negative thoughts and feelings towards a person.
The most challenging part of forgiveness is to let go of what happened. We often struggle with moving past the anger and hurt surrounding the situation. It is okay to be upset about what happened, but in order to heal we must move forward. Dwelling on the situation only holds you back from happiness.
There are many benefits of forgiveness, including:
Healthier relationships.
Improved mental health.
Less anxiety, stress and hostility.
Lower blood pressure.
Fewer symptoms of depression.
A stronger immune system.
Improved heart health.
Improved self-esteem.
How to Forgive
The first thing to remember is that forgiveness is for YOU! You are cutting off the emotional ties you have to that situation. You are letting go. You are moving on. You are healing. You are becoming a better version of yourself. You are stronger than ever! Forgiveness is a sign of strength not weakness. You are choosing to leave the situation in the past. The past is the past, and now you can look forward to a brighter and optimistic future with no hate in your heart. There is an old saying, “unforgiveness is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die”. Forgiveness sounds a lot better than that!
Start Thriving
If you are struggling with forgiveness we are here for you! We understand that letting go is a difficult step to take on your healing journey and you do not have to figure it out on your own. Our therapists are here to help guide you through the steps of forgiveness and healing. Check out our very own Brett Glazmann give a talk on the benefits of letting go, click here.
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