Forgiveness is Wellness

Forgiveness can be a powerful tool in boosting one’s immune system. When we experience being wronged, disrespected, or abused by someone physically or emotionally, our brain manufactures chemicals designed to protect and defend us. Our brain does not distinguish between emotional or physical attacks and will react this way to either situation.

These protective chemicals activate white cells that serve to destroy anything that may be hazardous to our health and, in chronic or ongoing situations, can be a precursor and, in part, the cause of chronic stress and diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, anxiety and depression, and some cancers. This inflammatory condition will also make us more susceptible to bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause colds, flu, and other infections.

Practicing forgiveness will reduce and eliminate these inflammatory chemicals and reduce the risk of chronic stress and disease. Instead, forgiveness triggers the release of relaxing substances that do not activate white cells. These relaxing chemicals soothe and restore the body to improved good health.

Forgiveness may not be easy, but it can be learned through meditation, prayer, deep breathing, or mantras. If you need someone to assist you in your learning, there are anger management classes and support groups or counselors and other talk therapists trained to help you learn to let go of anger and resentment.

However you choose to go about this, learning to forgive will undoubtedly be in your best interest, reducing your risk of chronic disease, improving your relationships with others, and general outlook on life.

Forgive others and forgive yourself---it’s a beautiful way to live.

By Sharry Smith