Today, June 26, is “Forgiveness Day”. I think every day should be forgiveness day, what about you?
The act of forgiveness can have positive effects on various aspects of health and well-being, including potential benefits for reducing inflammation.
Following are five ways forgiveness may influence inflammation:
Stress Reduction: Holding onto grudges, anger, and resentment can contribute to chronic stress and pain, which is associated with increased inflammation in the body. Forgiveness helps release negative emotions and promotes emotional healing, leading to reduced stress, pain levels, and lower levels of inflammation.
Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Unresolved anger and resentment can negatively impact emotional well-being, leading to increased levels of depression and anxiety. These mental health conditions have been linked to higher levels of inflammation. Forgiveness improves emotional health and potentially lowers risk of depression, anxiety, and inflammation, especially when other essentials of health are applied. (Learn more of about the essentials of health in my blog post Essentials of Health.)
Improved Immune Function: Chronic inflammation is associated with a compromised immune system. Forgiveness has been found to have positive effects on immune function. Studies suggest that forgiveness interventions can enhance immune response and reduce inflammatory markers. By promoting a healthier immune system, forgiveness may contribute to reduced inflammation in the body.
Development of Trusting Relationships: Unresolved conflicts and grudges in relationships can lead to chronic stress and negative emotions, which are linked to increased inflammation. Forgiveness can facilitate the resolution of conflicts and improve relationship quality. Healthy and supportive relationships are associated with improved mental well-being and reduced stress levels, potentially leading to lower levels of inflammation. Developing healthy, trusting relationships with God and our fellowmen is essential for achieving one’s best health.
Healthier Coping Mechanisms: Holding onto anger and resentment can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse or emotional eating, which can contribute to inflammation and other health issues. By practicing forgiveness, individuals can adopt healthier coping strategies, such as stress management techniques, seeking social support, or engaging in self-care activities such as the Start a New YOU!® Program. These healthier coping mechanisms can positively influence inflammation levels.
It's important to note that forgiveness is a complex process, and in some, if not most, cases, forgiveness may be a process and not just words spoken. Additionally, forgiveness should not be considered a standalone solution for health issues related to inflammation. It is advisable to seek guidance from mental health professionals and healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive approach to managing inflammation and overall well-being.
The Start a New YOU!® Program addresses Forgiveness and Trusting Relationship in detail. This is part of our holistic program. We also provide participants with other opportunities and resources they can tap into to help them walk through the forgiveness process.
To learn more about our Start a New YOU® Holistic and Bible-based program call us today at 479-363-6585 or click the links below.
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