Forgiveness for Good Health

In recent years, the scientific community has been actively exploring the mind-body connection. In its simplest terms, this means that our thoughts and emotions can affect our health. A study published in the “American Journal of Cardiology” found that forgiveness protects heart health, while negative emotions have a toxic effect on the heart. Another scientific study that demonstrated the benefits of forgiving was done with type II diabetes patients. Dr. Ece Yazla from the Department of Psychiatry at Hitit University in Turkey and others discovered that as patients forgave more and more, the stress caused by the disease became less and less. The quality of relationships between the participants and their loved ones improved. Also, they were more able to cope with their health situation and had more support from others. Forgiving can improve our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It’s good for our own peace of mind, happiness, and health. Apart from the mind-body connection, spiritually speaking, forgiveness is ending the negative thoughts and resolving the negative karma with another person. Once we forgive by dropping the negative feelings toward others or ourselves, we will feel lighter and happier.