In 2019, Rasmussen, et al published a meta-analysis examining the many benefits of forgiving others. Their findings included, but were not limited to, the fact that forgiveness can reduce depression, stress, and anxiety as well as improve overall emotional wellbeing and help you develop a more optimistic outlook on life. In addition, forgiveness can boost physical health by lowering stress levels which can translate to a healthier immune system, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health whereas anger and resentment have been associated with increased inflammation in the body as we age.
Overall, giving up resentment and leaning into forgiveness can reduce our susceptibility to inflammation-related illnesses, heart disease, and cancer, improve mental clarity, and deepen and enrich out connections with each other and ourselves. But this review, the articles included, and most literature on the subject also agree on what fundamental thing: forgiveness is a skill to be practiced if you wish to reap the full benefits.
Ready to give it a try? Check out this exercise, the REACH Technique, from “Five Steps to Forgiveness: The Art and Science of Forgiving” by Everett Worthington, Ph.D.