FORGIVENESS: The Way to Holistic Well-Being

A K Srivastava A K Srivastava,Suryalee Athwaria Suryalee Athwaria

doi:10.25215/0304.177

A K Srivastava A K Srivastava, Suryalee Athwaria Suryalee Athwaria

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.25215/0304.177

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Abstract

In an era of globalization where generations believe in lawsuits, it can sometimes seem like forgiveness is a concept from TretaYug (Era of Ramayan, the Hindu mythology) or Biblical times. However starting from last two decades of 20th century, developmental, social and clinical psychologists have begun to study the concept of forgiveness more intensively and scientifically(McCullough,2000).A wealth of research suggests that Forgiveness is a form of healing that considers the whole person- body, mind, spirit, and emotions- to achieve optimal health and well-being. Studies have found that the act of forgiveness can reap huge rewards for our health, lowering the risk of heart attack; improving cholesterol levels & sleep; reducing pain, blood pressure, and levels of anxiety, depression and stress. Research points to an increase in the forgiveness-health connection as we age. Thus, field of psychology needs a proactive, positive approach emphasizing strengths, rather than continuing in the downward spiral of negativity trying to fix weaknesses.

Highlights

In an era of globalization where generations believe in lawsuits, it can sometimes seem like forgiveness is a concept from TretaYug (Era of Ramayan, the Hindu mythology) or Biblical times
The aim of review is to explore the connections between forgiveness and physical, mental, and spiritual health, positivity resulted from the act of forgiveness, association between mental health issues such as anxiety and depression and un-forgiveness
If we extend the findings from related literatures we might come to the conclusion that un-forgiveness has a negative impact on physical health

Summary

Introduction

In an era of globalization where generations believe in lawsuits, it can sometimes seem like forgiveness is a concept from TretaYug (Era of Ramayan, the Hindu mythology) or Biblical times. Most scholars agree that forgiveness occurs when an offended party chooses to abandon resentment, negative judgment, bitterness, and indifferent behavior in response to an offense (Enright, et al, 1992). Forgiveness, is a conscious choice to replace negativity with positivity, and it is inherently social since it occurs in relationship to other individuals, not to inanimate objects.

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Conclusion