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wisdom and wellness

Writer's pictureJenna Jahnz

The Power of Forgiveness: Releasing and Renewing for Healing and Growth

Updated: Jul 8, 2023

Yesterday marked global forgiveness day, signifying an opportunity to liberate ourselves from negative emotions and reclaim our personal power over our emotional well-being


Waterfall-signifying-forgivness-healing-and-growth
Let Water Flow in You and Out of You, For Water is Life

Forgiveness is a powerful, transformative act that allows us to break free from the shackles of resentment, anger, and pain, empowering us to regain control over our emotional well-being.


It presents us with a chance to release the heavy burdens that weigh on our minds and hearts, paving the way for a profound sense of inner peace.


It's important to note that forgiveness does not mean condoning or forgetting the hurtful actions inflicted upon us or others.


Rather, it involves a conscious decision to release the heaviness of pain and sadness that may be holding us back from truly moving forward in life.


Stoic philosophy reminds us that, while we cannot control the actions of others, we have the power to control our reactions. In forgiveness lies the strength to release resentment and find peace within.


The benefits of Forgiveness


Forgiveness is not always an easy feat; it can be a challenging process that requires time, self-reflection, and significant inner work.


It is a personal journey that varies for each individual, depending on the circumstances involved.

However, embracing forgiveness offers remarkable benefits for our well-being as it liberates us from emotional weight.

It enhances mental and emotional health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, restoring harmony in relationships, fostering empathy and compassion.

Moreover, forgiveness empowers us to control our emotions and thoughts, determining how we channel our energy.


It is a courageous choice that propels personal growth and shapes our life's narrative.


Steps to Attaining Forgiveness


One effective exercise for forgiveness involves four steps: Acknowledge, Feel, Release, and Seek Gratitude.

  1. Acknowledge: Write and reflect upon the situation, acknowledging the pain and hurt inflicted upon you or others. Allow yourself to feel the associated emotions, naming and acknowledging each one.

  2. Feel: Practice empathy and compassion by seeking to understand the situation from another's perspective, including their motivations or reasoning.

  3. Release: Make a conscious decision to release resentment and the desire for revenge. Use affirming words such as "I will let this go" to solidify your intention.

  4. Seek Gratitude: Conclude the practice by seeking gratitude. Express gratitude for who you are as a person, for the one who caused the pain, or for humanity in general. Cultivate appreciation for the good in your life and fill your heart with gratitude.


When the timing is right, consider having an open and honest conversation, if appropriate and safe, to express your feelings and perspectives.


Establish healthy boundaries to protect yourself from future harm.


Remember that you can seek support from trusted individuals, therapists, or spiritual guides who can provide guidance and assistance throughout this process.


Engage in self-care practices that promote your overall well-being, embracing personal growth and resilience.


Recognize that forgiveness is an ongoing journey that unfolds over time, and be patient with yourself as you navigate this transformative path.


So, as we move forward, let us actively seek forgiveness and allow its transformative effects to take place in our overall health and well-being, fostering a life filled with peace, joy, and emotional harmony.


Much Appreciation,

Jenna Leigh XO

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