How Letting Go Can Benefit Your Relationships and Well Being.

The Neuroscience of forgiveness: Letting Go for Personal and Professional Fulfillment

The Neuroscience of Forgiveness

Letting Go for Personal and Professional Fulfillment

The Neuroscience of forgiveness letting go for personal and professional fulfillment

The Neuroscience of Forgiveness for Veterinary Professionals – Vet Staff Podcast #147 – Letting Go for Personal and Professional Fulfillment.

In today’s episode, part 2 of our series on forgiveness, we dive into the  world of neuroscience.

Julie South explores how forgiveness impacts our brains, from the specific regions involved to the neurochemical changes that take place.

She talks about how the science behind letting go of resentment and how it can lead to lasting contentment and success.

Timestamps and quotes from today’s podcast

The Neuroscience of forgiveness for Veterinary Professionals

Positive Changes in the Brain when Forgiving

Forgiveness has been linked to positive changes in the brain.

When we actively engage in forgiveness, it reduces stress and decreases activity in the amygdala which is associated with negative emotions like anger and fear.

In addition, forgiving thoughts lead to increased activity in brain regions associated with positive emotions, such as the ventral striatum.

These changes not only improve our mental well-being but also have potential health benefits.

Empathy’s Role in Forgiveness

Empathy, a significant factor in forgiveness, activates brain regions such as the mirror neuron system and the tempoporoparital junction (TPJ).

When we empathise with the person we’re forgiving, these regions kick into action, enhancing our understanding of their perspective. Walking in their shoes makes forgiveness more likely, fostering a sense of compassion and connection.

Positive Changes in the Brain when Forgiving

Empathy, a significant factor in forgiveness, activates brain regions such as the mirror neuron system and the temporoparietal junction (TPJ).

When we empathise with the person we’re forgiving, these regions kick into action, enhancing our understanding of their perspective.

Walking in their shoes makes forgiveness more likely, fostering a sense of compassion and connection.

Neuroplasticity and Forgiveness

Oxytocin which is often called the love or bonding hormone, plays a role in forgiveness by promoting positive social interaction and reducing feelings of resentment.

This neurochemical change, which lies deep within our brains enhances social bonding and fosters trust, further strengthens relationships.

The Impact of Forgiveness on Stress Responses

Forgiveness isn’t just essential for repairing relationships. It also positively impacts our physical and mental health.

When we forgive, it influences our body’s stress responses. Negative stress, which can have adverse effects, can be mitigated through forgiveness. By understanding and embracing forgiveness, we can reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.

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Julie South
Julie South loves helping veterinarians, veterinary nurses and veterinary technicians find their next fantastic job - whether it's locum or permanent. Living, loving and working in New Zealand she's proud of the fact she's local and can help kiwi vet clinics find their next locum or permanent vet.