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 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.
Links mentioned in today’s podcast: Forgiveness
Damage to the prefrontal cortex increases utilitarian moral judgements [Koenigs, et al, 2007]
A social-neuroscience perspective on empathy. Current Directions in Psychological Science
Granting forgiveness or harboring grudges: Implications for emotion, physiology, and health
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