Finding Freedom Through Forgiveness with Mindfulness

Why Forgiveness Matters

Forgiveness can be one of the most challenging but freeing acts we undertake.

When we hold onto anger or resentment, we keep ourselves tied to pain, replaying old wounds or experiences that leave us feeling hurt or bitter.

Letting go through forgiveness isn’t about excusing others’ actions—it’s about releasing ourselves from the burden of carrying these heavy emotions.

Practicing forgiveness is a journey, but with mindfulness, we can make it a powerful and healing one.

How Mindfulness Helps Us Forgive

Mindfulness allows us to notice and explore the emotions behind our hurt without judgment.

By observing our thoughts and feelings with curiosity, we can uncover the root causes of our pain and resentment. Here’s how mindfulness supports forgiveness:

• Awareness: Mindfulness helps us become aware of when we feel anger or bitterness, allowing us to process these emotions rather than holding them in.

• Non-Judgment: Practicing non-judgmental awareness helps us see others’ actions without labeling them as simply “bad” or “wrong.” This shift can soften our perspective, making forgiveness feel more possible.

• Self-Compassion: We learn to approach our own emotions and responses with gentleness, recognizing that forgiveness is not easy and that we’re allowed to feel hurt before we let it go.

Steps to Practicing Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a process, and mindfulness can guide us through each step:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Notice when anger or resentment comes up. Name the feeling (“I feel hurt” or “I feel disappointed”) and observe where it’s present in your body (tense shoulders, tight jaw).

2. Practice Loving-Kindness: Send compassion to yourself first, then extend it to the person you want to forgive.

3. Shift Perspective: Try to see the situation from a neutral standpoint, observing the other person’s actions and motivations without jumping to judgment. This can help you understand their actions with a sense of perspective and perhaps even empathy.

Closing Thoughts

Forgiveness isn’t always a single decision; it’s a practice, one that you return to over time.

Every mindful moment you spend acknowledging your emotions and softening your perspective is a step closer to healing.

Forgiveness ultimately liberates you, allowing you to move forward with peace and clarity.

Thank you for joining me today.

Best Wishes

David Starikov