by : Dr. Kevin Kilday, PhD, D.PSc. , Holistic Health Center,
Nearly everyone has been hurt by the actions or words of another, but if you don’t practice forgiveness, you might be the one who pays the price with disease in particular cancer.
Studies have shown that unforgiveness definitely affects the body and cancer. As reported by the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee: “Extremely low anger scores have been noted in numerous studies of patients with cancer. Such low scores suggest suppression, repression, or restraint of anger. There is evidence to show that suppressed anger can be a precursor to the development of cancer, and also a factor in its progression after diagnosis.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean that you deny the other person’s responsibility for hurting you, and it doesn’t minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the act.
Letting go of resentments, anger, grudges and bitterness can make way for hope, gratitude, joy, happiness, and peace. All of these positive emotions helps in the defeat of cancer.
Forgiveness can also lead to healthier relationships, greater spiritual and psychological well-being, less anxiety, stress and hostility, lower blood pressure, less depression and overall better health. I go into much more detail about how specifically anxiety, stress, and depression affects the outcome of cancer in my Winning Against Cancer Program. See www.holistichealthcenter.us
One of the most important effects of forgiveness is that it strengthens the immune system. Suppression of toxic negative emotions increases stress hormone cortisol levels, depletes melatonin and dopamine levels, depletes B vitamins, vitamin C, and much more. These directly suppress immune system function. When the immune system is not functioning properly, normal cells mutate into cancer cells then cancer thrives.
Many people are better able to better cope with cancer and treatment with the help of a strong support system–talking with friends, family, clergy, support group or a counselor. If you need help with toxic negative emotions or Alternative Cancer Solutions contact the following.
Dr. Kevin Kilday, PhD, D.PSc. , Holistic Health Center, 321-549-0711, By Appointment Only, Offices in 4 Brevard locations