Welcome to Episode 25 How to Forgive and Find Peace: Reflecting on Forgiveness, where Dr Marcus and Charlie dive into the science and practice of letting go.

Together, we explore what forgiveness really means, for others and for ourselves, and how it can transform resentment, anger, and pain into peace and freedom.

From self-forgiveness to shifting the spotlight back to your own healing, this episode unpacks the psychology of forgiveness, the health benefits it brings, and practical tools for moving forward when justice may never come.

We explore:

• Why forgiveness is about peace, not reconciliation ⚖️

• How self-forgiveness transforms shame into growth 💡

• The REACH model of forgiveness: Recall, Empathise, Altruistic gift, Commit, Hold on 🌱

• Why forgiveness improves mental and physical health 🧠💓

• How to let go without minimising harm or denying pain ✨

🛠 Practical Advice for Listeners

1. Shift the Spotlight Back to You

2. Release the Need for Justice Move to Peace

3. Allow Time

4. Redefine Relationships Post-Forgiveness

5. Empathise with the offender

6. Forgive Yourself, Too

📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration and Wellbeing & Joy

📚 References cited in this episode:

• Worthington Jr, E. L. (2013). Forgiveness and reconciliation: Theory and application. Routledge.

• Worthington, E. L., & Scherer, M. (2004). Forgiveness is an emotion-focused coping strategy that can reduce health risks and promote health resilience: theory, review, and hypotheses. Psychology and Health, 19(3), 385–405. https://doi.org/10.1080/0887044042000...

• Woodyatt, L., & Wenzel, M. (2013). Self-Forgiveness and restoration of an offender following an interpersonal transgression. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 32(2), 225–259. https://doi.org/10.1521/jscp.2013.32....