Research done at the University of Glasgow Caledonian, in partnership with the University of Edinburgh Napier, found that holding a grudge affects emotional and physical health.
The researchers found that if you feel any pain, holding a grudge increases the chances of the pain being more intense and more frequent.
For example: people who suffer from migraines, when they maintain this feeling, can have stronger crises and with more continuity.
The researchers believe that rabies activates an alert sensor, generated by adrenaline and known as “fight or flee”. When activated, the pressure rises and the cardiac and respiratory rhythms are accelerated.
If such stress is maintained in the body, it is more difficult to relax and slow down these functions. Thus, it is easier to develop heart or psychological illnesses.
Read more: Child abuse can cause depression in adulthood
The researchers agreed that to avoid grudge, it is important to forgive.
Reflecting on the cause of anger, practicing some type of meditation, trying to empathize with the other person and forgiving yourself are steps that can help to forgive.