Date: 09-Jul-2023
Location: 12 Project villages
Around 200 women from the 12 project villages of SARVAM participated in the Forgiveness and Well-Being programme conducted in connection to Global Forgiveness Day from July 7 to July 9.
Global Forgiveness Day is observed on July 7 every year to encourage forgiveness as part of an element of personal health.
Practising forgiveness can have powerful health benefits. Observational studies, and even some randomised trials, suggest that forgiveness is associated with lower levels of depression, anxiety, hostility, reduced substance abuse, higher self-esteem and greater life satisfaction.
Quotes of the Mother and Sri Aurobindo on forgiveness were read by the AuroSakhis to mark the beginning of the programme.
The programme aimed to help the women cope with anger, resentment and hurt. The programme encouraged them to find strength and resilience to forgive and move forward with their lives. The event focused on a powerful thought of unity and healing.
The women shared their stories during the programme, prayed together, and celebrated the newfound peace. The event had a lasting impact on the women, allowing them to forgive and let go of the past.
The programme focused on the benefits of forgiveness for health and well-being. It was pointed out that research has shown that those who practice forgiveness experience reduced stress, improved relationships and overall happiness. In
addition, forgiveness has been linked to better physical health, including reductions in inflammation and blood pressure, and it also has been associated with improved mental health, including lower levels of anxiety and depression.
Women realised that practising forgiveness can help to reduce negative emotions and improve overall mental well-being. Towards the end of the event, they felt empowered and inspired and vowed to spread the message of forgiveness far and wide.