Forgiveness for Health – Reflections from the “Closer to Psychology” Symposium

On November 18, 2025, I had the pleasure of serving as a keynote speaker at the 3rd Symposium in the Closer to Psychology series, held at the University of Białystok under the theme “How Do We Understand Others and Ourselves?”. My lecture, “Forgiveness for Health: How Forgiveness Shapes Our Body, Mind, and Social Bonds,” explored the biopsychosocial–spiritual mechanisms linking forgiveness to mental and physical well-being. Drawing on empirical evidence and neuropsychological research, I discussed how forgiveness reduces stress, promotes emotional release, strengthens relationships, and even manifests in measurable brain activity related to self-regulation and empathy.

It was a stimulating and inspiring event that brought together researchers and practitioners to reflect on understanding, compassion, and human connection. I am deeply grateful to the organizers, Prof. Alicja Korzeniecka-Bondar and Prof. Małgorzata Niesiobędzka, and to the Faculty of Education at the University of Białystok for the invitation and warm welcome. Events like this remind us that psychology, at its best, bridges science and humanity, helping us understand both others and ourselves.