A report, published in the Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource, said holding a grudge appears to affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

One study found that people who focused on a personal grudge had elevated blood pressure and heart rates, as well as increased muscle tension and feelings of being less in control. The tension dissipated when participants imagined forgiving the person, the Mayo Clinic said Wednesday in a news release.

The report said forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting, condoning or excusing whatever happened. It's acknowledging hurt and then letting it go, along with the burden of anger and resentment. The Mayo Clinic recommended talking with a friend, therapist or adviser to help sort through feelings and stay on track.

--
Copyright 2007 by United Press International
All rights reserved
--