Can holding a grudge affect my health?

Holding on to a grudge, much like holding on to a fresh-from-the-oven brownie tray, will leave a mark. While the latter needs no explanation, here’s an example of the former. Consider the commonly held myth that ‘having a good bitch’ has cathartic benefits. It usually starts out as an exorcism and ends with you feeling like a worse human than the one you’ve roundly lambasted for the past 15 minutes. Let’s look at this logistically. First, there’s the sheer paperwork of holding a grudge. Having to resent Julie from accounts forever means having to call to mind that pass-agg email every time her name infiltrates your inbox. That’s a lot of headspace you’re giving her. Yes, her use of ellipses was barbed, but, come on, chill. Grudge-holding also brings an emotional burden. It’s basically being angry, indefinitely, and why be vexed when you could be plenty of other, much more pleasant, emotions? Here’s a thought: why not try forgiveness on for size? It’s free, it leaves you looking like the bigger (and better) person and it comes scientifically approved, with studies suggesting it’s good for your mental health. To echo the earworm you’ve been trying to shake since December: let it go.