The Practice of Forgiveness With Dr. Loren Toussaint
Does time really heal all wounds? In this engaging podcast episode, host Eileen Borris talks with health psychologist Loren Toussaint about the multifaceted nature of forgiveness. They discuss how forgiveness is an intentional process akin to developing healthy habits, debunking the myth that time heals all wounds. The conversation delves into how forgiveness can be practiced daily to improve mental health and social relationships.
Eileen and Loren also explore the role of spirituality in forgiveness and the applicability of forgiveness principles in building cohesive communities. The episode aims to elevate understanding and practice of forgiveness in both personal and political spheres as a means to foster social change.
Dr. Loren Toussaint is a professor of psychology at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. His research examines and encourages “everyday forgiveness” to build resilience and minimize stress in families, schools, healthcare, workplaces, and communities. Everyday forgiveness is taught through the Forgiveness Foundation which is an education and outreach organization emphasizing the role of forgiveness in building resilience and encouraging personal growth. Dr. Toussaint and colleagues recently published a compendium of research titled: Forgiveness and Health: Scientific Evidence and Theories Relating Forgiveness to Better Health.
Where to Find Dr. Toussaint
Facebook: @loren.toussaint
Twitter: @LorenToussaint
LinkedIn: Loren Toussaint
Email: touslo01@luther.edu
luther.edu/faculty/loren-toussaint
Dr. Eileen Borris is a clinical and political psychologist who has pioneered the concept of political forgiveness on the individual, community and national level. She has addressed the United Nations and has worked for over 30 years to build peace in areas of conflict around the world, including Rwanda, South Africa, Liberia, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and the Middle East. Eileen is the author of Finding Forgiveness: A 7 Step Program for Letting Go of Anger and Bitterness and the creator of Healing the Divide, a program that trains leaders and other individuals interested in applying the principles of political forgiveness to transform their lives and create social change.
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Book: Finding Forgiveness: A 7 Step Program for Letting Go of Anger and Bitterness
00:00 Introduction to Political Forgiveness
00:45 Meet Loren Toussaint: Expert on Forgiveness
01:20 Defining Forgiveness: Beyond Letting Go
04:58 The Intentionality of Forgiveness
07:16 Forgiveness as a Daily Practice
12:33 Building Forgiving Communities
21:22 Spiritual Foundations of Forgiveness
31:45 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
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