Forgiveness is more than just an action or a concept. We all know how powerful it feels when you let go of the anger or attachment of pain when we’ve been hurt by someone’s actions. A higher love takes us over. A deep sense of relief is felt.

But did you know that there are some very practical aspects to forgiveness as well?

According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some other perks to genuinely forgiving and letting go:

Researchers have recently become interested in studying the effects of being unforgiving and being forgiving. Evidence is mounting that holding on to grudges and bitterness results in long-term health problems. Forgiveness, on the other hand, offers numerous benefits, including:

• Lower blood pressure
• Stress reduction
• Less hostility
• Better anger management skills
• Lower heart rate
• Lower risk of alcohol or substance abuse
• Fewer depression symptoms
• Fewer anxiety symptoms
• Reduction in chronic pain
• More friendships
• Healthier relationships
• Greater religious or spiritual well-being
• Improved psychological well-being

8-year old Felix Pepin had a crash course in driving…luckily not literally!

His mother, Dahianara Sanchez, who suffers from diabetes, started experiencing dangerously low blood sugar while driving her car several weeks ago through West Reading, Pennsylvania. Suddenly, she lost her sight

“All of a sudden my vision started going a little bit flaky and I told Felix, ‘I’m losing my vision,’” Dahianara said.

Felix then jumped into action, giving his mom verbal driving instructions.

“I told her which lane to go in and which lane not to go in,” Felix said.

The vehicle traveled several blocks before Felix discovered a spot to pull over. That’s when Dihianara finally blacked out.

“I put the car in park and I took my mom’s phone and dialed 911,” Felix said.

“When asked how it feels to be a hero, Felix replied it was scary at first, but now it makes him feel happy.”

Ah, a reluctant hero…that’s what all good stories are about!