How to Find the Freedom of Forgiveness

Since forgiveness is vital for physical & mental health, we must master it. When tormenting memories surface, our cortisol &adrenaline surge. Perhaps literally take a quick walk with Jesus to calm this neurological &physiological storm. & honestly name your emotions—for feelings buried alive never die.
Then remember Christ was there. Ask him to heal those memories. We are caterpillars in a ring of fire, as Martin Luther wrote–unable to rescue ourselves. We need God’s help.
Accept what happened &draw a line under it. Then, as the Apostle Paul says, give thanks in everything because God can bring good out of it.
Finally, just forgive. Say out loud, I forgive you for —. You are setting a captive free. Yourself.
When agonising memories arise, say: “No. Not going there.” Don’t waste your time & emotional energy or let the past poison today. Refuse to allow re-injury
So keep trying to forgive, with God’s help, until you realise that you have done it& can remember the past without agitation