Even without April Fool’s pranks, is there tension between you and someone in your life? Studies show that grudges can raise blood pressure and set you up for chronic conditions including depression and heart disease. So use today, Reconciliation Day, to patch things up with these ideas:

• Apologetic action. Saying “I’m sorry” is good for the soul. Try a handwritten apology — it’s more personal than a preprinted card or typed prose, and taking time to describe regret guarantees sincerity… for you and the other person.

• Pardon practice. Forgiveness may come naturally for some, but often it takes work. Shrug off small gripes so you can train yourself to move on from bigger ones.

• Mind over matter. Letting go is sometimes more a process than an event. Don’t be discouraged if it takes time.

Mending fences can be good for your physical and mental health. You can also care for your own total health with mind and body resources on the Healthy Workforce website.