How to Exercise Your Emotions in 4 Steps

Are you emotionally fit? Do you let past experiences dictate your present – and possibly your future?

Wellness coach and podcast host Chase Chewning had a growing career, was in the best physical shape of his life, and in a committed relationship with the girl of his dreams. There was just one problem: his past was holding him back.

Chase had overcome physical injuries by adhering to his rehabilitation plan, kicking off a lifelong commitment to physical fitness. What if he could use what he learned to exercise his emotions? This led Chase on a journey to make peace with is past and lean into new possibilities. Today, he helps others do the same.

Ready to strengthen your emotional health? Here are 4 key principles from the fitness world that Chase recommends:

1. Admit It

You don’t start making lifestyle changes until you admit it’s time to do so. The same can be said for your emotional health.

 Be willing to admit what’s holding you back.

This might be easier said than done. Our culture is making great strides when it comes to the stigma around mental health, but we’re not all the way there. You or those in your circle may feel uncomfortable when you begin exploring this part of your life. That’s okay. That first trip back to the gym is never easy, either.

2. Tune In

There is great power in the collective voice, and lucky for you there is a wealth of expert teachers and guides ready to help you on your journey.

Depending on your individual experience, explore books, articles, and podcasts on the subject or subjects that fit your needs. Make time to tune into voices that will keep you informed, inspired and moving forward.

3. Be Still

In order to get started, you’re going to need to stop first. Why? The key to exploring your emotions is to be still enough to hear them.

Introduce stillness into your life through peaceful practices such as yoga, meditation, or journaling. Noting your feelings can bring to the surface moments from your past you don’t even realize are holding you back.

Will it always be easy? No. Will it always feel good? Most certainly not. Like a new workout routine, the key is to make it a priority and stick to it.

4. Call a Professional

If you’ve ever joined a gym, they probably offered a free personal training session as part of your membership. One reason for this is so that you learn how to properly use the equipment available, leading to better progress and less injury.

Sometimes, the only way to go further is with the help of a professional. Therapy can reenforce your own plan as well as introduce you to the right tools for individual emotional success.

Strengthen your emotional health and make peace with your past. Then you’ll be ready to lean into new possibilities.