Hey there. I’m wearing a shirt right now that says The Gym AND Therapy “get yours here”. That wording matters because, for me, both are important. When it comes to calming my mind, focusing my thoughts, and releasing pent-up energy, the gym is one of the best mental health tools I have. But it’s not the only one.
Walking outside helps me slow down and connect with my emotions. There’s something about fresh air, movement, and being in nature that clears my head like nothing else. Yoga, on the other hand, teaches me to be present. When I focus on how my body feels from head to toe, I carry that awareness into my daily life. It helps me recognize stress before it builds and allows me to be more in tune with myself.
And then there’s talk therapy. I’ve been working with my therapist for three years, and what makes it different from everything else is how it forces me to confront things I might not see or want to see. My therapist calls out my blind spots in a way that feels supportive but honest. That’s the key difference between therapy and other mental health tools. Exercise and movement are amazing, but they don’t always challenge my thinking the way therapy does.
Mental and emotional health are just as important as physical health. If I’m being honest, when I wasn’t working on my mental health regularly, even getting out of bed felt like a struggle some days. That’s why I believe in using multiple tools to take care of myself. Some days, I need movement. Other days, I need to talk things through. It all matters.
I also recognize that not everyone has access to therapy. There are so many barriers cost, availability, and even the time it takes to build the trust needed to open up. That’s why finding what you can do for your mental health is so important. Maybe for you, it’s journaling, reading, or creative pursuits. Maybe it’s long walks or strength training. The important thing is that you find what works and make it a priority.
At the end of the day, taking care of yourself inside and out is what matters most. That’s going to look different for each of us, and that’s okay. The key is to figure out what helps you feel your best and make time for it.
If you’re looking for a way to work on your health from the inside out, join The YLF Experience. It’s all about creating a sustainable approach to fitness and wellness that fits your life.