The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast

1KHO 645: The Cost of Ignoring Our Limitations | Justin Whitmel Earley, The Body Teaches the Soul

Dec 9, 2025
Justin Whitmel Earley, an author and advocate for spiritual formation, discusses his journey through anxiety and the lessons learned from his book, The Body Teaches the Soul. He shares how many of our struggles aren't solved by sheer will but by understanding and respecting our bodily limits. Topics include the transformative powers of box breathing, the significance of Sabbath rest, and how simple daily habits can nurture a healthier family life. Justin underscores that embracing limitations can lead to deeper peace and growth.
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ANECDOTE

Sudden Mental Health Collapse Changed Everything

  • Justin collapsed overnight into panic, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts while trying to think his way out of it.
  • That crisis taught him he couldn't think his way out of embodied problems and had to practice his way out.
INSIGHT

Breath Links Mind, Body, And Spirit

  • Breathing bridges top-down thought and bottom-up feeling because it is the vital function we can consciously control.
  • Box breathing lets the upper brain regulate the lower body and links spiritual prayer to physiological calm.
ADVICE

Practice Box Breathing Daily

  • Do box breathing: inhale, hold, exhale, hold for equal counts (start at four seconds).
  • Repeat for 1–2 minutes and progress slowly to longer counts to reset heart rate and emotions.
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