Great question.

The idea of using exercise as a key component of Vessel’s Leadership Program was ignited by my own experience in the gym.

Training for powerlifting means that I push for personal records (PRs) often. One day, I broke through a mental and physical plateau and lifted more than I thought possible (see video below). Immediately, I broke into tears and felt a rush of numerous emotions. I had a victorious sense of overcoming, but I also was able to process grief and difficult emotions that had been stored deep inside.

Later, after reflecting upon the experience and researching the mind-body connection in strength training, I realized that exercise was the key to unlocking so much of my mind. It was the key to unlocking healing. It was the key to unlocking victory.

Therefore, when I set out to create a youth leadership development program, I knew exercise would be a crucial key to my students’ success as well.