Paula Patton Says Running Brings Her Peace After A Rough Few Years

Ever since the word got out that Robin Thicke and Paula Patton called it quits in 2014, things have been tumultuous for the former couple. Both of their careers have stumbled a bit, Thicke lost his famous father, Alan, and the pair found themselves caught up in a heated custody battle for son Julian, 7, where all sorts of allegations were made. It was an ugly time.

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But things are looking up for Patton. She’s the star of a new drama on ABC called Somewhere Between. It’s about a mother who learns that her child will be murdered in the near future and does everything in her power to keep that from happening. She’s also finding some solace from all of the drama of the last few years by getting back into running. It hasn’t been an easy endeavor (it requires a lot of motivation), but the runner’s high soothes the 41-year-old.

“It’s kind of a love-hate with running,” she said in an interview with PEOPLE. “It’s always like, ‘Oh God, can I do it?’ And once I begin, it helps me settle myself and give clarity.”

Patton also has returned to doing yoga. In the past she also said she was a big fan of kickboxing, Pilates and weight training, which has all helped her maintain her toned and strong physique. And in preparation for the action films she’s done over the last few years, Patton has done some intense training, including sword and knife work for the 2016 film Warcraft.

But even when physical fitness doesn’t keep her feet firmly planted on cloud nine, Patton is determined not to let her personal troubles get the best of her.

“At the end of the day, it’s best to move forward,” Patton said. “I’m in that part of my life right now where there’s huge changes. You have to find your way, and I think I’m on that discovery.”