The Three Steps to Teshuvah
There are three categories of Mitzvos: Torah study, compliance with prohibitions, and the fulfillment of the positive commandments. The process of Teshuvah embraces all three categories, following a specific order. The first step of Teshuvah is to engage in Torah study, as per the verse, "you shall listen to His voice." Second, is compliance with the prohibitions, as per the verse, "HaShem will circumcise your heart." Lastly, is the fulfillment of the positive commandments, as per the verse, "you shall do all of the Mizvos."
Lesson: The return to Torah study is the first step of Teshuvah. The study of the holy Torah sanctifies our hearts and imbues our souls with the wisdom of Torah, thereby elevating us with the proper mindset and inspiration to perform Teshuvah.
App. A builder needs to build the foundation before building the first and second floors of the house. So too, when you do Teshuvah, first build your foundation by engaging in Torah study. The Torah will heal your soul and strengthen your heart to successfully fulfill all three steps of Teshuvah.
(Based on the commentary of the Ohr HaChaim)
