Tag: Global Health

L-Lament, Don't Forever Linger

L-Lament, Don’t Forever Linger

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH
©KayLaN.Allen


Lamenting can happen and be a part of many times in life, working to process any form of sorrow is the only way to see brighter days. I want you to understand and know that no matter how you feel when something truly tears at your heart that it is okay to express those emotions. You must allow yourself to cry, scream, and let it go at your own pace; no one can force you and no one can tell you that you are not allowed to experience emotions or feelings of lament.


Relationships
Whether we are speaking about a loss or a relationship (friend or family) that you must break away from, memories last a lifetime and no one can tell you how or when to heal. There is such beauty in connecting and bonding with someone that truly cares about you. Breaking away is never easy. I will pray for you and encourage you to do whatever you can to find your peace.


In grieving a deep loss, you know what you need to heal; you know if or when you want to talk, if or when you want to get out of the bed, with who or where you want to go. You will never just get over it, I know this from experience; don’t ever let anyone tell you that you have to move on. I know that your heart feels like it has literally left your body, and I am so sorry that you are hurting. I promise you that “better” and “easier” days are coming.


Inner Brokenness
No matter the source of what may have brought you to the space of brokenness that you may be in, a challenge is always finding the light or any space of positivity; it is okay to go through this patch of time. You are human and I get it; I have felt how are feeling before. 


How it Feels to be Stuck

Feeling stuck in your sorrow, pain, hurts, and disappointment is stifling. It can make you feel empty, lonely, and hopeless. Cemented takes on a whole new meaning when your mind gives you the feeling of being stuck in a situation, place, or frame of thinking.



When to Move On and/or Move Forward
Your timing is your choice, however when something inside of you speaks and says that you need to move forward maybe you should listen. This does not mean that you erase everything, color your hair and change your name; it does not have to be that drastic. It can mean that you make one small change or one new effort to reclaim your happiness. You have to listen to your heart, mind, and soul.


Letting Go Is Freeing
“Letting Go” of your pain, as you see fit and in the way that you deserve can give you a freedom unlike any other. It is like taking the chains off that have been binding you. You will slowly but surely start to feel lighter; the weight of pain or sadness can be unbearable.


Lament is real and all of us experience it at some point in life, the challenge is always climbing out the rubble. I want you to own your emotions, allow yourself to feel whatever it is that you feel, but do what you can to not clutch onto that pain forever. Push through the pain when you can but promise yourself and show yourself that you deserve happiness and peace that you can only find within yourself.


Pray without ceasing; when you are experiencing lament, it is a time to cling to what you know best and that is the love of the Lord, your connection to whatever higher power, or your belief in the will of the Universe. God is always present and even when no one else can understand at the deepest level of your pain, He can and does; so ask Him to help you through it and to help guide you on the path to a new normal and a new realm of happiness.


Think of how many cried out in lament to God in the Bible…
Psalms 130:1-2
“Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord; Lord hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.” Cry out to God. Pray out loud. Go into your prayer closet, no one can judge you on that. I promise that God will hear you and respond according to His will (in His way and time, not yours).


Jeremiah 15:18
“Why is my pain unending and my wound grievous and incurable? You are to me like a deceptive brook, like a spring that fails.” Many people have gone through a time of brokenness or loss of faith…some have even grown angry with God, but even those in Bible times quickly learned the reasons why God does what He does. They learned God teaches lessons, shapes paths, delivers, provides and protects – he will, has always, and is (right now) doing the same for you.


Even Jesus questioned God’s will and actions in the use of the words previously spoken by David (Psalms 22):
“My God, my God why have you forsaken me?” You are not the only one who wants to understand/be understood, wants guidance, and needs clarity – do not be ashamed to ask. He is your Father and he loves you.


You have been given three of examples of people that cried out to God, sought and answer, bore agony, saw loss, faced death and wars and felt immense pain. What you need to remember in your lament is that your pain will not last forever…you hold the key to your peace and happiness and God always saves. 


Jeremiah 15:21
“I will save you from the hands of the wicked and deliver you from the grasp of the cruel.” 


You see! God promises and shows that he cares and understands over and over again. If He has saved and cared for so many before, don’t you know that He is going to do the same for you?!


Your challenge is to pray, have faith, and try your best to find inner happiness; I don’t care what that looks like whether it is taking up piano, violin, or guitar lessons, joining a cycling class, or enjoying small moments of peace by painting via color by number…if it brings you true happiness and is healthy to your mind, body, and soul, please do it.


You are allowed to feel pain, you are allowed to take your time to understand what has happened or is happening, just don’t make or allow that pain (to) alter all that you are. You still deserve to have moments of happiness and to experience pure joy, right? So do what it takes to make that happen, when you are ready. Lament, pray, and do a happiness reach forward; don’t sit in alone forever my dear. Better days are truly coming, I promise. 


Truly seek positivity and light, you won’t regret it. 

***Health Spotlight***
Lyme Disease – a tick-borne disease found globallySymptoms: fever, headache, fatigue, and a skin rash are common. If left untreated – facial paralysis and arthritis are possible.
Prevalence: approx. 30,000 cases a year in US
Treatment: Antibiotics (oral or IV depending on the patient) 
Prevention: Know where to expect ticks (they live in grass, brush, wooded areas and on animals), treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin, use EPA registered repellents, avoid contact with ticks, and check clothing and skin when returning indoors.


Your health is your own to manage, your family’s health is your responsibility, your community’s health is connected to your local leaders, global health is connected to government officials; you see, in some way we all need each other. If you are doing your very best to help yourself and your family then in one way, you are helping many others. Do not wait in your physical pain to get it help, it could be detrimental to your health.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


Empowerment, Global Health, Public Health, Mental Health, Holistic Health, Epidemiology, Mindfulness, Law of Attraction, Grieving, Bereavement, Positivity, Light, Challenges, Loss, Faith, Healing, Universe, God


K- Keen Delight (Appreciating Your Senses)

K- Keen Delight (Appreciating Your Senses)

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


Our senses are some of the most beautiful and useful gifts that we are granted in life. 


When you open your eyes each day you are granted new mercies, a vision of light, a feeling that is new, and a chance to do something new. You have the chance to get even closer to who you are called to be, each day- do you ever think about how lucky you are to do so?


Every day when you rise from your bed, do you really think about being able to use your legs and being able to walk, get yourself from place to place and move about when you get ready to? Walking is something that not everyone is able to do…are you happy and thankful for that function and ability? Do you really think about it and cherish it?


What about the use of your taste buds and sense of smell? Imagine how many delightful things that cross your path that you are able to enjoy and take pleasure in because you have those senses?


No matter which of your regular functions that you do take time to think about, shouldn’t you have a keen delight in each thing?


Keen in this sense is referring to being passionate and enthusiastic.


Everything that you are able to do is special, amazing, a blessing, and such a journey to behold.


What if every day you appreciated (in true delight) all of your senses?


What if you really took the time to smell the roses?


When was the last time you sat still at looked at the beauty of the clouds?


You have your favorite things that you love to eat, do you really appreciate the joy and deliciousness of all that you savor?


Do you savor all that you sense?


Think about it…some of the most wonderful things that you enjoy in life are attached to your senses.


A hug from someone so special to me brings me joy, warmth, and peace. 


It is a blessing to experience the love of life and all within it. Even when your days are tiring, overwhelming and making you feel low, you have so many things to delight in.


Each time that something makes you smile what if took a few extra moments and truly appreciated that feeling?


In keen delight, value and appreciate everything wonderful that your senses bring to you.


Imagine a life where you could not experience the blessing of sense and feelings…you would miss out on so much.


Down bible road we go!


Proverbs 20:12
“Ears that hear and eyes that see – the Lord has made them both.”  Every day that you wake up, if you do not do so already you should be thankful and give thanks for your senses. There is so much to be thankful for, even the seemingly small or normal things. Count your blessings…they are all valuable. God did not have to give you anything, so be thankful and appreciate it all.  


The Universe, or if you believe in God (He), have so much for you to appreciate with all of your senses, if you don’t pay attention to it all, you may miss it.


1 Corinthians 2:9-10
“What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love him- these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.” If you cannot appreciate the grandeur of life presented to you through your senses, will you be prepared for the most beautiful things that God has in store for you? Live in your happiness and appreciate all that you see, hear, feel, touch, and taste if it truly brings you joy.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner

***Health Spotlight*** Kidney Disease


Symptoms: some symptoms include fatigue, cold feeling (possibly anemia), shortness of breath with little effort, swelling hands/feet, and severe itching. 




Risk Factors: adults with diabetes, high blood pressure, or both have a higher risk; other factors are heart disease, obesity, and a history of chronic heart disease.

Prevalence: According to a 2017 fact sheet via the CDC, approximately 30 million people are living with Chronic Kidney Disease; many people living with mild kidney disease are not aware that they have the disease. One in 3 adults with diabetes and one in five adult with high blood pressure may have chronic kidney disease.


Treatment: there is no direct cure but some things to minimize symptoms are lifestyle changes, medication, dialysis, avoid NSAIDs, and moderating alcohol intake.


Prevention: get active, lose weight if you are overweight, altered diet with guidance of a healthcare provider (lower salt intake and eat more fruits and vegetables), do not smoke, and monitor blood sugar regularly.


Your life is so valuable, everything that you are granted and blessed with must be cherished. Take keen delight in your health and your quality of life; do whatever it takes to evolve your life and take good care of yourself and your family.




Delight, Senses, Joy, Happiness, Appreciation, Empowerment, Public Health, Mental Health, Global Health, Holistic Health, God, Bible, Happiness, Law of Attraction, Love, Universe


H - Housing Your Problems

H – Housing Your Problems

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


It is certain that we all face adversity and trying days, but the question that I’d like to ask you is how much are you charging your “mental tenants”?


Take a serious moment to make a list of your mental tenants…
What have these tenants (people/things) done to reserve their space?

Sometimes, it is much easier to allow those problems to stay in your mental housing unit that they are renting…but at what cost?

No matter how big or small, is that cost worth your time and energy?

Sure, the problems hurt and put weight on you but how long will you allow the tenants to stay in your mental space?

The longer that painful thing stays, the longer it will hurt you and hold you back from what you could have.

If you really think about it, what and/or who you house internally makes it’s way out – there will be an exerted physical presence.  This presence can be tears, missed opportunities, needless arguments with people that care about you or something else.

Even when it seems difficult, you have got to come back to this 3-part “trick” …
1.  You are in charge, so don’t allow those tenants to trash your mental home.
2.  Eliminate what no longer needs to be in your space.
3.  Cry it out if you need to, then dry your eyes so that you can see all that you can have, live in, and accomplish.

Do you learn to become the best version of yourself by holding on to and housing problems or obstacles? Certainly not my dear!

Your house ideal “home” can only survive with a strong foundation- so think about what you are putting into your home and make wise decisions.

The longer you hold on to your pain and problems, the longer it will take to reach maximum success.

You deserve to live a life that is not clouded by “unwanted tenants”. 

So the last question you should ask yourself is when are you sending out the eviction notice? You are not forced to nor obligated to keep things or people that hurt you (fight to get out of that bind that you may be in). 

Whether you believe in God or not, in teachings and verses there is truth. Always try to take a note from the words that you read.

1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.””
Think about those in your space and all that they need do; people and things affect your life, your finances, your happiness, and your successes. Imagine or take a step back and look at how much of problem those negativity-causing tenants are causing. Do not allow anything in your space that will hurt you. God favors you; he never promised a life of pain or disappointment; seek Him and know that the battle that you may be fighting internally is not yours to fight. Pray about your issues, take inventory and do not be afraid the put out those eviction notices for your “mental tenants”.

Proverbs 13:20
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” If you are to become like those around you, make the most of your circle and all that is around you. Welcome wisdom, love, kindness and peace into your mental home; trust me, you will be much happier that way. 

The Universe is on your side; surely you can imagine how much good can come from your letting go of pain and things that are not meant to be for your best life. Value the space that you are in and remember that what you put out you also receive in return. Giving negative tenants swift “permission” to exit may be the best thing for your life.

***Health Spotlight*** Hypertension
Symptoms: No signs nor symptoms; many people do know that they have the disease.


Prevalence: Approximately 75 million people in the U.S. are living with hypertension; only about 50% of them have it under control.  CDC 


Treatment (controlling the disease): Medication plus healthy diet- low in salt, fat and cholesterol; high consumption of fruits and vegetables. Be active. Do not smoke. Not controlling this disease can lead to problems in the heart, brain, and kidneys.


Prevention: Make healthy choices.


Housing a disease and not working towards a healthier life is not what you should do. Given opportunities, health options, treatment options, etc. you should take them and make the most of your choices and life. Take good care of yourself; it is the only way to lead a happy, healthy life. Don’t house your problems, let someone help you and don’t be afraid to ask for help.


Be blessed and be at peace. 


#KayLasPositivityCorner


Change, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Global Health, Holistic health, Law of Attraction, Mental Health, Physical Health, Public Health, Self-Love, Wisdom


G - Giving Just Enough

G – Giving Just Enough

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


I give too much…
I give too little…
I give just enough…
Are you giving enough according to what you believe, practice, and value?


How many times have you told yourself that you were going to give something your all?
How often do you stick to giving that “thing” you all?


How often have you only giving something a bit of your effort because you weren’t really concerned about it?
When you did that, did you find even more disappointment or go back and wish that you had given it more effort?


Have you given too much of yourself to someone or something? When you do this, you can leave yourself with emptiness, lost hope, brokenness, and lost will to even love yourself or make yourself happy.


How about this?… Have you ever given just enough effort/time?


Who says that enough isn’t enough? I can’t tell you who first said it, but you can start saying when enough IS enough.


You see, for everything that you delve into whether it is a new job, school, writing a book, building a home, buying a car and everything in between you can say when enough is enough.


What does enough mean?


Amazing and wonderfully, your life is your own- meaning it is unique and no one else can live your life. God built a specific life for you to lead. The Universe works in your favor in accordance to what you do, think, practice, and meditate on; it shapes things for you.


Since your life is uniquely put together shouldn’t you be the one to say when enough is good enough?


Let’s think about this a little deeper…


1. You must be mindful and aware of your actions and behavior. Saying that people should accept you for who you are does not apply if you are choosing to be immature, ignorant, foolish, prideful, or negative. Be aware that enough is enough applies in this one if you are being your best self.


2. When taking on a new endeavor of any sort, you must determine what is enough. If giving your all is enough, stick to that and do not give up. You see, you can’t start off giving what is enough to you and then one day decide that you are tired of doing that (without seeking positive change first). You are in charge…so what’ll it be?


3. In a relationship, again you determine what is enough. Truly take self-inventory before you decide what is enough, though. Are you being a good listener, compassionate helper, cheerful giver, etc.? If you are, then you are doing enough…don’t let anyone make you feel or think that you are not doing enough or that you are not good enough at your core. Don’t be afraid to Break The Silence and claim your excellence; your live is yours and you do not have to prove yourself to anyone.


4. Give enough to everyone that you encounter. You were granted tools and also have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit. For every person that you run into, you have something to give. Give from your heart whether it is in words, a story, a smile, or your business card…do what you can to give enough. This can be connected to giving back to your community or an organization like Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence; give what you can, volunteer, run for a cause, support a mission, help your friend/neighbor…simply give enough according to your heart. Everything happens for a reason, so make the most of the meeting, mission, or conversation. 


5. Giving enough to your family is equally defined by you. Do not burn yourself out; if you need to do something for yourself and have the ability to do so, practice self-care regularly. This can mean a walk, pampering, reading, meditating, exercising or anything else that makes you feel at peace. Schedule your love and care for your family and yourself; you need it and deserve it. 


The moral of the story is that for everything and everyone in your life you are in full power of determining what is enough. You must take the time to understand what that looks like and execute whatever it takes to achieve that. You do not have to push yourself so far that you lose sight of yourself or get to a point where you are feeling empty or broken- you deserve so much better than that.


Matthew 6:21
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Think about it, if you are giving enough and happy with what you are putting in, the action is directly connected your heart and can literally give you a sense of fulfillment. Even if you aren’t in the place of where you aim to be, you can embody that sense by planning out all that you aim to do; work to truly feel how you would if you were already at that level of success or happiness.


Proverbs 10:4
“Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” Think about what you consider to be enough, are you truly putting in the effort that you need to? Is your enough, your work, your push, your mission going to bring you success at the level or space that you are actively living in? God gave and is still giving and revealing to you gifts, angels, words of wisdom, lessons, values, and places to be amazing…are you really giving enough?


The Universe is a place and part of you that is defined by you, your actions, and everything that lives inside of you.


So….I’ll ask you again are you giving enough?


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLas Positivity Corner


***Health Spotlight*** Gonorrhea 
Prevalence: this STD can infect anyone that is sexually (vaginal, anal, or oral) active- ejaculation does not have to occur to get the infection. Pregnant women can possibly pass the infection their babies during delivery. According to the CDC there are an estimated 820,000 people infected with gonoccoal infections every year in the U.S.


Symptoms: (in men) burning sensation when urinating, white, yellow or green discharge from penis, painful or swollen testicles ; (in women) painful or burning sensation when urinating, increased vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding between periods. Rectal infections:  can be asymptomatic or cause symptoms in men and women such as discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, painful bowel movements. If you do not get treated pelvic inflammatory disease is possible (in women) and sterility in men, pain in testicles are possible; also, increased risk in getting HIV and life-threatening issues due to gonorrhea spreading to the blood or joints are possible.


Treatment: treatment can be difficult as there are some drug-resistant strains, but it can be cured with the right treatment. There is a form of dual therapy using two drugs to treat the infection; permanent damage cannot be reversed. If symptoms continue after finishing medication, you need to return to your physician/clinic.


Prevention: use condoms, know your sexual partner and their sexual and medical history, or don’t engage in any sexual encounters.


Giving Enough…
If you ever feel forced to have unprotected sex with someone, you may need to re-evaluate your situation and seek help from the authorities, if needed.  Giving enough in intimacy is definitely defined by both parties; do not push yourself into a realm that you are uncomfortable with. Protect yourself at all cost. Know that you do not have to go to a major physician (and pay a high out-of-pocket price) to get help, community health clinics are in many places. Talk to your friends and family about their health. Communities both near and far are impacted by the good and bad in health choices and delivery of care, so do what you can to bring tough conversations into the light. Seek the help that you need as soon as you need it. Talk to someone; talk to me, I will listen without judgment and help you in any way that I can. 


Let’s lead healthy, happy, prosperous, lives from the inside-out! We deserve it!





Barriers, Community, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Evolving, Friends, Global Health, Happiness, Goals, Meditation, Law of Attraction, Negativity, Opportunity, Passion, Survivor,  Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence, Vision, Warrior, Worthy, Public Health
F- Fight The Good Fight

F- Fight The Good Fight

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


When the storms come and the rain falls it pours; you can get blinded by it all and feel like giving up (trust me, I know). 


On your journey of evolution or when seeking to become the best version of yourself, you need to know that the battle and the storms are worth it.


How can you think otherwise? 
How could you allow the bad to take over and then let everything shift into a negative space?
Why would want to? Because it is easier….? Because it will please someone else…?
Stop…now. Shake it all up.


Mental and physical health mean so much to not only you, but everyone around you.
When you think about battles that affect you, how do you handle them? 


You need to put your everything into all that you do no matter how hard it may seem or who may say something negative. Do you know why? Simply because you have to. You must dig deep, fight hard, and believe in something.


FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT!
If you are pushing for something, growing into yourself, revolutionizing your life, doing something new, etc. fight for it!


I promise you no matter what it is that you are fighting for, everything that you feel leading up to that moment of achievement matters.


The empty spaces, tear-filled eyes, lost voice, long nights, stressful papers, terrifying exams, closed doors, and everything in between is worth it.


Keep fighting!
Keep pushing!


Think about people all around the world and how so many people have to fight to have food, clean water, medicine, warmth, a doctor’s visit, etc. Now, think about yourself…what are you facing? Not to say that one problem is greater than another, but you are already blessed beyond measure and have so much to offer others even when the storms roll in.


If you don’t have that fight (will) inside of you, you will not get where you are trying to go.


If something has been placed on your heart, (some will to do good things), you owe it to yourself and the world to fight for it like you have never fought for anything before.


How you fight and what you are willing to put in says a lot about your character…shouldn’t you be showing yourself that you are worth fighting that good fight? Of course you should!!

Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” If your friend/neighbor/family member needs help fighting their fight, do whatever you can (within personally-set boundaries) to help them…this is what you are supposed to do. If you have the space or the platform to do good, even if it is as small as a call, post, speaking engagement, listing on an information board, do it! God sees that spark lingering inside of you and I promise you that if you do something with it, you will do so much good for the world. Do not give up now.


If it is your health that is ailing you or failing you, fight until you cannot fight anymore; ask for help if you need to/want to. Do not let anything stop you. 


If it is your business/school that is making you fearful, concerned, scared of change or anything else, remember that change is good; even if you can’t see that now, let me tell you that you will one day understand. No matter what don’t give up and don’t give in.


Believe me, God and/or the Universe are making a special place for you to do all that you are working toward activating.


Galatians 6:9
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” No one knows your reason nor your season except you and God, so keep it in your bubble if that is where you want to keep it-that is fine; sometimes it is best to keep things to yourself. Please, promise yourself that you are only keeping it to yourself for safe keeping, not to hide it and dim your light/opportunity to do something good.


Whether there is a shift in love, education, business, finances, growth, opportunities or anything

else please fight the good fight. Work with what you have an make a difference…because you can! I believe in you.


Fight the good fight, and don’t just do it for you, do it for me, your neighbor, your family, your community, and the world…we all need you.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight*** Acute Flaccid Myelitis (CDC Research)
Symptoms: respiratory illness, fever, weakness and/or pain in legs or arms, changes in movement of eyes, drooping in face, difficulty swallowing or slurred speech. Respiratory failure is one of the most serious symptoms.
Prevalence: still considered a rare and serious illness but there has been a significant rise since 2014; mostly young children are affected, but adults can contract the disease. Less than 1-2 in a million children in the US will get AFM annually. There has been over 500 confirmed cases since 2014 (CDC).
Possible causes: viruses such as enteroviruses (poliovirus, enterovirusA71, and West Nile virus). Of course there is not a certainty about what causes the condition, but it is up to you as parents/family members to vaccinate your kids. Do not jump into the hype of non-vaccination, as you can very much be putting your child’s life in danger. Do real research, it matters. We didn’t come this far by ignoring sound research and healthy developments in medicine.
Prevention: Vaccination, protect against mosquito bites, get rid of stagnant water, wash your hands appropriately and often, avoid close contact with those that are ill.
Treatment: not one route of treatment; physicians may recommended physical therapy along with other treament options.


You must make the right choices and fight for the good fight when it comes to your health. You are responsible for most outcomes. You must do your reading/research via reputable sources, ask questions, and help others get access to the care that they need. We are not individuals walking around without deep knowledge/information at our fingertips. Pay attention and make the right (and wise) decisions for you, your family, everyone you and your kids come in contact with, and the world; we must all depend on and lean on one another.


Achievement, Ambition, Barriers, Blessings, Challenges, Character, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Evolution, Fighting, Global Health, Mental Health, Public Health, Strength, Worthy, Vision
E- Executing Personal Elegance

E- Executing Personal Elegance

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


Divinely you were created and brought to this Earth. Divinely things occur and arrive in your life and that of everyone around you. Clearly this means that not only do you have a purpose but there is elegance and grace built into you.


Often the world and the media present false images that many follow and get caught into, but what does that mean for you. You are all that is presented to you, so don’t allow yourself to become something that you aren’t.


You may be surprised by how much things affect you by simply appearing in an image. Just as quickly as you read this blog, your thoughts are immediately deepening and shifting. Since you know that to be true, think about how other things pop up or present themselves online or in your personal life and may cause negative shifts in your thoughts.


You are of elegance, so you have to fight regularly to stay in that light and mentality.


If there is an element of negativity, you need to think twice about letting it stay in your presence. 


If something or someone is making you feel like you are unworthy of success, check yourself and look into that mirror again!


If you run into a space in your life where you feel like you aren’t pretty enough or talented enough, check yourself and remember your elegance and uniqueness.


Personal elegance is not determined nor maintained by the standards of others. 


Personal elegance is what you make it to be.


Uphold yourself to the highest of standards even when no one looking, so that when you present yourself you radiate light and pure happiness.


Personal elegance can be linked to all that you are. It means appearance, character, successes, happiness, love, peace, accomplishments and so much more.


For all of those images of false “perfection”, know that not all that people present is the truth of who they are from the inside out.


A pretty face, fancy clothes, and luxury living do not equate a happy heart or good character. As you observe the world around you check the meaning and think deeper. 


When you wake up, who are you?
When you talk to your friends who are you? What do you display?
When you embrace the presence of your loved ones, who are you?
When you are at work, who are you?
If all of these people are different, you may need to do some re-evaluation. You may not be executing your own personal elegance at the highest level.


Your truth and your elegance should be so apparent that they are presented and connected to your character/all that you are. 


Of course there will be negative people speaking against who you are…but let it be. If you are executing your personal elegance you are already being the best and no one can shake that.


Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
No one can tell you or show you who you are. You are in charge of becoming who you were created to be. There are so many wonderful things about you and even more great things that you can do to bless others. Never think that you are less than amazing, because it is simply not true.


Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.”
Think of all of the beautiful things about the world that we live in even when there is darkness presenting itself. 


Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” There are things far more important than outer appearance or false images of happiness, so be all that you present from the inside-out. Change your thoughts, your family and all that you will bless in your future depending on it.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner






Achievement, Ambition, Blessings, Character, Determination, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Evolving, Faith, God, Growth, Global Health, Happiness, Journey, Law of Attraction, public health, Success, 
D-Diving in Head First

D-Diving in Head First

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


If you have ever jumped in a pool, you definitely know how necessary it is to be prepared to hold your breath and go for it in a flash. 


Thinking about how this may work in life is quite interesting.


We all have different hopes and dreams, but where would we be if we did not hold back the fears/doubts and would just dive in?


It can be difficult for many to do this because they are afraid of the outcome. Still others may not be able to go for their dreams in a flash because the timing simply isn’t right.


What if you didn’t think about all of the possible outcomes and you did whatever you could to focus on the best one?
What if you were able to ignore any thoughts of failure?


Let’s prep first…
With anything that you want in life or that you dream of you must start with a vision/dream.


Get creative and put that vision on paper, I know that I love to see my vision and dreams in front of me so vision boards and affirmations are a significant part of my life.


When you can see it, you can further believe that it will be and already is true.


After you can see it on paper, then you need to plan things out. Ask yourself and in a timely fashion get answers to how you can make things happen. 


Make a logical plan internally, only then can you fully execute your mission.


Step by step and piece by piece you are preparing for the greatest dive of your life. How does it feel? You ought to feel amazing and empowered.


For every moment that you choose to sit back hoping that something will happen magically, there is someone else with the same original thought that is pushing and pushing forward and getting where you may be still simply dreaming of.

Now that you know how to prep for your dive, let’s think about the why…


Belief in yourself is an internal action that can be released into the external world through your actions and practiced faith. If you exercise that belief and create actions that are attainable, then everything changes for the better.


Why should you prepare for a dive into your highest goals/dreams? Simply because you deserve it and it is the only way that anything will come into fruition.


Even if that dive seems deep and the current is against you, you have got to keep fighting and maintain your breath. Work in your own favor.


Job 12:10 “The life of every living thing is in His hand, as well as the breath of all mankind”. If we can hold firm to the fact that God literally has everything in His hands, can’t we rest assured that our future and our present are covered and blessed according to His will? The Universe is working in your favor, so be mindful of what you do and/or don’t put into your life (in thought or physical action).


Psalms 56:3
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you”. Even if one step on your journey may seem too big or very scary, trust that everything will turn out just fine. Trust in God, trust in yourself and believe (from the beginning and during the tough days) that all will be amazing. Creating shifts in the Universe means that you release the negativity and create better thoughts. 


Every day there is a new lesson to be learned, so why not use those lessons to become fully prepared for your life’s big dive? 


Push your own limits and challenge yourself to be the best at everything you do, you deserve that and so much more.


I believe in you, do you?
Are you ready to take that dive? If not, get ready…time waits for no one.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
Diphtheria (an infection)
Symptoms: Weakness, sore throat, fever, swollen neck glands, gray coating in throat/nose, breathing difficulties; potential for damage to heart, kidneys, and nerves also exist. (CDC)
Prevention: Vaccination is recommended; it was once a major cause of illness and death in children, so be mindful of what people can face without vaccination and attempting to prevent disease/infection.
Treatment: Physicians can swab the throat to test for the presence of bacteria that causes Diphtheria. An antitoxin/antibiotics are used to stop the poison and to kill/get rid of the bacteria, respectively. Treatment does not mean that all are saved, though.
Prevalence: Even with treatment 1 in 10 die from Diphtheria. In some countries there are upwards of 700 people cases in a year; even though there are very few reports in the US, it is very necessary to protect yourself as best as possible. WHO
Public Health Connection: Because Diphtheria is spread through droplets from coughing or sneezing, it can easy be transmitted to others. A person can also get Diphtheria from touching a object (like a toy) that has the bacteria on it. Be mindful of everything that you/your children come in contact with. Seek a physician if you are ill; do not wait, try to find out about what you are experiencing by using the internet, or try to self-medicate. There are many inexpensive clinics that you may have access to. Work hard to protect yourselves and your family. Practice proper hygiene and proper sneezing/coughing techniques- do so in your elbow, not your hands. Dive into being mindful about your health and that of your family; you can’t live your best life if you are not taking care of your physical health.





Barriers, Challenges, Changes, Courage, Determination, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Evolving, Fear, Global Health, Law of Attraction, Public Health, Vaccination, Worthy, 
C-Chasing Away Personal Monsters

C-Chasing Away Personal Monsters

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen

Your monsters come in every shape and form. Monsters big or small can wreak havoc, throw stones at you, break your pride, and dim your light…..if you let them.


When you grow into your strengths, live in your purpose, and push to become that which you are called to be even the biggest of monsters can be chased away.


For some, their monsters are people
…these people have caused pain, brokenness, confusion, frustration, and loss of self. These people are essentially spirit-breakers; when they find the space and place to bring on the pain and heartbreak they lay it on hard. 


The challenge for you is to see beyond your tears and not allow those pain-evoking people to crush you from the inside-out. Do not allow these people into your circle and certainly do not allow anyone to stay in your life should they exhibit ugliness, evil, or any type of negativity. Stand up, shine your light, and chase away those who do not belong with you on your journey.

For others, their monsters may be things/places
…these things are what you truly have control over at every moment. Whether your monster in this sense is a habit that is hard to break, a place that you need to grow apart from, or a space that is no longer serving you as it should- you have got to pay attention and do whatever it takes to chase away this monster.


Even still another type of monster can be your emotions. You are most definitely entitled to your emotions and no one can take them away from you or force you to feel differently. The most important thing with this type of monster is to not allow it to take over your life. Emotions change according to environment and many other things around you. No matter how much this monster tries to chase and/or tackle you, you have got to keep pushing forward.


2 Peter 1:5-9
“For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.” No matter what you face, there is a way to cover it in love and prosperity. Chasing away your monsters does something that is so important and that is: give you more space to grow, be happy, and be at peace.


Clutter of your monsters must be cleaned up so that you can welcome what is going to bless your lives. The Universe brings forth more of what you put into it; if you are welcoming and/or allowing the negative to stay you are hurting yourself, all around you, and your chance for opportunities.


Proverbs 12:16
“Fools shows their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.” If your monsters hurt you, you have to do what works best for you and get rid of them. This doesn’t mean that you fight fire with fire; you will receive a blessing unlike any other if you are kind (with your strength and voice intact). 


As you know, and I have said several times before, nothing is life is easy and it shouldn’t be. Think about how much stronger you would be if you chased away your monsters. Think about the power and the fire inside of you that will only grow when that place, space, or thing no longer belongs in your are gone. 


Don’t you deserve a beautiful smile on your face and to live in happiness and peace?


Don’t you deserve success in life?


Don’t you deserve all that you imagine and beyond?

…Of course you do!


Take the time to learn about your monsters and do what it takes to chase them completely out of the scene. You deserve that!


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivity Corner


***Health Spotlight*** Chikungunya- a mosquito transmitted virus
Symptoms: fever, headache, rash, swelling, and joint pain
Treatment: unfortunately, there is no vaccine to prevent or treat the infection; most feel better after a week, so drink fluids take Tylenol and get some rest.
Prevention: use mosquito netting, wear long sleeves, and use repellent
Prevalence: a global impact; last year there were about 150 reported cases of chikungunya in the U.S. (CDC), but thousands more affected across the world
– Chasing away monsters with this disease means so much more than taking care of yourself; it means plugging into your family, community, and the world. There is so much that we can do in our own communities; it takes a village and our impact can be great if only we use what we have to make a change. Think about how blessed you are and never forget how underserved so many others are; do your part, let’s change the world for the better by chasing away the monsters that so many people face.






Growth, Global Health, Light, Manifest, mental health, Overcome, Worthy, Self-Worth, Self-Love, public health, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Law of Attraction
Overcoming Fear

Overcoming Fear

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


Your voice is your power. Your story is your wisdom. Your truth is your freedom.
No matter what anyone tells you, those three statements will forever ring true.


The world and time will reveal to you the character and morals of everyone that you encounter or see displayed in the media and in your life.


Your fear of the world and what others will say are essentially figments of your imagination. Your job in life is to follow your passion, not to hide from the world.


Think about a time when you learned something new. Was it easy? Were you scared of what people would say? Were you there standing strong to learn that new thing? Did you hide from the world, never to learn that thing?


Let’s roll the dice of life….ready, set, shake…
Roll 1: You only learn about something from a distance
Roll 2: You learn behind closed doors
Roll 3: You learn only around family
Roll 4: You take a moment to learn about that new thing and how you can become good at it
Roll 5: You learn to the best of your ability but fear the world
Roll 6: You learn, grow, strengthen your mind and abilities, and show the world what you’re made of.


The dice reference can be thought about like this: You can shake it up and take a chance and land on any of those numbers and they all mean different things. All that matters is that you take the chance!


So what if you fall?! So what if you can only take one step at a time?! You are still doing better on your roll 6 by doing everything that you can without fear!


If you speak up and only get your voice and/or story heard by 5 people, that’s more than the mirror and more than your tears. Those people can tell 5 more people and that effect could keep rolling along. Look at how much you can do by just letting go of fear and being open to the world around you.


Deuteronomy 31:8 “He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” God gave you so much more than a mind of fear. You have everything that you need inside of you. Having a fear of the world will only cause fear to live inside of you. Fear is not real. Fight back! Use what you have and all that you are to change your life and bless many others.


Psalms 27:1 “The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? Those against us will use fear, mockery, and belittlement tactics to break us down. Imagine what we could do if we grew strong enough to overcome that. If someone has caused you to feel this way, it is your mind and your accomplishments that can and will change all of that if you let it happen. God can give you perfect peace. The Universe will work in your favor…what are you putting into your prayers and your visualizations? You can eliminate fear, one step and one lesson at a time.


Grow into who you were called to be.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
Dengue (endemic, but pandemic-prone) : A viral infection/disease caused that is mosquito-borne (via Aedes aegypti). There are millions of infections annually in many areas including suburbs, poor areas, and tropical countries; the disease is endemic-in over 100 countries. It is a leading killer of children and adults in Asian and Latin American countries. Within 2-7 days the infected person develops a fever (WHO). Common symptoms include: high fever, severe headache, rash, joint pain, severe eye pain, mild bleeding, and muscle pain. Warning signs include abdominal pain, black stool, cold/clammy skin, and difficulty breathing. Prevention: eliminate areas that hold water around your home, use repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, secure windows and screens (no holes), and use a bed net when needed. There is no specific treatment, but pain medication (with acetaminophen- no aspirin or ibuprofen), hydrating, resting and consultation of a physician are all mandatory (CDC). Take care of yourself and your family is the key to a long, happy, and healthy life.





Overcoming, Fear, Light, God, Universe, Empowerment, Global Health, Public Health, Challenges, Epidemiology, Growth, Strength
Overcoming & Eliminating Self-Pity

Overcoming & Eliminating Self-Pity

Posted on by KayLa's Positivity Corner by KayLa N. Allen, MPH

©KayLaN.Allen


Most of us have been at the root of a problem or situation, but how often do we really take the time to acknowledge faults or words that should not have been spoken?


Even if you feel that you have not been a part of a problem, you have likely witnessed a friend or loved one experience this.


Yes, you surely can take the time to go through a “woe is me” phase. Along with that you can also sit an have a pity party for weeks on end. The real question is will your “woe is me” time or your pity party bring you to an absolute answer that will create a shift in your world? The answer is probably no.


You can’t move forward and go beyond internalizing a problem if you cannot accept your faults and grow from them. 


No matter what you face in life, if you feel that you had a place in the breakdown of events then you need to do some reflection. Maybe the fault is on you…maybe not…you need to understand this clearly.


Pitying yourself will only cause a domino effect and a roller coaster of emotions. 


Take it step by step. Write it down. Look at what happened and how you may have added to it. Understand your position in the problems that you may face.


To heal and grow, you must take must personal inventory. Do you really know who you are? Do you know how you behave in an argument? Are you an effective communicator? Do you find it easier to avoid and runaway than to face an issue?


You must be able to look inside of yourself and have a real answer to all of these questions. Once you know the answers to these questions only then can you truly see who you are and grow from your mistakes or problems faced.


Think about it this way, could you ever learn how to do something like tie your shoes if at first you were not taught or did not make a mistake? No.


There are elements in life that you must face and self-pity is not one of those things.


If things are not as you may want them to be, stop and go a different direction or try a different option. 


To have a happy and healthy life you must dig inside of yourself and spread your wisdom to others; in this you must also be open enough to listen to and understand life lessons taught by others.


2 Timothy 1:7 ” For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” You must be able to understand what is faced and go through a period of self-evolution. God gave your a brain and He teaches you lessons along your journey through life; it is up to you to be wise enough to take those lessons and use them for your good. You are fully-equipped to be a warrior and a blessing to the world around you, so make the best of every moment and every situation. The Universe is a part of your core being; you can have an be all things that you aspire to have and work diligently to be. God and the Universe are on your side, so choose your thoughts and behavior wisely. Grow up and choose self-esteem over self-pity.


Romans 12:3 “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” You are not perfect and if you are facing a problem with someone else, they aren’t perfect either. You need to face what is beyond the mirror and become all that you are called to be. 


If you can accept your flaws, you can grow from what may be holding you back. You can become anything/anyone, so suit up, stop weeping, let go of that horrible anger, and put on your armor.


You have all that you need inside of you…don’t be stubborn.


Be blessed and be at peace.


#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
Psittacosis: A disease linked to the bacteria C. psittaci. The bacteria affects birds often, but it can infect people in the form of the disease Psittacosis. The disease is caused by a respiratory tract infection. The types of birds connected to this disease can include household pets like parrots and cockatiels, and can branch out to poultry.  Dust particles from dried secretions can be breathed in; birds can also infect people via bites and beak-to-mouth contact. It is not generally spread person-to-person. The symptoms linked to this disease include: fever, headache, and a dry cough. The illness could possibly lead to pneumonia; rarely it can lead to death. The people at risk: adults, those in contact with pet birds, aviary and pet shop employees, poultry workers, and veterinarians. Diagnosis via blood testing to detect antibodies and/or sputum swabs to detect bacteria (CDC). Treatment is via antibiotics will lead to quick improvements. Be mindful of your surroundings and the needs of your body, and as always seek the help of a trusted physician or healthcare whenever needed (there are many budget-friendly physicians).


Self-Pity, Self-Esteem, Overcoming, Evolution, Challenges, Problems, Mental Health, Global Health, Public Health, Empowerment, God, Universe, Epidemiology