Tag: Strength

O - Ocean Waves Of Your Life

O – Ocean Waves Of Your Life

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

©KayLaN.Allen


Nature is beyond grand and I will tell anyone that “God is my favorite artist”. 
Think about the crashing of waves, and the rise and fall that is constantly occurring in them. If you compare that up and down flow to your life, you can see how the highs and lows may seem like they are always coming and going.


If you treat your life like it is a constant wave of emotions and actions, what are you left with? A life that never seems to change…who wants the same thing over and over again? I surely don’t.


What if you visited beach and really took some time to watch the rise and crash of the waves? What if you thought about all it took to get to that height of the wave and the release within the crash?


There must take some serious wind, power, pull and friction for a wave to form; it isn’t just an automatic rise and fall. Think about this is in your life. As a wave takes much power and a combined effort to rise and fall, reaching goals does as well. Piece by piece, you can build what you thought you could only dream.


Sure the fall or crash part of the wave can feel like it is over, but just like your low points in life, it’s not the end. Think about it, every time that you fell, found sadness, or couldn’t see the light in your darkest day, somehow…some way, you were able to rise again. 


This is the thing, you must climb, fight, dig in, learn, evolve, find your power, focus on how awesome you are and become even greater over time. Become like ocean waves, be amazing and powerful at your highs and lows.


Listen to the lessons in your ups and down. Waves roar and crash, both with power; you can do this too! No matter how difficult a moment may be, eventually you will see how much power you are packing in your highlights and lowlights.


Micah 7:8
“Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” No matter season of your growth that you may be in, do not let any negative voices or thoughts come into your circle. Keep in mind that you are “entertaining” different audiences at all times: those who applaud and support your highs, and those who truly applaud your falls. Remain focused on the good in all things as God is blessing your path (both seen directions and unseen). The Universe can see your falls and is in tune with what you have faced, but will also activate the positivity and growth that you seek if you stay focused.


Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Though in life you are met with highs and lows as waves do, God has major plans. His ways are magnificent, His power is beyond words, His love will fill you, and the spaces He creates for you will be perfectly shaped and in Divine timing.


Ride the waves of your life and appreciate your moments, you won’t regret it.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight*** (CDC and WHO reference)
Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) – A Neglected Tropical Disease caused by a parasitic worm and transmitted by repeated blackfly bites.
Signs/Symptoms: skin disease, nodules under skin, extreme itching, and visual impairment/blindness (CDC)
Prevalence/Common Location(s): Common in tropical climates and sub-Saharan Africa, also found in Venezuela and Brazil and some areas in the Americas and Yemen. According to the WHO, about 25 million people are infected; 300,000 being blind and 800,000 have visual impairment.
Risk Factors: living near streams and rivers where Simulium blackflies are, being in rural agricultural areas in sub-Saharan Africa; long-term missionaries or travelers are more at risk than those who may in previously mentioned areas less than 3 months (CDC)
Treatment: Ivermectin every 6 months for the duration of the life of an adult worm or as long as there is skin/eye infection in the individual. (CDC)
Prevention: insect repellents and long sleeves/pants during the day when blackflies bite and wearing permethrin-treated clothes. (CDC)


Achievement, Empowerment, Determination, Epidemiology, Global Health, God, Holistic Health, Manifest, Mindfulness, Overcoming, Potential, Self-Esteem, Self-Worth, Strength, Public Health, Universe, Wisdom, 


N - No Longer a Victim

N – No Longer a Victim

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

©KayLaN.Allen


Whether you are the person that lost yourself, faced brokenness, lost your voice, were beaten, were molested, faced assault of any kind, face being hurt with intent, or anything in between you were once a victim.


I faced much from being forced to do unspeakable acts to being physically and sexually assaulted. This is my truth that I share to you. There is much more than could be shared, but we will keep the past brief as the future is much more important.


You see, when you were living in pain, you were forced to become a person that you were surely not happy with. Perhaps, like me, you felt torn apart, like you had no value, like your opinions and/or feelings didn’t matter. Maybe you felt like you became another person to make someone else comfortable, unbothered, or calm… None of this is fair and I can assure you that I can relate to you in one way or another. 


At some point, you have to realize that you are no longer a victim. 
– If you have already done this, I applaud you and send you the warmest of hugs on the greatest change that has occurred in your life. I promise that you still have growing to do and thoughts of the past will arise (I know this from experience), but you have put in some serious work and have taught yourself some truly valuable life and love lessons.


– If you have not done this already, your time is now. You can Break Your Silence Against Domestic Violence or whatever you may have faced in your past. You ARE NO LONGER A VICTIM, I speak that (out loud) on your life right now.


I freely speak freedom on your life because I know how it feels to be bound to your pain. You, in this very moment, have to power to gain your freedom and live in it.


Freedom is a release of all that may have hurt you or held you back in some form. 


You have to make the choice and consistent decision to say:
I am no longer a victim. 
I am no longer going to allow my past to hurt me. 
The lessons that my past ( the Universe and/or God) taught me are for my good.
My past does not control my future.
What I faced will not stop me.
I may have dealt with that, but I can still have anything that I want in my life.


For me when I faced homelessness, brokenness, deep pain, hopelessness, and a loss of self, I could not see anything but that. I had to learn and re-learn all that I could have in my life. God promised me (and you) a life of prosperity. I had to decide again and again to chose me.


You MUST reclaim your power. You must make the decision to stop being a victim and move into the realms of being a survivor; this is only step one. For every moment that you allow your past to reign over you or any aspect of your life, you lose another significant moment of happiness, peace, and living in your greatest purpose.


I’m not making light of anything that you have faced, as I know pain and have spoken to/mentored many people in their quest to be free and live a positively evolved life. What I am saying is that you have to choose yourself over and over again; this is the only way that you can truly be free. 


I lived as a victim more years than one. I lived as a victim and the pain weighed more than a ton. I lived as victim through perceived obligation and force. Now I have changed my life for the better, never to return to that broken obstacle course. #btsadv #KayLasPositivityCorner


No more making excuses about how you can’t do things because you were hurt. It is time for you to take control.


If I can go through rounds of pain for years, find myself, then fall again, find myself then make excuses for my abuserS, then find myself again and crawl out of the dust to get to where I am – now a Master of Public Health that graduated with a well-deserved 4.0 making the President’s List twice, an empowerment via holistic health blogger, and the managing director at Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence, you can do absolutely anything that you put your mind to. You are no longer a victim, so stop behaving as such. Proclaim that you are free and start fighting for want you want and deserve in you life. Need an accountability partner? I will help you and you can help me.


This message is so strong and so important to me that we have to hit the bible three times!


Psalms 9:9
“The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” God has been there for you even if you didn’t know it or feel His presence. When you were going through your rough patches, He was implanting love and strength in you. It is your time to act on all that you have learn; welcome God into this new part of your journey and remember that you are no longer a victim and you must start acting/living like it.


The Universe activates what you think about and act on. If you are telling yourself that you are living in low spaces or thoughts as you are because of what you experienced, guess what thoughts and feelings will surround you? Brokenness and inability to change you life for the better. Be encouraged starting right now and change everything because you deserve it. Speak it out loud, it is being heard!


Psalms 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” You are no longer a victim, God is binding your wounds, putting you through perfect surgery. What are you doing with your healing? How are you living? How do you feel? If you are not shaking everything up and working on bettering your life and living in your highest purpose, you are doing yourself a great disservice! You better start making changes because no matter what you faced, no one can change your future except you. 


2 Timothy 1:7
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Tell your giants (your past pain and anything that binds you) that it is time go! Knock your walls down! If you haven’t made changes, turned things around for your good, or loosed whatever has hurt you, you may be living in fear but that is not what God has promised you. He gave you so much more…so what are you doing with it? If you haven’t done anything with that knowledge, I dare you to start today! “You are the seed by faith received, the blessing of Abraham – it’s your inheritance, get your inheritance!” -Donald Lawrence


I said it before and I say it again SURVIVORS, YOU ARE NO LONGER VICTIMS SO ACT LIKE IT! I believe in you and I know that you are going to have so many great things come your way if you have faith, believe in yourself, and act on what you want.


You are living, so start doing so! Dream big… I do! Why dream small when you can have it all?


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
National Public Health Week #NPHW #NPHW2019 #IDWP


Healthy Communities: We all deserve access to high-quality, compassionate care, but this is not always the case for many communities. Do what you can to create a shift in this in your own neighborhood via volunteer efforts or anything that calls to your heart. It will make a true difference.


Violence Prevention: What you and your children watch, hear, listen to on the radio, read about etc. affects everything that you do. Speak peace, bridge gaps faced, do whatever you can to heal people around you, you may just save a life. We can all do our part here.


Rural Health: You can act positively here and work to bridge gaps in healthcare. Build a program, share your ideas with organizations, volunteer, contribute, do whatever it takes to bring health to all people. People living in urban areas should have the same access as others; if we collaborate and keep our hearts intact we can create a positive and long-lasting impact in healthcare.


Technology and Public Health: The world is changing and advancing rapidly, bringing care to people can mean the use of technology. I am building a program to bridge a gap in dv, what are you doing to make a shift using what you know and are an expert in?


Global Health: We walk through life often complaining about what we face big or small. How often do you think about the world? Global health is so important to me because I frequently think about people what others are facing: no access to care, drought, disease, homelessness, etc. This world has over 7 billion people living in it. If you can help one person, one community, one state in health care, think about how much you have done and how many others will be positively impacted. 


You have the power to create positive changes all around you. Start digging to find out how. Live in your positive purpose today and forever. The world needs you. Use your lessons from the days of being a victim to empower and change the world today.






Victim, Survivor, Empowerment, Mental Health, Public Health, Epidemiology, Evolving, Overcome, Determination, Community, Growth, Happiness, Manifest, Mindfulness, Domestic Violence, Strength, Success, Support, Universe, God, Bible

M- Meditate to Mediate

M- Meditate to Mediate

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

©KayLaN.Allen


When you are panning through different areas of concern in your life or trying to understand how to get from one level to the next, one of the most important things to do is to see it all happening.


Start with a dream or vision and make it real by allowing it to come into reality within your mind. 


You start a mental race inside of yourself when you first dream up anything that you want in life.


Just like anything else you have to put a strong focus on the effort and begin to work on it within your mind to make it all happen.


Teach yourself to meditate on whatever area that you are trying to grow into. I meditate with guided meditation and/or music to get in tune with myself, align my chakras, and grow into new spaces. You don’t have to do formal cross your legs and say “Ohm” meditating to get in tune; the most important aspect is to focus on one area of concern.


Not to sound cocky or anything, but some of the greatest answers can come from inside of you. You shouldn’t invite everyone to your mental table, because you may be served a dish that you cannot digest or that may bring you more harm than good.


When you invite people into your space it can be quite difficult to hear the truth and what you should do, as words of advice can biased, filled with judgment, or not helpful in your life.


What you zone into within yourself will contribute to whatever you are experiencing. To use myself as an example, I have had to sit with my thoughts about school and my future career; I know that only me and God can push the effort, so I talk to God in length at absolute minimum twice a day. 


In prayer or meditation you go in seeking truth and answers; if you are truly listening beyond the realms of your heart and you become fervent in your practice you will receive direct and clear answers. Teach yourself to go from meditation or prayer warrior to conqueror and achiever.


One of my favorite things to do is step into nature and simply feel the air; this is another space for getting in tune with myself and spending alone time with God.


When you meditate to mediate you can reach answers and spaces that you could not have even imagined prior to entering that time.


Let’s talk a look at a couple of bible verses to truly reel this in.


Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” If we live knowing that God is wanting us to train our mind, strengthen our focus and maintain clarity in what He wants us to do, why shouldn’t we be fixing our eyes on Him especially in prayer and meditation. Those times of silence/focus are a way of calling God directly as asking Him to speak to our hearts. In our silence we can hear clearly as we are free of distractions, and get closer to higher powers and/or more in tune with the Universal callings.


Psalms 49:3
“My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the meditation of my heart will give you understanding.” This is one of my favorite verses! If you are teaching yourself through reading, prayer, and wise counsel how to walk in your purpose giving God the glory all the way through, guess what will loosen-YOUR BLESSINGS! Meditation is a form of prayer, so take the time to make it a priority and do it regularly. 


No matter what you are facing it is so important to see good things happening, encourage yourself through and through, and be thankful in the good and bad times. Remember that giants do fall! The enemy and/or the devil is lingering and wants to take over, so speak against that and fight for what you want. Wipe away your tears, pray, meditate and believe that God/the Universe is working in your favor. Meditate to mediate and watch how things start become as clear as ever.


Be blessed and be at peace.
#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
Mental Health
Millions of people face and/or live with mental health concerns that affect their everyday lives. Whether it is you, a friend, loved one, or someone that you consider an acquaintance, it is important to understand exactly what they are facing and how it may be intertwined with their lives. Listen to concerns; mental health concerns are not always exposed in a physical sense, so be kind, respectful and understanding if someone you know is living with any type of mental condition. Be a good listener, do not laugh at someone because of how tough of a time that they may be having, and do whatever you can to help them. Help loved one find resources that can help them live their best lives and remember that mental health issues are a major concern that can be addressed at many levels. Let us all be there for each other, become well-educated on mental concerns, and support one another in whatever we may be facing. Meditate, seek help, and pray about what you may be facing and know that there are many people that care about you and will whatever they can to help you. I’m praying for you and I can give you guidance on where to turn if you need any time of health assistance.




Achievement, Challenges, Empowerment, Evolution, Global Health, Goals, Guidance, Healing, Holistic Health, Mindfulness, Positivity, Public Health, Strength, Vision, Wisdom, Epidemiology, Mental Health, Prayer, Meditation


J- Jewels in Your Life

J- Jewels in Your Life

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

©KayLaN.Allen


For every bad thing that you encounter or endured there is something beautiful to be seen or understood.


Lessons learned in life can be so difficult and I could never make light of anything that anyone faces, but I will say that there is a reason for your circumstances.


Whether we are talking about an abusive relationship that you have overcome, an amazing job that you have had your eye on, a love that you lost, or anything in between there is a lesson to be learned from each situation/circumstance.


I know that you have learned and know very well that all that glitters isn’t gold, but do you also know that there are jewels to be discovered and appreciated in your darkest of days and clearest of nights?


Everything that you go through has a meaning, you have to understand that the lesson no matter how difficult it may be to receive is a blessing for you.


I want you to think about these lessons as the jewels in your life. If this means that you have to put on your hypothetical rose colored glasses (only for a moment) to see the positivity in your situation, do it. 


Challenge yourself to take a journey through your mind, heart, body, and soul- give your situations, storms, circumstances a “full body scan” so to speak, and think about the why and work without giving up to understand the lesson.


When you wear your favorite accessory or piece of jewelry, you do so because it makes you feel a sense of happiness right? Shouldn’t your life’s lessons give you a sense of happiness after they have been learned?


Think about all of the things that make your life grand, beautiful, and worth living even when your heart is feeling heavy – this is easier said than done, but is very much worth it.


Take note and think about all of the jewels in your life: lessons, peace, happiness, family, kids, friends, education, successes, business, gifts and talents.


To the Bible & Universe We Go!


Proverbs 20:15
“There is gold and abundance of costly stones, but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.” You don’t have to own jewels, gems, or stones to understand how gorgeous and precious they are. Your mind, body, and soul are precious jewels. Evolution of your mind is more precious than jewels; your knowledge is your life’s glimmering light.


The Universe gifts you with lessons, experiences, wisdom, knowledge, opportunities, and values to be appreciated. Each of which are grand, beautiful, and a wonderful part of your life. Take the time to understand this and be joyful in it.


Isaiah 62:3
“You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of God.” You are absolutely amazing and truly a jewel; your value and worth are high on the list my dear. Take a hint and work to bless your own life and all of those around you by wearing your jewels that life and God have given you.


***Health Spotlight***
I love the idea of traveling so why not address global issues. 🙂


Japanese Encephalitis
Symptoms: fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, possibility of movement disorders, and mental status changes.
Prevalence: less than one percent infected with the virus develop clinical illness (CDC)  Twenty to thirty percent of those who develop encephalitis die; 30-50% of survivors have continued cognitive, neurologic and psychiatric symptoms.
Prevention: a vaccine is recommended for those traveling to an endemic area and will be there for over a month or a shorter period if someone will be outside of an urban area.
Treatment: symptomatic- includes rest, fluids, pain reliever and fever reducing medication.

Blessings, Challenges, Character, Courage, Determination, Drive, Empowerment, Faith, Fighting, God, Growth, Law of Attraction, Public Health, Mental Health, Epidemiology, Strength, Survivor


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
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 "Hidden" Emotions

Overcoming “Hidden” Emotions

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

©KayLaN.Allen


There are times when we find ourselves silenced, be it because of someone or something. It can be a challenge finding your voice, your place, and your position, however it must be done.


Silence is not always “golden”, in fact it can be the deepest shade of black imaginable. It can take you to an unhealthy place, if it takes over your mind. 


Silence can literally shut down your vision.
It can shut down your mind.
It can shut down your power.


The most important thing to do is to realize that everything that you have to say has a meaning.


Do not let anyone tell you that what you have to say does not matter. When you do this you allow them to take away your happiness and power.


Your emotions have this power at multiple levels and they are very important.


How you feel impacts your life. It can be difficult to let these emotions come out when you have learned/taught yourself to hide them. You must find a way to reclaim your life and your emotions.


Sweeping your emotions under the rug or being forced to shove them into a closet is completely unhealthy. A can of soda once shaken will only explode after opened. 


To overcome “hidden” emotions, you have to look inside of yourself and understand what they mean. You need to get to the root of your emotions and analyze why you have hidden them. 


You deserve to express your emotions and you have a right to feel the way that you do. The way that you express them matters, as well. Pay attention to your delivery when expressing them and be mindful of your words.


Heal those emotions by first understanding, then analyzing them, expressing them in a healthy way, and evolving the way that you think and value yourself.


You matter. You are enough. Your thoughts and emotions are important.


Proverbs 15:33 
“A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is crushed.” I am not saying that everyday and everything should be all sunshine, however I am saying it is much healthier and much more productive to be happier and feeling that your emotions, views, and your voice matters. God/Higher Beings/The Universe dwell within you, when things become altered or overshadowed it affects every other part of your life. Clearing away the fog changes everything.


2 Timothy 1:7
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Your emotions are yours, you should not feel shunned, shut-out, or constrained because of someone else or something. You are a strong person with brilliant ideas, intimate emotions, and unique gifts and talents; learning what they mean, how to handle them and their importance are some of the best gifts that you can ever give yourself.


Know your value and your worth, this is key is overcoming these emotions that you have hidden. Let the light shine in and allow yourself to speak again…it will change your life.


Be blessed and be at peace.


#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
Cholera- Although this is not a prevalent disease in the U.S.,  it is important to think about it as travelers to areas with a cholera epidemic may contract it. This disease still occurs in many places such as Haiti and Southeast Asia. This disease can be prevented and treated.  It is a diarrheal illness and other symptoms may or may not be present, but they can be severe. Approximately 10% of people are infected with Cholera (CDC). Diagnosis is reached via a stool sample. An oral rehydration solution may be the treatment route for Cholera; some require an IV for fluid replacement. Prevention: access to clean water, sanitation, and basic hygiene needs. Be mindful and take good care of yourself. Seek a physician or trusted provider whenever you need to or feel that something isn’t right.


Emotions, Evolving, God, Universe, Challenges, Voice, Epidemiology, Global Health, Public Health, Empowerment, Strength
Overcoming Abuse

Overcoming Abuse

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


This is one that truly hits home for me, as I endured physical and mental abuse in my past. I saw this blog as an opportunity to be completely open and vulnerable with you. I know that you may be experiencing this now, or may be moving beyond that pain and I am going to give you some insight, love, and support during this time.


Feeling pain from physical abuse, mental/emotional abuse, or verbal abuse can hurt and plague your life with stress, anxiety, depression, and countless triggers. I know your pain and I know your feelings, and I want to help you get through it and help you take back your life.


If you are still in an abusive relationship/friendship or in a seemingly abuse work relationship, you need to take inventory on your life. 


Abusive Personal Relationships
Intimate: Although a person may say that they did not mean it or it will not happen again, remember that it should not have happened at all. Don’t let them take you out of character or make you change your view of yourself. Remember that you are made in God’s image and you can be anything that you want to be in life; don’t let anyone’s thoughts/behaviors hold you hostage. If someone says that no one else will want you, remember that there are billions of other people in the world and if you were only meant to be with one person you would have been assigned them/physically connected to them at birth. You are handsome/You are beautiful and there are many others who would feel lucky to have someone like you to love because of all that you have to offer (internally) and your wonderful spirit.


People that hurt us with no remorse, do not need to be in our lives. Fight back in whatever way you can to leave; analyze your situation and be prepared to leave safely. Call the police and report it. If you have a friend/family member you can trust have them help you move out. I promise, no matter how much your partner may pull you away from your family/friends someone still cares and loves you. 


A person should not speak negatively to you: yelling at you, cursing at you, calling you out of your name, etc. If your significant other is showing you signs of a high temper, uncontrollable anger/behavior, pay attention and know that you cannot change someone who does not see a problem with what they are doing. Even if they say that it is not their normal behavior and they do not know where it came from, know that their words are more than likely not the truth. Anger doesn’t come out of nowhere, nor does abuse. Being under the influence is not an excuse, either. Pay attention and believe what you are shown.


Be mindful of patterns.


Never forget: You did not make them do it.


There are foundations, organizations, shelters, etc. to support you if you need it. If you need help finding one, let me know and I will assist you in every way humanly possible. I care and I want to help you.


Friends
Yes, friends can abuse you. If they make fun of you “jokingly”, use you, only call when they need something, take and never give, etc. they do not need to be in your life. People will only do what they are allowed to do. If your “friend” is only there for selfish reasons, show them the nearest exit. Stand up for yourself and demand what you deserve or leave if it is not within your friendship. Be kind and still pay attention; do not be blinded by history or false sense of friendship.


Work
If your superiors/coworkers are using you for their benefit and do not support you, encourage you, offer you room for growth, etc. you may not belong there. You have to realize that you have special gifts and talents that you can offer the team/business and those gifts have a significant value. 


Do not let others misuse you, abuse you, cause you pain, break your spirit, degrade you, attack you, etc.  If either person in a relationship is not wanting to be in the relationship anymore, step away. If problems only get bigger and voices only get louder, it is time to go.


Brokenness can be re-shaped. You must be able to look within yourself and see your value and your worth (yes, the two are different). You have something special about yourself that cannot be taken away from you and that is what you must focus on when overcoming these abusive relationships. 


You need to do something with your time that is productive. Get back in school, get a hobby, do volunteer work; do all of these things for yourself. You can heal inside, but it will take time. Yoga, meditation, silent retreats, sound psychological counseling, prayer, support groups, etc. can all be amazingly beneficial things for you to do. You have to do what works for you, and you do not need someone to do these things with you.


The most important thing for you to do after you have gotten away from your abusive past is to not look back. You left for a reason and you faced something that you should have never had to deal with. I know that there may be a lingering feeling trying to remember a piece of good/some happy memories, but I promise you it is not worth revisiting the pain.


You have a strength inside of yourself that you must tap into, and believe me you can do it.


The Universe nor God want you to endure abuse of any sort, so it is time to heal as best as you can. 


Psalms 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” You are hurting or you are still hurting, but know that there is a healing unlike any other coming your way. Seek help and pray about your situation. There is a better life/person for you. This wound needs more than a band-aid, this is definitely a surgery type of situation, so do what it takes to overcome and get stronger. God can heal you in a way that no other can; whatever higher power you connect to is with you and cares about you. You can look inside of yourself, gain wisdom/knowledge via teachings, meditation, and yoga to re-train your brain. Whatever way works for you, you need to do it starting right now.


Isaiah 40:29-31
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”  You will heal, with time and faith. It will take effort, simply waiting and believing will not get you out of your situation; you have to muster up the strength and reach inside of yourself to overcome abuse. Once you find that peace and your happiness, never let anyone take it away.


The truth of the matter is that yes you may currently be a victim, but you can become a survivor and a significant blessing with someone else, with new friends (or none at all) or by working elsewhere. You may feel weak right now but take it from a survivor-turned-warrior, you will find your strength.


Remember, you are not alone. I’ll listen to you, cry with you, pray with you, empower you, and help you in any way that I can.


Be blessed and be at peace.


#KayLasPositivityCorner







***Health Spotlight***
STD’s the prevalence of is increasing with time. Please remember that your body is your own and you have the option to say no and that is good enough; if someone sees a problem with that they can leave and you can tell them you are no longer interested. According to the CDC: there were approximately 2.3 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea & syphilis last year (more than 200,000) than the previous year. Get tested regularly, even if you are not in a relationship. There is free help at most community health clinics. Do not be scared to seek help, if you need it. You can experience many horrible symptoms and beyond if you do not get medical help. Protect yourself and others by doing the right thing.




Abuse, Empowerment, Epidemiology, Global Health, Healing, Overcoming, Public Health, Relationships, Strength
What Does It Mean To Overcome?

What Does It Mean To Overcome?

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

©KayLaN.Allen


You climb your mountain and miss a step, but catch yourself.
You drive your car in the rain and slide a bit, but you get back on track immediately.
You face your scars and remember that you are a beautiful product of your life experiences.


Overcoming means to:
Move beyond, gain control, or defeat something. This definition can be different for each person and in every situation. The key is to understand what it means to you.


A person can talk to you for hours about overcoming and not truly understand what it means to you.


The real definition is inside of yourself.


Maybe overcoming means taking back your power.
Maybe overcoming means getting out of a bad relationship for yourself and your family.
Maybe overcoming means that you learn to clearly see how the universe is working in your favor.
Maybe overcoming means that you step out of your comfort zone and into the realm that you are supposed to be in.  
Maybe overcoming means getting control of the chaos in your life.
-Whatever it means to you, it is up to you to look deeper into what it would mean to make that change, overcome that battle, or climb that new hill.


Understanding what it means to overcome is how you can prepare to do it.


You find meaning and value in life and your journey by taking the time to truly look inside of yourself and allow change and evolution to occur.


Challenge yourself to take a moment and write down what is truly bothering you. This is the beginning of facing what is bringing problems to your life. 


Job 8:7
“…Though your beginning was small, your latter will be great.” You may not be where you dream of being, but it is surely coming- it has been promised to you. The universe is in full-creation mode and is bringing opportunities your way that you did not know existed. God has a blessing and vision for your life. 


Proverbs 2:12-15
“Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways, who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil, whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.”  Taking the time to do the work, writing it all down, facing the problem and understanding what it means to overcome your storm is the first step in developing a new area of wisdom.  This wisdom could be the key to your success or in finding true happiness within yourself. What would it mean to defeat the storm in your life?


Are you able to open the doors of promise and opportunity now? Do you still have some preparation to do? If you aren’t ready, that is okay for now…but you need to get ready. You need to stop just dealing with it and start preparing to change.


Now that you understand the basic meaning of overcoming, you are ready to learn to make it happen. Buckle up, it may be a bumpy ride.


Be blessed and be at peace.


#KayLasPositivityCorner


***Health Spotlight***
Chickenpox can cause extreme problems for people of all ages.  The virus that it is linked to it, VZV, can spread via touching, breathing in particles, and possibly through droplets. Getting the vaccine is the best protection; you can still get chickenpox but the severity will be decreased, you will have fewer blisters and less of a fever. It is essential that you do your part to take care of yourself and your family. Calamine and colloidal oatmeal baths are a go-to to relieve itching, and acetaminophen over-the-counter may help reduce fever as well. Although there has been a decline in the number of people with a VZV virus over the past two decades, it is still affecting over 3 million people a year according to the CDC. Seek the care of a physician or any medical provider; there is affordable care available. 


Overcoming, Balance, Empowerment, Growth, Public Health, Epidemiology, Global Health, Positivity, Wisdom, Mental Health, Strength, Success
W-Worthy

W-Worthy

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


No matter what obstacles you face in your life, you are worthy of the great things that you want for yourself.


What does it mean to be worthy? How do you know if you are worthy?


Worthiness inside of you means that you are deserving, it is as simple as that. You know that you are worthy of all that life, God, and the Universe have to offer you if you are leading a kind, compassionate, thriving, humble, determined, prosperous, and goal-driven life. 


Every one of us has a story to tell, a testimony to share and spread, and some element of pain attached to a part of us; it is all about what we do with those lessons and moments that will show us that we are living in our purpose and we are worthy to be great. 


I always mention living in your purpose, and it is important to do so no matter what is happening in your life. 


If you are sad in a moment or angry at someone, guess what? You need to think about it in the moment and then let it go. Remember that you are worthy of happiness and pure joy. You are not perfect and you may have some growing to do, but you are still worthy.


Worthiness is not something that can be shoved into your mind, though. You must be in tune with yourself and be able to look in the mirror at more than the image being reflected back to you.


Show and remind yourself that you are worthy by taking care of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. 


Even if you aren’t going anywhere for the day, even if your kids are driving you crazy, even if your job is draining you…get yourself together physically; get healthy, cut out your bad habits that are damaging your body and your life. You deserve to look well-groomed, polished and like the worthy being that you are.


Even if the storms in your life are turning into what seem to be disasters, be prayerful and meditate. If you are not taking care of your thoughts and what you put out into the Universe, how can you expect to live out your biggest dreams or achieve your highest goals. You deserve and are worthy of a healthy mental state. Do what is best for you.


Even if you are feeling depressed, anxious, broken, or lost remember that worthiness and happiness are embedded inside of you. You are an amazing and blessed being that is unlike any other and you have so much to offer the world. You are worthy of love, kindness, compassion, and so much more.


Even if you don’t go to church, if your faith is shaken, or if you have lost hope in the Universe know that your spirit is still intact and you are worthy of strength in your faith. You have everything that you need to be spiritually strong within you, but you must tap into it and be consistent.


Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” God knew that you were worthy before you were even created, don’t block yourself from all that He has promised.
The Universe is aware of your needs and wishes, don’t be blind to all that it is working out for you and all that it has to offer you.


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.” Greatness is what you are made of and from, so doesn’t that mean that you are directly destined for and worthy of greatness? You were made of all that is love from He and what is love, therefore you are worthy of love and all that is made for you.


Blessings are flowing all around you and you are worthy of each one. Stop letting things (or people) block you from receiving what you are worthy of. Make the changes that are necessary for you to grow and become all that you are worthy of. 


Do you think are worthy now? The answer should be and needs to be YES!!!


***Health Spotlight***
West Nile Virus- A common virus caused by mosquitoes; approximately 1 in every 150 people with the infection develop a serious illness and 1 in 5 develop symptoms, according to the CDC.  The virus has a regular transmission cycle and can affect humans and other mammals. It is found in North America, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and West Asia, according to the WHO. Use EPA registered insect repellent and follow the application directions. Further protect yourself by wearing appropriate clothing. There are small things that you can do to protect yourself and your little ones. Failing to prepare could be detrimental, so do what is necessary to take care of your family.


Be blessed and be at peace.


#KayLasPositivityCorner


Worthy, Change, Global Health, Public Health, Mental Health, Manifest, Overcome, Epidemiology, Prosperity, Strength, Thinking, Universe, God, Evolving,