The Art of Being Well Growing Up With Schizophrenia: Medicinal Forgiveness, Healing Trauma & The Big Silence | Karena Dawn
Dec 25, 2025
Karena Dawn, a wellness entrepreneur and mental health advocate, shares her transformative journey from growing up with a mother who had schizophrenia to finding her purpose through fitness and community. She discusses the impact of trauma, vulnerability, and spirituality on her healing process. Karena also opens up about her struggles with depression and substance misuse, the power of forgiveness, and how founding The Big Silence Foundation helps others facing mental health challenges. Her insights on holistic wellness and community focus inspire a bright path forward.
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Volunteer To Access Wellness Classes
- If you can't afford classes, volunteer at studios to access yoga or movement classes for free.
- Use low-cost creativity to build consistent movement and meditation into your routine.
Harness Vulnerability For Healing
- Practice vulnerability to free yourself from shame and find your voice by journaling and sharing your story.
- Embrace non-judgment and allow others' stories to remind you that you are not alone.
Emotional Honesty Impacts Physical Health
- Karena noticed that reducing stress and being authentic lowered her psoriasis flare-ups and improved mood.
- She connects emotional openness directly to measurable physical improvements.