377 | Strategies To Help Cope and Overcome Mental Health Battles with Karena Dawn

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome Karina Dorn, co-founder of Tone It Up and a New York Times bestselling author. Karina shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood with a mentally ill mother to becoming a successful entrepreneur and mental health advocate. She discusses her struggles with depression, substance abuse, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Karina emphasizes the power of movement, meditation, and community support in fostering mental well-being. Her foundation, "The Big Silence," aims to create open conversations about mental health. VivoBarefoot Discount:Improve your foot and ankle health with VivoBarefoot shoes. Perfect for every occasion—whether hiking, casual wear, or an active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" for 20% off! Plus, enjoy a 100-day trial with a full refund guarantee. LMNT Discount Code:Stay hydrated at a cellular level with LMNT! Replenish essential electrolytes and get a free gift with every purchase. ⁠⁠Try some new flavors while you fuel your body. ⁠⁠Get your free gift! Jen Health Platform:Access 12 plans, 200+ videos, and monthly webinars to improve mobility, strength, and pain relief. Join Jen Health to feel better with movement! Learn More from Karena: Karena’s Website The Big Silence Foundation Listen to The Big Silence Podcast Buy the memoir, The Big Silence Get Tone It Up here Follow Karena on Instagram Follow The Big Silence on Instagram Follow Tone It Up on Instagram We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel What You Will Learn in This Interview with Karena Dawn: 03:13 Introduction of Karina Dawn 04:17 Karina's Memoir and Journey 07:45 The Big Silence Foundation 09:39 Personal Struggles and Triumphs 10:39 Building Tone It Up 12:56 Opening Up About Mental Health 15:19 Educating Loved Ones on Mental Illness 17:20 Being There for Others 18:27 Caretaking Experience 22:12 Consequences of Bottling Emotions 23:51 Self-Care as a Caretaker 25:25 Meditation Journey 27:23 Starting Meditation 31:26 Meditation's Impact on Anxiety 33:58 Movement and Mental Health 34:35 Importance of Movement Frequency 36:46 Daily Movement Benefits 39:53 Community and Movement 40:42 Impact of Lack of Movement 41:35 Accessibility of Healthy Practices 42:55 Resources for Mental Health