Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Healing and Support During the Holidays: Navigating Emotional Pain with Strength and Peace*


Greetings,

The holidays are often seen as a time for joy, connection, and celebration. But for many, they can also bring up deep emotions, especially when dealing with past pain, betrayal, or loss. Whether you're facing emotional wounds from a relationship, family dynamics, or just the weight of everything happening around you, the holidays can be overwhelming.

Healing Together If you’re struggling this holiday season, know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Healing and support are available to you, and there are steps you can take to find peace, strength, and hope in the midst of it all. One of the greatest resources for mental and emotional well-being is NAMI.org (National Alliance on Mental Illness), which offers support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. NAMI can help guide you through difficult times, offering community support and practical tools to manage your mental health. Remember, emotional healing is a process, and it’s okay to take your time. Allow yourself the space to feel, to grieve, and to heal. And while you’re navigating these emotions, don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Sometimes, that’s the first step toward healing: treating yourself with the same love, compassion, and grace you would offer a dear friend. Be Thankful for Peace and Strength In moments of difficulty, remember to be thankful to God for the peace and strength He has given you, even in the midst of the storms. It’s through those challenging times that we often find our deepest growth and resilience. God’s love and grace are always present, even when the world feels heavy. Trust that, even in your struggles, He is giving you the strength to rise above and heal. Support One Another During this season, let’s commit to supporting each other. Emotional healing is often easier when we can lean on each other, share our experiences, and find strength in community. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a support group, we can heal and grow stronger together. Listen to Our Latest Episode for More Empowerment If you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I encourage you to listen to our latest podcast episode on *TATU Your Wellbeing, LLC: Thriving After Trauma Unashamed*. In "If Someone Cheats or Hurts You, Don’t Worry—Just Do One Thing", I dive deep into how to rise above hurt and betrayal, reclaim your peace, and set boundaries to protect your emotional well-being. This episode is packed with empowering insights and practical steps to help you heal through life’s challenges. 🎧 Click here to listen to the full episode on our YouTube channel and take this healing journey with us. As you continue to navigate through the holidays and beyond, remember: to be good to yourself and to one another. Together, we can heal and support each other on the path to peace and emotional well-being. ---How has forgiveness played a role in your healing process? Takeaway: Healing is a journey, and it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s through resources like NAMI.org or by listening to our latest podcast episode, there are always ways to find support and strength. You are not alone, and your healing matters.


Sunday, October 27, 2024

From Surviving to Thriving Unashamed: A Healing Journey Beyond Domestic Violence Awareness Month



 

As we wrap up Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us remember that our journey towards healing does not end here. For survivors, each day is a step in a much larger process—a process of overcoming, rebuilding, and rediscovering ourselves. There are 365 days in a year, and every single one matters on this journey. If you’re reading this, know that your story is still being written, and the power to heal is within you.

Healing is not about erasing the past but about reclaiming the present and the future. Though we can’t change what happened, we can learn to thrive beyond it. Moving from striving and surviving to thriving unashamed is a journey that requires courage, community, and intentional self-love. You don’t have to walk this path alone; there is a community ready to uplift and support you.

Breaking the Silence, Honoring Your Journey

Every story of survival holds its own strength. By honoring our stories, we break the silence and dismantle the shame that often accompanies trauma. For many survivors, the weight of domestic violence or trauma can create a lingering sense of guilt, fear, or unworthiness. Yet, honoring our journey means recognizing that we are not defined by our trauma—we are defined by the strength it took to survive.

As survivors, we are here to remind each other that there is no need to carry this weight alone. Sharing your journey with a trusted community, therapist, or support group can be the beginning of a powerful release, helping to rebuild a sense of safety and connection.

From Surviving to Thriving: Building a Life of Intention and Self-Love

Living beyond trauma is about creating a life where you are not just surviving each day but thriving—growing, dreaming, and living unashamed of what you’ve endured. Here are ways to support yourself on this journey:

  1. Set Boundaries with Confidence: After trauma, setting healthy boundaries is essential. Boundaries are a form of self-respect and self-care, allowing you to protect your energy and mental well-being. Don’t be afraid to say no to anything that doesn’t serve your healing.

  2. Practice Intentional Self-Love: Healing starts with love and compassion for yourself. Find practices that nurture you, whether it’s journaling, meditation, exercise, or a creative hobby. Take time each day to remind yourself of your worth and the incredible resilience within you.

  3. Seek Support and Build Connections: Trauma can feel isolating, but there are many resources, from online support groups to local organizations, ready to provide understanding and encouragement. Community is powerful—find people who can stand with you, listen, and remind you of the light within you.

  4. Embrace the Healing Process: Healing isn’t linear. Some days will feel harder than others, and that’s okay. Allow yourself grace and patience as you navigate this path. Remember, thriving doesn’t mean perfection; it means growth, one step at a time.

  5. Give Yourself Permission to Thrive: Trauma can create a mindset of mere survival, but you deserve more than just “getting by.” You are worthy of joy, peace, and fulfillment. Give yourself permission to dream big and envision a life beyond the scars of your past. You deserve it.

Healing Together: A 365-Day Commitment to Thriving Unashamed

For survivors, Domestic Violence Awareness Month is not limited to October. Every day, someone is beginning their journey to freedom, healing, and empowerment. By coming together, we can create spaces of strength and support, reminding each other that it is possible to live fully and unashamed. Your healing matters, and so does the healing of every survivor you may meet along the way.

The journey from surviving to thriving unashamed is one of the most courageous paths a person can walk. Today, as you read this, I invite you to take one intentional step toward healing—whether it’s reaching out for help, setting a new goal, or giving yourself a moment of self-compassion. You are not alone, and your story does not end with trauma. It is a story of strength, courage, and a commitment to reclaiming your life.

Join us on this journey. We are a community that believes in healing, growth, and living unashamed. Together, we can make sure that every day of the year is a day of awareness, support, and thriving.

To every survivor: you are worthy, and you are more than enough.

Resource: 

Help is available

Speak with someone today

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Languages: English, Spanish, and 200+ through interpretation service
Hours: 24/7

Igniting Inspiration for a Powerful Start to Your Work Week

TATU: Thriving After Trauma Unashamed Motivational Momentum Every Sunday at 6 PM | Hosted by Author Atara TATU Estes Ignite your spirit and start your week with powerful inspiration! Join Atara TATU Estes, trauma survivor, author, and motivational speaker, as she hosts a transformative session every Sunday at 6 PM. Through personal stories, faith-filled wisdom, and messages of hope, Atara empowers you to reclaim your strength, walk in healing, and thrive unashamed. Subscribe, follow, and share to be a part of our uplifting community. Visit ataraestes.com to join the journey towards healing and self-liberation!

Friday, September 13, 2024

Thriving After Trauma Unashamed: A Journey of Survival, Healing, and Triumph


 

Thriving After Trauma Unashamed: A Journey of Survival, Healing, and Triumph

It was Friday, September 13, 2002, a date forever etched in my memory—22 years ago today. On that day, I survived something unimaginable: blindfolded, shot in the back, thrown into a trunk, and left for dead. Domestic violence almost took my life, but God saw fit to keep me alive. Only He knew why I would be spared through such devastating adversity, an experience that still echoes in the scars, nerve damage, and a bullet lodged in my chest cavity.

Living with the physical pain was a constant reminder of that dark moment. Chronic migraines, PTSD, and depression tried to overwhelm me. The emotional wounds of trying to understand "Why did this happen to me?" were almost more than I could bear. But through the storm, I fought—physically, mentally, and spiritually. I clung to God, pleading for the strength to endure the pain and the wisdom to reclaim the broken pieces of who I once was.

I died emotionally on that day, and for a long time, I believed I would never live or love again. But God, in His infinite grace, spoke to me, reminding me that what the enemy meant for harm, He would turn around for my good. Genesis 50:20 says, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." And that scripture was my turning point.

God said, “Give Me your hate, your hurt, your pain, your sorrow, your unforgiveness, and love Me. Let Me carry what you cannot.” In that moment, I surrendered it all to Him. From that surrender, a new purpose emerged—one rooted in my testimony of survival and the hope that came with it.

I began sharing my story on public platforms: TV interviews, podcasts, and speaking engagements, raising awareness about domestic and dating violence. I penned my self-published survivor book, Damaged Goods: My Journey in 2014, as an offering of hope to others who might be suffering in silence. Now, 22 years later, I am working on turning that book into a film, speaking at women's shelters, advising on trauma recovery, and being a voice for survivors who still feel voiceless.

But my journey didn’t stop there. Out of my pain, I birthed something beautiful. I launched my holistic wellness business, TATU Your Wellbeing, LLC—Thriving After Trauma Unashamed. Through this business, I’ve brought life to other ventures like Atara Healing Visual Artwork and Photography, Atara Global Innovation, and Ruth's Healing Harvest Farmacy. These projects have allowed me to integrate creativity, faith, and holistic health into the healing process for others who are seeking wholeness after trauma.

Today, as I reflect on these past 22 years, I cannot help but marvel at what God has done in my life. From the pit of despair to the heights of purpose, I have learned to not only live but to love myself fully. The enemy tried to kill my dreams, steal my joy, and destroy my soul—but God had a greater plan. And in that plan, I have found the freedom to thrive.

For anyone out there still struggling with the aftermath of trauma, I want you to know that you can rise. There is life after pain, and there is hope beyond despair. I stand as living proof that no matter what you've been through, you can thrive.

I will continue to share my story because it’s not just about survival—it’s about thriving unashamed. Now, as I live to learn, I have learned to truly live.

To all survivors: Never let your trauma define you. Let your healing redefine you.

With love and faith,
Atara Estes
TATU: Thriving After Trauma Unashamed

www.ataraestes.com

FB: Author Atara Estes , TATU Your Wellbeing

Resources: 

National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.):

  • Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Text: Text "START" to 88788
  • Availability: 24/7, confidential, and free. Services in English and Spanish, and translation available for 200+ languages.
Love Is Respect – National Dating Abuse Helpline (for youth):
  • Phone: 1-866-331-9474
  • Text: Text "LOVEIS" to 22522
  • Availability: 24/7, confidential, and free. Focuses on healthy relationships and preventing dating abuse for teens and young adults.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.):
  • Phone: Call or text 988
  • Availability: 24/7, confidential, and free. Provides support for individuals in emotional distress, experiencing a mental health crisis, or contemplating suicide.

Thursday, August 29, 2024

🎉 Celebrating the 2nd Annual National CHW Awareness Week 🎉

 Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and beloved Community Health Workers,

As we gather here today to celebrate the 2nd Annual National CHW Awareness Week, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and admiration for each one of you. This is more than just a week of recognition—this is a moment in history. We are here to honor the dedication, resilience, leadership, and compassion that you, the CHWs, embody every single day.

You are the unsung heroes of our communities. When the world feels heavy, and the challenges seem insurmountable, it is your strength that carries us through. You stand on the front lines, not just as healthcare providers, but as advocates, educators, and trusted confidants. You are the heartbeat of our communities, the lifeline that connects us to health, hope, and healing.

Your work is not easy. The path you walk is often fraught with obstacles and uncertainty, but still, you persevere. Why? Because you understand that the work you do is more than a job—it is a calling. A calling to serve, to uplift, and to transform lives. Your resilience is remarkable, and your compassion is boundless.

As we celebrate this week, I want each of you to take a moment to reflect on the impact you have made. Think of the lives you have touched, the communities you have strengthened, and the barriers you have broken down. You are the roots that anchor us, the leaders who inspire us, and the warriors who protect us.

But our journey does not end here. The world needs your light now more than ever. There are still so many hearts to heal, so many voices to amplify, and so much change to be made. Let this week be a reminder of your power, your purpose, and your potential.

But before you push forward, remember to take care of yourself. As we approach the Labor Day holiday, take a moment for your own self-care. You pour so much into others, but your wellness matters just as much. If you are not well, you will not be well enough to serve others. So take this time to rest, recharge, and renew your spirit. You deserve it, and your community needs you at your best.

Keep pushing forward, for the work you do is vital. Keep shining your light, for it guides us all. And keep believing in the power of your impact, for you are the changemakers, the healers, the leaders of tomorrow.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we can achieve anything. Together, we are unstoppable.

And as we celebrate, I encourage you to share this message with other CHW warriors, ally champions, and everyone who needs to know about the CHW workforce. Let’s spread the word far and wide, so that more people can understand and appreciate the critical role that CHWs play in our communities.

Thank you for your tireless dedication, your unwavering commitment, and your extraordinary contributions.

Happy National CHW Awareness Week!

Atara Estes, CHW Leadership Development Specialist at IHN and NACHW Board of Directors


Saturday, August 24, 2024

Overview of the Harris County Public Health Healthy Communities Conference


 I recently had the pleasure of attending the Harris County Public Health Healthy Communities Conference in Houston, Texas, which focused on "Deepening Community Health Workers’ Roots of Leadership, Equity, and Resilience." This trip was a refreshing recharge and one of the best business experiences I’ve had in a long time.

At the conference, I had the incredible honor of being one of three panelists, alongside Rosalia Guerrero and Alma Aranda (CHWI, Harris Health), with Dr. Heidi McPherson (Health Equity Collective) serving as our wonderful moderator. As the only out-of-town representative from St. Louis, Missouri, I was both humbled and grateful for the warm hospitality and assistance provided by the conference staff. The experience felt like a true "light, camera, action" moment, with everything coming together seamlessly.

Being on that panel in front of hundreds of passionate Community Health Workers (CHWs) and their allies was a total game changer. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and I felt an overwhelming sense of peace, knowing that I was meant to be there. The questions presented to us were not only life-changing but also offered tangible insights that others could integrate into their own work.

As I shared my experiences and best practices from St. Louis, particularly my work with the Integrated Health Network, I emphasized that while these practices are effective, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Each city and state must navigate its own guidelines and regulations, but the key is to keep moving forward. One day, that "no" you keep receiving will turn into a "yes."

Mentorship is a critical principle in supporting the CHW workforce, and it’s essential for CHWs to have a voice at decision-making tables. I challenged executive leaders and decision-makers to give credit where it’s due—acknowledging the innovative ideas that CHW employees, supervisors, managers, and specialists contribute to help organizations thrive. Without their vision and lived experiences, communities would suffer. There is true power in togetherness.

I am a CHW for life, and the best is yet to come! As we celebrate National CHW Awareness Week from August 26th to 30th, let's continue to uplift and support one another in our shared mission.

Quote for CHW Warriors: "To all the CHW warriors out there: Your dedication is the heartbeat of our communities. As we unite during National CHW Awareness Week, remember that our resilience, leadership, and compassion are the roots that strengthen us all. Keep pushing forward—the world needs our light more than ever."

If you would like to book me as a keynote speaker, presenter, or panelist at conferences or seminars, you can do so by visiting my website at www.ataraestes.com or emailing theyenetworkgroup@gmail.com. I am excited to bring my passion and expertise to your event!

This experience was more than just a professional opportunity; it was a chance to spread my wings and soar like an eagle. I am deeply thankful for this amazing opportunity to share my journey and advocate for the CHW workforce.

Atara Estes, ICHW-C

Founder of TATU Your Wellbeing, LLC (Holistic Wellness on Trauma Recovery)




Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Atara Speaks about Mental Health Awareness Month

 Atara Estes, a beacon of resilience and advocate for mental health awareness, emerged from the shadows of domestic violence, navigating a journey marked by courage, compassion, and unwavering determination. For over two decades, she confronted the daunting challenges of living with mental health repercussions stemming from her traumatic past. Amidst the turmoil, Atara remained steadfast in her commitment not only to her own well-being but also to ensuring her two daughters received the care they deserved.

Drawing upon a blend of professional therapy and holistic practices, Atara embraced a holistic approach to restore balance to her life and foster healing for her family. Her relentless advocacy for mental health destigmatization echoed through her personal and professional endeavors, a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.

Through the passage of time and the accumulation of wisdom, Atara emerged as a guiding light, a living testament to the transformative power of resilience and self-care. With every step forward, she shattered the silence surrounding mental health, offering hope and reassurance to those who may find themselves traversing similar paths.

Today, Atara stands as a living testament to the possibility of life after trauma, a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder that one's mental health matters, and that healing is not only attainable but essential. With boundless compassion and unwavering resolve, Atara extends a gentle reminder to prioritize self-care and extend kindness to one another, for in the embrace of community lies the power to heal and thrive. Follow for more and leave a comment. Visit www.ataraestes.com to join the movement!

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to Behavioral Health Response by calling 988 or visiting: bhrstl.com/crisis-hotline/

For additional resources &support, visit: bit.ly/3VtzYqf

#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #MHAM2023 

Author Atara Estes Sound the Alarm Outreach (Domestic Violence Community Outreach) Atara; Healing Photography @highlight



Healing and Support During the Holidays: Navigating Emotional Pain with Strength and Peace*

Greetings, The holidays are often seen as a time for joy, connection, and celebration. But for many, they can also bring up deep emotions, e...