We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Karla Garjaka. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Karla below.
Karla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.
In the early stages of my career journey, I found myself drawn to the fascinating world of education and the intricate workings of the human mind. With a fervent passion for teaching, I embarked on a path that eventually led me to pursue advanced studies in Educational Psychology, specializing in Neuropsychology, Linguistics, and Bilingualism.
Yet, amidst my academic pursuits, I couldn’t shake off a growing sense of unease. Witnessing countless children grappling with mental and emotional challenges, I felt compelled to dig deeper, to unravel the underlying factors contributing to their struggles.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to empower, I delved into the realms of nutritional psychology and energy psychology. Through tireless exploration, I uncovered the profound impact of fundamental aspects like diet, thoughts, exercise, and hydration on the intricate dance of the brain.
Despite facing skepticism and opposition from peers, I persisted in my quest for holistic understanding. Today, armed with a unique blend of psychological and nutritional expertise, I stand as a beacon of hope in the quest to revolutionize mental health.
Through my nonprofit organization, I strive to educate individuals about the six foundational layers crucial for nurturing a resilient and thriving brain: Breathe, Rest, Eat nutritional foods, Activate your body and mind, Being Thankful, and Hydrate. By demystifying mental health and promoting self-awareness, I aim to empower individuals to prioritize their well-being and embrace a holistic approach to life.
For aspiring young professionals contemplating the journey of starting their own practice, my advice is simple yet profound: embrace your passion, trust in your unique vision, and never underestimate the power of persistence. Surround yourself with mentors and allies who share your vision, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance and support along the way.
Above all, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and every setback is a stepping stone towards success. With dedication, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning, you have the potential to make a profound impact in the lives of others and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello, I’m Dr. Karla Garjaka, and I’m thrilled to share my journey with you. Growing up in Natal, Brazil, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. My fascination with the human mind and its incredible potential led me on a quest for knowledge and understanding.
Over the years, I’ve accumulated degrees in Education Psychology, Nutrition Psychology, Neuroscience, and School Administration. With more than three decades of experience in various educational roles—teacher, school administrator, professional development lead, researcher, and consultant—I bring a wealth of expertise to the table.
As the Founder and CEO of Globally Brighter, I lead an educational consulting company dedicated to empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. Additionally, I serve as the Founder and Executive Director of Foundation Matters, a nonprofit committed to transforming mental health.
My passion for education extends to writing, and I’m proud to be an accomplished author. From books on Nutrition and Mental Health to a beloved series of children’s books on emotional intelligence—featuring characters like Leo the bear and Halia the hedgehog—I strive to make learning engaging and accessible for all.
But beyond my credentials, I’m known for my dynamic and captivating speaking style. Whether addressing classrooms or communities, I aim to inspire and engage audiences of all ages. I believe in the power of education to transform lives, and I’m honored to share my expertise and inspiration with your community.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
In my nearly three decades of experience in education and psychology, I’ve come to a profound realization: the mental and cognitive challenges our children face today are not improving, despite advancements in technology and medical research. This recognition led me to delve deeper into understanding the root causes and potential preventive measures for this growing mental health crisis.
As I explored the intricate workings of our bodies, I uncovered a complex web of interdependence among various factors influencing our mental well-being. Traditional psychological knowledge often overlooked the profound impact of our daily routines on our brains. This realization prompted me to focus on the critical role of certain foundational factors in maintaining optimal mental health.
I observed how these foundational layers—such as breathing, rest, nutrition, exercise, gratitude, and hydration—profoundly influence our daily lives and mental states. For example, shallow breathing can lead to panic attacks and fatigue, while dehydration can impair cognitive function. Sleep deficiency has been linked to a range of mental health issues, including depression and impaired decision-making.
It became clear to me that addressing deficiencies in these foundational layers is essential for promoting mental well-being. By empowering individuals to self-assess and identify areas needing improvement, we can provide targeted support to address these deficiencies effectively.
Psychologists, educators, and professionals in related fields must recognize the complexity of our bodies and the profound impact of various factors on our brains. Understanding the intricate relationship between these factors is crucial for developing holistic intervention plans tailored to individual needs.
Ultimately, achieving a harmonious balance across all six foundational layers is key to unlocking the unique potential within each individual. As we support individuals in reaching their full potential, we not only enhance their mental well-being but also celebrate the diversity and beauty they bring to the world.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
A Journey of Resilience: From Dreams to Reality
Growing up in Brazil, the path to independence was not a typical one for young adults. In a culture where living with parents until marriage was the norm, I dared to dream of a different future. From a young age, I yearned for independence, a desire that set me on a journey of resilience and empowerment.
As high school came to an end, I shared my aspirations with my parents—to live on my own. They presented a challenge: to gain admission to the prestigious University of São Paulo (USP), the top university in our country. This meant passing a rigorous entrance exam, a daunting task that I eagerly accepted.
The first attempt ended in disappointment as I was accepted to a local university but not to USP. Despite my parents’ joy, I couldn’t shake the feeling of frustration. Determined not to let my dream slip away, I resolved to try again the following year.
The second attempt proved successful—I was accepted to USP. While I basked in the glow of achievement, my parents struggled with mixed emotions. My father’s silence spoke volumes, while my mother battled tears of pride and sadness. Despite their reservations, they supported my decision to pursue my dream.
However, the journey to independence was met with judgment and criticism from family and friends. Leaving home at 19 was deemed unconventional, and I faced a barrage of scrutiny and negativity. But amidst the challenges, I discovered resilience and strength I never knew I had.
Those college years living alone tested me in ways I never imagined. I encountered kindness and cruelty, hardship and triumph. Each obstacle was a lesson, shaping me into the woman and educator I am today. I am grateful for every trial and tribulation, for they molded me into a stronger, more resilient individual.
I extend heartfelt gratitude to those who supported me, especially my parents, who grappled with their own fears to let me pursue my dreams. Their unwavering love and sacrifice are treasures I hold dear.
Now, as a mother of three, I understand the depth of their sacrifice and appreciate their support even more. To everyone who touched my life during those formative years, I offer a heartfelt “Hoponopono”—thank you for helping me become the person I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gloaballybrighter.com /ourfoundationmatters.org/ thelearnschool.com/karlagarjaka.com
- Instagram: karla_globallybrighter – TheLEARN
- Facebook: Karla Garjaka
- Linkedin: Karla Garjaka
- Youtube: Globally Brighter