Discover how Keyayanna of Ashakti Wellness is transforming mental health and holistic wellness. A psychotherapist, wellness coach, and Reiki practitioner in Charlotte, she blends therapy with mindfulness, somatic practices, and spiritual healing to help individuals reconnect with their whole selves.

From her early work at the College of Charleston to creating her YouTube channel Ray of Sunshines, Mindset and Miles, Keyayanna has always centered mentorship, community, and personal growth in her journey. Her approach encourages clients to explore what resonates for them—whether that’s therapy, Reiki, sound baths, or mindfulness exercises—because holistic wellness is about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit together.

This blog shares her inspiring story, practical wellness tips, and insights into building a life that aligns with your whole self. Perfect for anyone seeking guidance, encouragement, and real-world strategies for mental and emotional wellbeing.

Embrace Your Many Gifts

When asked how she stays balanced while juggling acting, writing, communications, and her brand, Sophie Milord’s answer was honest: "I don't. I'm tired all the time."

But Sophie—a fellow Gemini and multi-hyphenate—rejects the idea that she has to choose just one path. Her philosophy is simple: "God gave you all those gifts because you can handle it. Don't let that suddenly become a weakness, because it's not. It's a blessing."

Her advice to any creative feeling overwhelmed is to ignore the pressure and simply:

“Just be who you are, regardless... Do what you want to do, be who you are, and just express yourself, and just keep it pushing, keep it moving.”

Interviewing Your Therapist

I recently sat down with my friend from college, Janae Tipton, a phenomenal marriage and family therapist. Her approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, meaning she creates a non-judgemental space and walks with clients toward who they want to become.

A major point Janae stressed? Therapy isn't just for crises. Come when you're doing well so you can practice tools before life gets rocky.

And her best advice for starting the journey:

Interview your therapist. Just like you interview for a job. If you don’t feel comfortable, seen, or safe? You are allowed, encouraged, actually to find someone else.”

Faith, Grit, and Divine Timing with Walnette Carrington

When you meet Walnette Carrington—the actress recently seen lighting up screens in Netflix’s Ruth and Boaz—there’s a calm confidence that immediately draws you in.

Before acting, her path looked very different. Though she enrolled in journalism, a casting call her mom heard on the radio changed everything. Walnette submitted, booked her first project, and realized: “It was the first time I felt something that real. Acting became therapeutic for me.”

From early indie projects to major films, her journey has been one of growth and grit. Her latest role as Lena in Ruth and Boaz stripped away the glam, forcing her to show up as her authentic self to tell a story of sisterhood and loyalty.

Now, with the film ranking No. 1 in multiple countries, Carrington remains grounded and grateful. Her advice to the next dreamer is simple:

“Your dream is yours. God placed it in your heart for a reason... Stay rooted in faith and surround yourself with people who believe in you. You’re going to need that community.”