Empowering College Students to Thrive through Wellness and Self-Love
Our Story
“Karima Maryam McKenzie is a trained and certified educator of 19 years. Over a decade, she's made a significant impact as a math teacher, coach, and administrator, touching the lives of thousands of children. Through her burnout to the point of anxiety, depression, and on the brink of suicide, her battle with mental health struggles was the catalyst for authoring the book, “Temples Are Sacred and So Are You” - a guide for the reader on how to honor themselves. Now she is on a mission to prevent others from experiencing the same. She teaches individuals how to treat their bodies like the Sacred Temples that they are, such that they can become their highest selves. She is dedicated to promoting unconditional love and self-respect by helping college students learn how to unconditionally love themselves and treat their bodies with respect using her T.E.M.P.L.E.S. method. Her heartfelt mission is to emphasize the sacredness and potential within every college student, fostering their journey towards becoming the best version of themselves."
Our Mission
“Temples Are Sacred" is dedicated to empowering college students to recognize and embrace their inherent worth. Our mission is to foster self-awareness, inspire a commitment to physical health and movement, and teach effective meditation techniques. We aim to guide these college students in setting healthy boundaries, connecting their minds, bodies, and spirits, and cultivating courage.
Through our work, we strive to boost their self-confidence and assist them in defining their core values. At Temples Are Sacred, we believe in the sacredness of every individual and are committed to nurturing this belief in the hearts of the college students we serve.
What is the T.E.M.P.L.E.S. method?
It is an immersive experience that includes 8 Core Lessons that embodies our T.E.M.P.L.E.S. approach. Each letter represents a key area of focus to help college students honor themselves, their families, and their schools while navigating the challenges of being a student:
"T" is for Truth, Trauma, Trust & Train: We help college students face their truths, heal from trauma, build trust, and train for success.
"E" is for Exercise & Elevate: We motivate college students to incorporate body movement and elevate their mindset.
"M" is for Meditate & Manifest: We teach effective meditation techniques and how to manifest their dreams.
"P" is for Pray & Protect: We guide college students in spiritual practices and teach them to protect their energy.
"L" is for Love & Learn: We foster self-love and continuous learning including the importance of controlling their emotions.
"E" is for Eat to Live: We promote healthy eating habits for a vibrant life.
"S" is for Smile, Speak & Surround: We encourage positivity, effective communication, and creating a supportive environment.
The Struggles of College Students & Why They Need Us
College students face a multitude of challenges that can significantly impact their mental health and overall well-being.
According to recent surveys, 71% of college students report experiencing issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Mental health is cited as the top stressor by 50% of students, with financial concerns (39%) and academic pressures (37%) following closely behind.
The strain of managing coursework, financial burdens, and social expectations often leads to severe stress, with 77% of students not utilizing available support services offered by their institutions (What To Become) (Cleveland Clinic).
Concerns Expressed by College Students & Why They Need Our Help
"I'm constantly stressed about keeping up with my coursework and exams."
"Balancing a part-time job and my studies is overwhelming."
"I'm struggling with homesickness and feeling isolated from my family."
"Financial worries are making it hard to focus on my education."
"I feel a lot of pressure to find a job after graduation and it's affecting my mental health."
"Dealing with relationship issues is adding to my stress and anxiety."
"I'm having trouble maintaining a healthy lifestyle with my busy schedule."
"I'm not getting enough sleep, which is impacting my academic performance."
"I'm worried about my future and whether I'll be able to achieve my career goals."
"It's hard to find a support system that understands what I'm going through."
And Why You Need Our Help
College administrators are also deeply concerned about the well-being of their students. Common issues they face include:
"Many students are struggling with severe stress and mental health issues, and our resources are limited."
"The increasing rates of anxiety and depression among students are alarming."
"We're seeing a high number of students dealing with financial instability, which impacts their academic success."
"Behavioral issues related to stress are becoming more frequent in the classroom."
"There is a significant gap in students seeking help through available support services."
"The pressure of academic performance is causing burnout among students."
"We need more effective programs to address the holistic needs of our students."
"Students' lack of sleep and poor physical health are major concerns."
"Social isolation and homesickness are prevalent among first-year students."
"We are challenged with providing adequate support for students balancing work and studies."
What We Offer
“Temples Are Sacred” Program (Available In-Person and Online)
Our 8-week program addresses the challenges faced by today's active and socially engaged college students from the ages of 18-24. Recognizing their need for tools to protect themselves energetically, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, we aim to foster self-awareness, encourage physical activity, teach meditation techniques, and promote mind-body-spirit connection. Our goal is to enhance their courage, self-confidence, and help them define their core values, transforming their lives despite the pressures of the digital age.
Empowerment Speaking
When you book Karima to speak at your school or organization, you're not just getting a motivational speech. You're investing in a transformative experience for your students. Karima's speaking engagements are designed to foster self-awareness and self-love, teach students how to honor their bodies and minds as sacred temples, provide practical tools for handling social and emotional issues, and inspire students to take charge of their wellness and personal growth.
Temples Are Sacred And So Are You Book
Using the word TEMPLES as an acronym, Karima McKenzie identifies seven real world, practical ways for young people to treat their bodies like a Temple. This transformative guide gives every young reader a call to take action to honor their bodies, minds, and spirit.
“Temples Are Sacred and So Are You” Curriculum
This 17-week “A Journey to Self Love” course aims to guide students on a journey of self-discovery, self-love, and personal growth through the exploration of their inner temple. Students will learn to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and positive relationships while honoring their sacred selves. The course will incorporate reflective practices, interactive activities, and practical strategies to support students' holistic well-being.
Testimonials
“Outstanding and thought provoking.”
“This session taught me how to love myself and your temple is scared.”
“Very inspiring, touches the heart.”
