Swasthya-- Rooted to the Self

When most people hear the word osteoarthritis , they immediately think of “wear and tear” in the joints that can only get worse with time. Many even feel that joint replacement surgery is the only answer. But that isn’t always true. With the right care, movement, and lifestyle changes, you can continue to live an active, pain-free life well into your later years. Why Does Osteoarthritis Hurt? It’s easy to blame the joint itself for all the pain, but the story is bigger than that. When cartilage (the cushioning inside joints) wears down, the surrounding muscles and tissues become stiff . Over time, weak muscles can’t support the joint properly, which causes inflammation and pain. In short—it’s not just the joint, but the whole support system around it that matters. The Power of Movement and Physiotherapy One of the best treatments for osteoarthritis is not rest—but movement. Gentle exercises and physiotherapy strengthen the muscles that protect your joints. When these muscles are ...

  In my daily work as a physician, I sit with people in their most vulnerable moments—when they’re anxious, hurting, or struggling to find hope. Medicine requires sharp attention, but also presence, patience, and compassion. Over the years, I have discovered that the practices I turn to outside the clinic—music, dance, and other art forms—are not separate from my work. They are the very tools that ground and guide me. Dance as Meditation: A Lesson from the Natyashastra One of my favorite verses from the Natyashastra captures this beautifully: “Yato hasta tatho drishti, Yato drishti tatho manah, Yato manah tatho bhava, Yato bhava tatho rasa.” Where the hands go, the eyes follow; where the eyes go, the mind follows; where the mind goes, expression arises; and where expression arises, emotion blossoms. When I practice dance, I see this unfold within myself. The movement of the body trains the eyes, the eyes anchor the mind, and soon my entire being is aligned in presence. I...

In an age where every conversation about gender begins with *"equality,"* we seem to have forgotten a fundamental truth—**women and men are not equal, because they are not meant to be the same.** And that’s not a statement of oppression. It is a statement of power. Let us stop reducing the divine feminine to checklists of rights and salaries. A woman is not “equal” to a man. She is **so much more.** ** Only a Woman’s Body Can Bring Life Into the World** This is not a poetic metaphor. It is a biological, spiritual, and cosmic reality. No matter how advanced science becomes, **no artificial womb can replicate the profound, creative intelligence of a woman’s body**—an ecosystem so refined it can form, nourish, and bring forth life from a single cell. Her body is not just sacred; it is a portal between the seen and the unseen. To compare this divine ability with notions of sameness is not just incorrect—it is disrespectful. ** She Nurtures the Child, Shapes the Soul, Builds the C...

 *Managing Stress as a Woman: A Doctor, Entrepreneur, Homemaker, and Daughter-in-Law in a Joint Family* In today’s world, women are often praised for “doing it all.” But what does that actually mean? As a physician, entrepreneur, homemaker, and a woman living in a traditional Indian joint family, I’ve come to realize that the real triumph isn’t in juggling everything—it’s in choosing wisely, living intentionally, and showing up for yourself and others with love and grace. Here are a few lessons that have helped me navigate stress—and maybe they’ll resonate with you too. 1. *Choose Your Priority—Then Own It* The best advice I ever received was from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: “Begin with the end in mind.” Imagine how you want to be remembered when you're no longer here. That simple exercise puts everything in perspective. We, as women, are constantly balancing expectations—work deadlines, children’s schedules, household needs, and often, invisible societal pressures. It...

  Stress has become a constant companion in our modern lives, often impacting our physical and mental well-being. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers timeless wisdom on cultivating balance and resilience in the face of daily stress through Dinacharya —a structured daily routine that aligns with nature’s rhythms. Incorporating Dinacharya principles into our day-to-day lives can help reduce perceived stress, enhance productivity, and improve overall health. Here's an elaborate guide to managing stress the Ayurvedic way: 1️⃣ Rise Early with the Sun Ayurveda emphasizes waking up during Brahma Muhurta (approximately 45 minutes before sunrise). This quiet time is ideal for reflection, mindfulness, and daily planning. Early rising also helps regulate your circadian rhythm, reducing fatigue and promoting mental clarity. Stress Tip: Start your day with a few minutes of deep breathing (pranayama) or meditation to cultivate a calm, focused mind before diving into ...