Welcome to another section of DocScopy. MedBound Times was fortunate enough to have an interview with Dr. Jaya Lakshmi about her life and professional journey.
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi is an Ayurvedic doctor. She is currently working as a freelance Ayurvedic Creative content marketer. She has completed her Bachelor's degree in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery from Kerela University, India (2002-2008)
Let's dive into the journey of Dr. Jaya Lakshmi with MedBound Times.
1. Tell us something about your life and professional journey
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: I am a 39-year-old Indian Ayurvedic doctor. I am currently residing in Oman with my husband and three children.
My Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) followed by a Doctorate in Dravyagunavijananam (focused on Ayurvedic medicinal plants, pharmacology, food, and nutrition).
In addition to my core expertise, I hold certifications in women's and child's health, prenatal and postnatal yoga education, Indian psychology, and yoga.
I am currently specializing in Ayurvedic Academic consultation and digital content marketing.
I am a Solopreneur as well as I am doing some selective freelance projects in various international Ayurvedic sectors, including newsletters, illustrations, and designing Ayurvedic content. My major time is dedicated to my personal brand, Anna Nathasha's, where I aim to promote Ayurvedic principles through social media platforms such as YouTube, podcasts, and write-ups, as well as running an online shop featuring digital flashcards and posters.
2. Why did you choose this career path?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: It was a turning point in my life when I arrived in Oman in 2014, having secured a job at a renowned Ayurvedic Hospital. Unfortunately, due to personal reasons, I couldn't agree to their terms and conditions. So I made the decision to settle down and find a balance between my personal and professional life.
However, due to the career gap, I had, I faced challenges in qualifying for employment in this country. Determined to restart my career, I ventured into digital writing. During this time, I realized the crucial need to create awareness about Ayurvedic science in a simple and understandable manner for society.
As I developed deeper, I discovered that every word from the theoretical aspect of Ayurveda could be transformed into unique content, offering various insights for the benefit of today's world. Motivated by this realization, I began writing on different social media platforms, such as blogs and Facebook pages, with a mission to spread the message of "Ayurveda Pracharanam," inspiring society not only to embrace Ayurvedic theories but also to incorporate them into common-sense practices.
3. What are your passions in the field of your practice/career/path?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: I am a passionate and multi-talented individual, driven by my love for writing, painting, art, design, nature, storytelling, and photography. This passion eventually led me down the path of becoming an Ayurvedic content creator, transforming my knowledge from manuscripts into digital scripts.
Immersed in my work, I am constantly exploring and experimenting with new approaches. Today, I proudly hold the top position in SEO rankings by Google for Ayurvedic Content Marketing, both in written articles and video searches. I have also established a unique YouTube channel solely dedicated to creatively promoting Ayurvedic Content Marketing.
4. What are the most common or challenging situations in the field of your practice?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Achieving work-life balance is a paramount challenge in my career, particularly as a dedicated doctor and a mother of three children spanning from 2 to 11 years of age. Balancing the demands of a full-time profession while fulfilling my responsibilities as a mother requires careful navigation and effective time management.
5. Tell us some interesting clinical or career-related cases/situations/events that have left an impression on you. Or, some unforgettable cases/events/incidents.
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: As a digital content marketer, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with diverse clients across different continents. One of the fascinating aspects of my work is adapting to the unique requirements of each client. For instance, during my time working with a yoga and lifestyle magazine in Germany, I was tasked with crafting content using simple and easily digestible words, while ensuring optimal SEO optimization in the German language.
Similarly, when working in Canada, I had to adapt my writing style to a flowing and engaging manner that resonated specifically with the North American audience. Transitioning to the United States, I encountered a different set of expectations, where maintaining a formal tone in the text was essential, albeit with an informal touch. This dynamic landscape constantly pushes me to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the digital world, as it is crucial for successful Ayurvedic digital content marketing on a global scale.
6. Any incidence(s) related to the patient, family, or society involvement that you distinctly remember.
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: The opening of my international freelance journey was an unexpected twist in my career. For seven years, I had been solely focused on content writing and blogging, feeling stuck with various career gaps. However, everything changed when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and I decided to embark on a journey of learning the German language out of sheer curiosity.
Little did I know that this decision would become a turning point in my professional life. One day, it was my girl's 1st birthday, Jan 13, 2022, on Linkedin I stumbled upon an interview with a German yoga and lifestyle magazine called Ganz Wunderbar. Although they were specifically seeking a yoga educator, I mustered up the courage to reach out to them and express my interest in writing for them in German.
To my surprise, the magazine's owner, Ms. Melani Wagner, agreed to give me a chance, despite my lack of qualifications as a yoga teacher.
This interview became a key moment, igniting a spark within me. After that, she asked me to write for her magazine an article about the Ayurvedic combination Triphala. Determined to meet their expectations, I immersed myself in extensive research and countless revisions to deliver quality content that aligned with their vision.
This opportunity opened doors to international clients, and for over a year, I have been exclusively working with clients from different continents. It is this experience that has fueled my mission to create a unique path for globally disseminating Ayurvedic wisdom through the expertise of qualified professionals who may find themselves feeling stuck or directionless in life. My aim is to inspire them to not only study Ayurvedic theories but also to write, recreate, and adapt this ancient wisdom for the modern world, especially during challenging times.
7. Any incidents that you feel could have been done in a better way (something that left you disappointed or less than satisfied)?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: No. It is important to acknowledge that our actions in the past have shaped our present, and by taking responsibility for our choices, we empower ourselves to create a better future. Every decision I made in the past was a reflection of the knowledge and experience I possessed at that time. I hold no regrets and would not alter a single moment, as I know I did my absolute best with the resources available to me.
8. What is the difference in practice/contours of medicine or your stream of medical sciences/healthcare that you see now and then?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: In today's world, the internet holds a significant influence over people's lives. As a result, there is a growing demand for over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and various forms of self-medication. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of proper medical consultation when it comes to any type of medication.
With increased awareness about diseases and the availability of different medicines, people are more cautious about potential side effects and the overall effectiveness of the treatments. The fast-paced nature of modern life, the desire for convenience, and concerns about expenses contribute to the inclination towards self-medication.
However, it is imperative to emphasize that seeking the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional is essential. Only a doctor can provide accurate diagnoses, recommend appropriate treatment plans, and consider individual health conditions and potential interactions with other medications. Relying solely on self-diagnosis or self-prescribed treatments can be risky and may lead to unforeseen complications.
By prioritizing proper consultation with a doctor, individuals can ensure their health and well-being are safeguarded. Accessing expert advice and personalized medical care is a vital step in making informed decisions about medications and optimizing overall health outcomes.
9. What is your take on the decision of imparting medical education in regional languages?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: ‘’Think globally and act locally ’
Embrace a global mindset while acting locally, nurturing roots to expand branches worldwide. Ayurveda, a treasure trove of wisdom, is our cultural asset to share globally. Dive deep into Ayurvedic theories and embrace regional languages. Infuse heritage with modernity, presenting Ayurveda in a resonating way. Unlock its potential for transformative impact globally.
Ayurveda is a profound science, steeped in the richness of Sanskrit poetry. To truly soar in spreading its wings, a deep understanding of Ayurvedic theories becomes essential. However, it is equally important to embrace the beauty of regional languages. By immersing ourselves in the language of our region, we can dive deeper into the knowledge, allowing us to recreate and adapt Ayurveda to the global stage.
Just as a tree draws sustenance from its roots, we too can draw strength from our cultural heritage, infusing it with a modern perspective. This fusion enables us to present Ayurveda in a way that resonates with people around the world. By honoring our roots while embracing a global outlook, we can unlock the immense potential of Ayurveda and share its transformative power with diverse communities worldwide.
10. What is your message or advice for budding doctors or allied professionals?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Embrace Ayurveda's endless possibilities through customization. Explore diverse fields and specializations, uncovering hidden passions. Raise awareness of authentic Ayurvedic knowledge. Take action, experiment fearlessly, and share insights through writing. Ignite transformation, leaving a meaningful impact. Choose this career to research, create content, and make a difference.
11. Why did you choose this career path/how come you are here?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Since childhood, my ambition was to become a doctor, but life's circumstances led me on a different path. Unable to directly consult patients, I delved into researching Ayurvedic theories through writing. Gradually, I realized this was my calling, shaping my career in content creation across digital platforms and freelancing. I found joy in sharing knowledge and making a meaningful impact.
12. What are your goals For the next 2-3 years?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Fueled by a lifelong passion, my mission is to become an extraordinary creator of authentic Ayurvedic knowledge, spreading its wisdom across the globe. Over the next three years, I am determined to delve deep into my specialized topics, crafting comprehensive Ayurvedic theories in the digital realm. Through my consultancy, "Ma-Cure Ayurvedic," my e-commerce site, engaging newsletters, and captivating YouTube channel, I am dedicated to producing a diverse range of content including insightful write-ups, captivating illustrations, captivating designs, and compelling video scripts. I invite all my friends and followers to join me on this transformative journey as we unlock the profound secrets of Ayurveda together.
13. What are your passions?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Unleashing the power of creativity, I wholeheartedly embrace Albert Einstein's wisdom that it is intelligence to have fun. Fueling my passion, I proudly present "Anna's Canvas Studio," a captivating YouTube channel where Ayurveda comes alive through the eyes of a creative mother. Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant colors and captivating frames as I weave educational, inspirational, and entertaining content, inviting you to embark on a unique journey of discovery. Together, let's explore the boundless possibilities of Ayurveda through the lens of creativity.
14. What do you like to do in your free time?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Embracing the whirlwind of my busy life as a solopreneur, I find solace and joy in the simple pleasures that await at my fingertips. Nature watching, photography, video editing, journaling, and reading are my cherished hobbies, offering moments of respite amidst the chaos. Daily reading strengthens my writing muscles, fueling my passion for storytelling. In this beautifully chaotic dance, I find balance and inspiration, carving out pockets of time to nurture my soul.
15. If you can tell us the best and the most memorable moments of your life?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: In the realm of my professional journey, a remarkable chapter unfolded as I embarked on my freelance Ayurvedic writing career. It all began with a published interview in Germany, where I received my first salary in Euros, a symbol of newfound possibilities. Simultaneously, in my personal life, the birth of my baby girl, a cherished surprise during the unprecedented times of the pandemic, presented a sudden twist and turned my life upside down. With no support system in place and the responsibility of two children, I courageously embraced this unexpected turn of events, paving the way for a miraculous and dream-like opening to my career. With unwavering determination, I embraced my role as a writer and mother, adopting the pen name Anna Natasha, a homage to my beloved daughter Nathasha Anna. This new chapter symbolizes the merging of my identities, as I navigate the intricate dance between motherhood and the art of storytelling.
16. If your life was a movie, what would you name it?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: A story of Adaptability.
17. What do you hate most?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: Disrespect.
18. What triggers you?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: With an unwavering commitment to discipline, I find it difficult to tolerate disorder. As a work-from-home mompreneur, chaotic situations ignite a fierce determination within me. I see myself as a Wayfinder, continuously seeking knowledge and growth in both life and my chosen profession. I refuse to remain stagnant, even in the face of uncertainty. The mere thought of being hindered is akin to a recurring nightmare, driving me to overcome any obstacle that comes my way.
19. What would you be doing if you were (not the current profession/occupation)?
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: From a childhood dream of becoming a doctor, life took a surprising twist, leading me to embark on a path as an Ayurvedic Creator specializing in digital content marketing. Creativity flows through my veins, fueling my passion for any creative endeavor that allows me to connect with others on a deep level.
20. Finally, a message for society.
Dr. Jaya Lakshmi: As a devoted follower of Robin Sharma, I wholeheartedly embrace his wisdom: "Opportunity lies within every situation, urging us to acquire new skills and overcome our fears. Progression holds greater significance than perfection."
