Sweta Vikram is a mindset & wellness coach, speaker, and best-selling author of 12 book in which she largely targets the struggles of women over various settings. Her work towards mental and physical health is phenomenal. Her books throws light on several aspects of a women's lift or the modern day lifestyle especially in countries that are not fully developed and provides perspective regarding the same. You can find her latest book Louisiana Catch on her website and other online platforms. Books R&B had the wonderful opportunity to interview Sweta Vikram about health and wellness and here is what she has to say!
The Interview
When was your first introduction to the world of wellness and health?
I grew up in a home where there was a lot of emphasis on playing outside and swimming a few times a week, eating every meal in moderation on time, and getting into bed before 7:30pm. There were no TV dinners. It was all about freshly cooked, delicious, homecooked meals six days of the week. I spent my formative years in a boarding school and then continued to live away from home while in college and during masters and so forth. Even in school, playing sports and exercising was non-negotiable. Habits instilled in our childhood become a part of our personality when we grow up. I become aware at a young age that exercise, sleep, and food had a direct impact on how I felt throughout the day.
What events in your life made you choose this profession?
My first post-graduate degree was in Sports Nutrition and my first job was with Kellogg’s. Somehow, the universe conspired and got me a taste of wellness and nutrition at a time when not many were aware/talking about it. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Why do you think some may feel intimidated by yoga and how can they overcome this?
Many people have this notion that yoga is about contorting your body and turning it upside down and wearing stylish yoga wear. Well, you can’t blame them. With social media and globalization, those are the kind of images mostly shared and that’s what we are made to believe.
Communication is key. No one can understand your specific requirements unless you convey them. It’s important to find the right match—in terms of yoga teachers and beliefs. Look at beginner’s classes. Ask questions about the physical practice that a studio/teacher offers. Share your journey. Speak up about your injuries /ailments (if any). Express your reason to practice yoga and expectations of it.
Most people tend to ignore their health, what are some of the simplest practices people can inculcate in their day-to-day life?
First thing that people need to do is change their mindset. Wellness has to be your lifestyle. It’s not something you do once in a while. For instance, you can’t eat pakodas or pizza six days in a row, fast on the 7th day, and expect to enjoy optimum health. This is what I always remind my clients: your body is the only place to live. It’s a place of worship. Honor it. Treasure it. Keep it simple and small. But be consistent. Start with going for a walk, every day for 20 minutes. Eat on time and sleep on time. Honor the circadian rhythm.
What are your top lifestyle and diet tips for someone who is struggling with any form of condition?
My tips and suggestions are always customized depending on an individual’s needs and health conditions. But I will say that making healthier food choices and moving the body are generally top of my suggestions.
Agreed. What excites you the most about your work?
That I get to make a positive impact in people’s lives.
How do you think your book would impact people and their lives?
It empowers people. It reminds them to stop relying on others to build them up. Instead of seeking outside validation and approval, “Louisiana Catch” teaches readers to focus on staying authentic and building their own path. It might feel lonely at first, but you will find your tribe.
Rightly said! Can we expect more books from you focusing on health and wellness?
While “Louisiana Catch” covers aspects of health and wellness, it is primarily focused on women’s empowerment and safety. But to answer your question…yes, I recently signed two contracts for books focused on health and wellness and mindfulness and mindset coaching. Stay tuned for details!
That is amazing! How has your choices with respect to fitness affected your personal life?
My relationships with wellness and health is deep and has evolved over the years. It’s made me diligent, resilient, authentic, strong, and self-disciplined. It has drastically improved the quality of my life and conversations. It’s taught me to build healthier boundaries and say a NO when required. Most importantly, it’s taught me to treat my body and life with respect and compassion.
About the author:
Sweta Srivastava Vikram (www.swetavikram.com), featured by Asian Fusion as “one of the most influential Asians of our time,” is a mindset & wellness coach, global speaker, and best-selling author of 12 books whose work has appeared in The New York Times, amongst other publications, across nine countries on three continents. She helps executives and entrepreneurs make critical mindset shifts so they can use time more effectively, improve relationships, and lower stress levels. Winner of the “Voices of the Year Award,”
Past recipients have been Chelsea Clinton and founders of the #MeToo movement), in her spare time, Sweta teaches mindfulness and yoga to empower female survivors of trauma. A graduate of Columbia University, she lives in New York City with her husband and works with clients globally. Find her on: Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.