BC South Asian Health Magazine featuring Neelam Toprani from Sewanti Ayurvedic

Harleen Kalra is a dedicated physiotherapist and co-founder of Physiatrix Rehabilitation, a multidisciplinary clinic located in Delta and Surrey. At Physiatrix, she and her team emphasize holistic patient care, addressing the comprehensive needs of their clientele. Harleen's educational journey began at the University of British Columbia, where she earned a Bachelor's of Science.

Subsequently, she secured her Doctorate of Physiotherapy from Melbourne University in 2017 and transitioned into private practice. Since then, she has expanded her expertise, particularly in vestibular and pelvic floor physiotherapy.

Beyond her clinical work, Harleen's entrepreneurial spirit is evident. An active member of the Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia and a staunch wellness advocate, she consistently champions the value of her profession and its holistic approach to patient care. While committed to her professional endeavors, Harleen skillfully balances work with the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Under Harleen's leadership, Physiatrix Rehabilitation focuses on the individual needs of each patient, offering tailored and thorough care. As she looks ahead, Harleen aspires for the clinic to grow both in its capacity and the breadth of services offered. She's deeply committed to boosting health literacy, especially in the South Asian community, positioning Physiatrix as a beacon for education and the myriad benefits of physiotherapy.

is a physiotherapist and

Rehabilitation, a multidisciplinary rehab clinic, located in the heart of Delta and Surrey. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree from Simon Fraser University, Gurman then proceeded to obtain her Doctorate in Physiotherapy from the University of Melbourne, Australia. She graduated with her Doctorate in 2015 and started her career in private practice

in 2016. She decided to work in several different private practice locations to try and gain as much knowledge from her co-workers and communities, in efforts to better serve people in need of physiotherapy care. During that time, she took several courses, such as dry needling, pelvic floor, and attended in-clinic seminars, such as shoulder rehab and scoliosis.

She got married in 2019 and a year later, she embarked upon opening her own clinic with her co-founder Harleen Kalra. Unfortunately, well into the process, the COVID 2020 Pandemic hit, and they were very quickly faced with the difficult task of learning how to navigate through the business world during those tough times. Since then, Gurman has managed to build successful relationships with her local community and run a successful multi-disciplinary clinic. She now takes pride in knowing that they have created a successful and hardworking team at Physiatrix Rehab who all work together in providing the best care to those in need.

PUBLISHERS NOTE

Dear Readers,

Welcome to another issue of the BC South Asian Health Magazine. We are excited to share a wide variety of inspirational stories from the South Asian community. As our brand continues to grow across Canada, we are strengthening our network and connecting with more successful South Asians in health, wellness, beauty and fitness. This means, we have even more inspirational content coming your way!

Our feature cover story for this issue is on Neelam Toprani, Founder & CEO of Sewanti Ayurvedic Series. Neelam created this brand to share her healing journey and to promote, educate and facilitate Ayurveda for the world. The practical wisdom of the ancient healing tradition, including Yoga, Ayurveda and Qi Gong helped Neelam improve her own health and inspired her to take the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda and translate it into practical solutions to improve the quality of life of Canadians. She has created an extensive line of products through Sewanti that represent natural, organic, holistic health and wellness. Check out her story inside!

We have a special feature on Kamal Sekhon-Dhillon, Owner of Kamal’s Day Spa. She is the epitome of a strong, successful South Asian business woman who went through the stereotypical trials and tribulations of living in a traditional culture while becoming an entrepreneur. Her spa has been a staple in the community for many years and her expertise in skincare comes from decades of providing high quality service to her clients.

Another inspirational feature we are sharing in this issue is the one and only “The Golf Singh” – Sukhbir Jawandha. His story is one of passion and perseverance. Ever since he was younger, Sukh wanted to be a professional golf player but due to an injury, he eventually transitioned to becoming a golf coach instead. Sukh takes great pride in teaching others and sharing his passion for golf. He regularly travels back and forth between BC and Ontario providing golf classes for all age groups. In his article, he also shares multiple health benefits and reasons why he encourages everyone to consider trying out golf.

Hope our audience enjoys the many inspirational stories we are sharing within the South Asian community across Canada - there are many more coming your way in future magazine issues! We also have a few exciting initiatives coming up within the next few months and will be making big announcements as well. Stay tuned.

CHEERS TO GOOD HEALTH!

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Can you share your journey and experience in the field of natural products and wellness that led you to establish Sewanti Ayurvedic Series?

Our brand journey is a testament to the transformative power of Ayurveda and the deep-rooted passion that drives us to share its wisdom with the world.

Sewanti is the fulfillment of my desire to share what I have learned on my healing journey. Our focus is to promote, educate, and facilitate Ayurveda.Product sales are complement to our focus. Our vision is to integrate Ayurveda, Yoga, and meditation into the lifestyle of humankind.

What inspired the creation of Sewanti Ayurvedic Series and what values or principles guide the company?

The practical wisdom of the ancient healing tradition, including Yoga, Ayurveda and Qi Gong helped me improve my own health and inspired me to take the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda and translate it into practical solutions to improve the quality of life of Canadians.

Sewanti, derived from the word “sewa,” meaning service, encapsulates our unwavering commitment to serving humanity through Ayurveda. We pride ourselves on designing the world’s cleanest and highest quality Ayurvedic remedies and massage oils. From the very beginning, we have upheld the values of authenticity, purity, and integrity, ensuring that our products align with the ancient principles of Ayurveda.

How do you ensure the authenticity and quality of the natural products offered by Sewanti Ayurvedic Series? Tell us about your product line.

We currently have 12 products in classical and organic remedies in capsules format, 34 organic remedies in powders (churna) format , 16 classical Ayurvedic massage oils (tailam) and 9 products for Ayurvedic lifestyle.

We pride ourselves on

All products are free from additives, binders, preservatives, or excipients and registered with Natural Health Product number with Health Canada. They are produced in a GMP facility in Burnaby, B.C., and tested by third-party labs for purity, potency, and quality with Certificates of Analysis at raw material as well as finished product stage.

The company’s flagship product Triphala Plus is an effective remedy to correct constipation, support

Holy Basil plus is a respiratory health formula that provides immunity, stamina, and boosts energy, and relieves sinus congestions and seasonal allergies.

Joint Flex is a traditional remedy to treat the root cause of all inflammatory joint diseases. It relieves joint pain, swelling, and prevents cartilage degeneration.

There are numerous testimonials from medical doctors and other health practitioners in the US and Canada on the effectiveness of products.

What challenges have you faced in promoting and establishing a brand focused on natural and organic products in the market?

Being a pioneering company that introduced Ayurvedic products to natural health food retailers, the journey has consistently posed challenges. The limited acceptance of Ayurveda, largely attributed to concerns about heavy metals in Ayurvedic medicine, was one hurdle. Additionally, a lack of general knowledge about Ayurveda among the public presented another obstacle. Despite these challenges, I remained

undeterred in my commitment to promoting Ayurveda. I took proactive measures to address these issues by engaging in grassroots education efforts. This included conducting Ayurveda training in communities and organizing public store events to impart the wisdom of Ayurveda through cooking demonstrations and offering free mini consultations.

My dedication extended beyond local boundaries, as I ventured from Vancouver Island in the West to major cities in Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec in the East, spreading awareness and knowledge of Ayurveda. Crossing international borders, I also visited stores and communities in Washington and Oregon states in the USA. Through these endeavors, I aimed to overcome misconceptions and foster a deeper understanding of Ayurveda, paving the way for its acceptance and integration into the broader health and wellness landscape.

Can you highlight some of the key ingredients or formulations that set Sewanti Ayurvedic

Series apart in the natural wellness industry?

The products under the Sewanti Classical series are science and research based traditional Ayurveda botanicals made with wild crafted herbs. Authenticity, purity, and potency are the guiding principles for all our formulations. The vege capsules are free from soy, gluten or allergens and suitable for vegans. They are high potency water extracts made without the use of chemical solvents. They are based on the imbalances and disorders and do not require the knowledge of Ayurveda.

We feel responsible to promote evidence-based traditional Ayurveda products for modern health challenges. We invested in hospital-led, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trials to quantify the impact of our classical remedies -Diarid, Joint Flex and Stressnil products.

Sewanti Organic Series are popular Ayurveda herbs in the combination of extract and full spectrum whole plant powder. The potent herbal extract contains bioactive phytochemicals to support faster assimilation of the therapeutic qualities of the herbs. The whole herb provides synergy and the ratio is determined by the traditional Ayurvedic knowledge.

Sewanti Organic Series are popular Ayurveda herbs in the combination of extract and full spectrum whole plant powder

Notable poly-herbal formulations are Curcumin Classic made with organic curcumin extract -95% Curcuminoids fortified by classical Ayurvedic formula Trikatu (black pepper, long pepper and ginger).

Sewanti is a pioneer company to bring a wide range of organic Ayurveda single herbs and traditional formulations in powders, which are approved by NNHPD with NPN#. Notable examples are Hingwastak, Dashamula, Sitopaladi and Trikatu.

How does Sewanti Ayurvedic Series contribute to sustainable and eco-friendly practices in its product development and manufacturing processes?

Sewanti has established a vertically integrated and holistic process to ensure traceability from farm to the finished supplements to achieve pure, clean and safe products. Our partner farms are all Certified Organic and non-GMO. Our ingredients are ethically sourced with smallest impact on the environment. Our bottles and caps are made from recyclable plastic and orders are shipped in recycled cardboard boxes.

In the ever-evolving wellness industry, how does your company stay innovative and adapt to changing consumer preferences?

We are passionate about promoting Ayurveda in the world. We believe everyone deserves to benefit from what Ayurveda has to offer to humanity. That’s why we are committed to providing customers with honest, convenient, and affordable Ayurvedic supplements backed by cutting edge science and research. We are easily accessible on all digital touch points like social media and have an e-commerce site.

What

avenues you adopt to promote Ayurveda in the community?

I am the founding director on the Board of the Ayurveda Association of Canada and held the position of secretary to the executive council of AAPNA (Association of Ayurveda Professionals of North America).

I have been appointed Peaceful Ambassador for Western Canada by Heartfulness Institute, a notfor- profit organization that teaches heartfulness meditation programs free of charge in Canada for last 49 years.

I was appointed Research Associate of the World Institute for Scientific Exploration (WISE) Harvard Branch in April 2014 and have been actively involved in reviewing several papers including “Contemporary challenges in Ayurveda: An ancient medical technology” by Suresh Kumar, Neelam Toprani and Shanmugamurthy Lakshmanan.

The global market for Ayurveda products is growing with the increasing demand for natural, organic and holistic health and wellness products for the treatment of chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and hypertension. This growth is expected at compound annual growth of more than 16% between 2021-2025 reaching a market size of over USD 14 billion by 2025.

The pandemic has also highlighted the limitations of conventional medicine and sparked renewed interest in traditional healing practices like Ayurveda in boosting the immune system and protecting against infection.

Sewanti products are sold in Canada coast to coast into major health food stores and natural pharmacies like Whole Foods, Country Grocers, The Big Carrot, Les Marches Tau, Rachelle Berry, Maison Jacynthe etc. We have preferred vendor status with Amazon in Canada and European Union countries with their Vendor Central program.

In the USA Sewanti products are sold to naturopathic and Integrative medicine clinics and Amazon.com

Sewanti products are also sold in the European market through distributors in Poland and Czech Republic. Our company, Padmashri Naturals inc. is a prominent Life Sciences company with Agriculture Canada and BC trade & invest and is invited as a trade delegate to various international conferences.

We have promising traditional formulations undergoing NNHPD licensing and our scientific and research team continues to develop more remedies to meet the growing customer demand.

NEELAM  TOPRANI President & CEO Padmashri

Naturals Inc.

Jas Hundal is a Registered Social Worker and the owner of Jasbir Hundal Counselling Services Ltd (JHCS). She has her Masters of Social Work from the University of Victoria and a Certificate in Advanced Facilitation & Consultation from the Justice Institute of BC. In her career she has worked predominantly with South Asian men and woman, and provided essential services in the Punjabi language. Jas is also the president of the Fraser River Branch of the BC Association of Social Workers.

JHCS is a rapidly expanding clinical practice with a number of independent clinicians who utilize a strength-based and anti-oppressive lens. Jas also provides clinical supervision to students from Yorkville University and Sprott Shaw College who in turn provide free counselling to clients. She is trained in a range of treatment modalities (EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness) and has worked diligently in the field of mental health and addictions since 2006. Jas is also a certified Life Coach offering a variety of services.

“My vision is to guide clients, so they are empowered to make positive decisions in their life. I am committed to fostering a safe, confidential, and trusting therapeutic alliance with clients so they can start on their journey of healing. I strive to honor each client’s story and experience by providing counselling that is specific to individual needs”.

Jas Hundal, BSW, MSW

“[As a coach], I’m able to share my own experiences, and what I’ve learned and pass it on. I love the idea of being able to teach and plant seeds in kids’ minds and positively influence how they think or react to certain things and situations.”

SUKHBIR

Sukhbir Jawandha’s interest in golf started at the age of two when his father began teaching him how to swing in their backyard. His passion for the sport grew even more between the ages of five and ten when the father-son duo would go to the driving range to play at least once or twice a month.

Eventually, Jawandha’s father, who played field hockey back in India, got him enrolled in this sport and consequently, golf temporarily took a back seat for the next five years. While listening to Jawandha’s story, it becomes evident that as a young boy, his interests mirrored those of his father. When asked to reflect on this assertion, Jawandha explains that his father discovered golf while he was playing field hockey back in India.

Sukhbir

Jawandha’s

interest in

golf

started at the age of two when his father began teaching him how to swing in their backyard

“The only people that played golf in India during that time were army people and their golf course used to be right beside the field where my father and his teammates played field hockey and sometimes [the golfers] would hit like an errand shot and it would come into the field and [my dad and his teammates] would get upset because it would slow their field hockey game down.

GOLF SINGH

SUKHBIR JAWANDHA

Later, when he was gone on a vacation, he and his friend encountered a golf course and eventually, my dad really started enjoying the game,” explains Jawandha.

At age 15, Jawandha, who has always been an athletic individual, got back into golf – and since then – there’s been no looking back for the 29-yearold BC native. At 16, Jawandha joined a performance golf academy where he enrolled in a full season training program and fell in love with practicing to improve his game. In the following 1.5 years, Jawandha lowered his handicap by 28 strokesfrom breaking 100 for the first time ever to shooting even par 15 months later.

“I would wait for my mom to come home from work so she could drop me off at the golf course so I could practice for 2-4 hours after school every day. In the summertime, I would practice 8-12 hours a day,” explains Jawandha, who injured his back as a junior golfer.

Although the work ethic helped him achieve great success in a short period of time, the pain forced him to take a year off.

While he obtained treatments from various physical therapists and chiropractors, it was to no avail as his back problems persisted. Eventually, Jawandha realized that his back was hurting due to an incorrect manner in which he was swinging his golf club.

After consulting and learning about a few different ways to swing correctly from a close friend, Jawandha and this friend took a threemonth trip down to California and learned a slew of golf tips and tricks from some seasoned coaches. It was this trip and the knowledge that he obtained during it that inspired him to become a golf coach.

At age 15, Jawandha, who has always been an athletic individual, got back into golf – and since then – there’s been no looking back for the 29-year-old BC native

“About four to five years ago, when I wanted to start to coach, I didn’t see many people from the South Asian community playing golf. Then, just before COVID, I started to notice that a lot more people from our community were getting into it. And then as soon as COVID hit, a lot of people had nothing else to do, so they all tried golf and now so many people play it,” explains Jawandha.

Despite their interest in the game, many South Asian individuals needed and wanted golf lessons as well as guidance but were unsure of where to turn.

This changed “as soon as they saw [Jawandha] because they were more inclined to come and learn as much as they could” from someone they could relate to.

Asked to explain what he enjoys about being a coach, Jawandha says that he likes watching people learn and improve. As someone who knows “what it feels like to hit a great golf shot”, Jawandha, who currently resides in Ontario, adds that he wants others to experience similar feelings. “There are also a lot of health benefits linked to golf. For example, you’re outdoors and in nature and you tend to do a lot of walking. It’s also great for any type of relationship-building, whether that is between parents and kids or spouses,” says Jawandha.

He adds that unlike many other sports, golf is an individual sport in which one aims to hit great shots with precision. Besides this, it enables individuals to develop skills based around hard work and patience. Interestingly, Jawandha likens golf to real life because “if you hit one bad shot and get upset over it actually impacts the rest of your shots.” He adds, “if you get emotionally unstable after one or two bad shots, it’s like a domino effect where it messes up your next shot, so it’s kind of like your day. If you start off your day with one or two things that upset you, the rest of your day is most likely ruined. So, [golf] really has a lot of parallels with life and how you deal with problems.”

Talking about the changes that the sport has gone through, Jawandha explains that unlike before, golf is becoming more accessible and diversified than earlier when it was considered to be “a rich man’s game.”

Indeed, unlike before, when private golf clubs ruled the roost, there are now plenty of familyowned courses where individuals are not expected to adhere to a particular dress code. Jawandha credits Tiger Woods as someone who was able to shine a light on the sport and likewise influence a lot of the positive changes that we are seeing today.

“Tiger Woods came on to the golfing scene in 1997 and played in the PGA Tour and he just won every tournament he played, and people were shocked.”

In the same year, a new project called the First Tee Program took birth. With an aim to make golf more accessible to more people, including marginalized communities, former PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Fenchon inaugurated the program with the support of various golf organizations.

According to Jawandha, after Tiger Woods came in and ruled the game, there was a realization that expanding the reach of golf as a sport could not only help give opportunities to a variety of individuals, but it could also help in finding more great talents. Despite its increased popularity, Jawandha admits that the sport can still be misunderstood, labelled and stereotyped.

“I

When it comes to golf, it seems like a lot of people mistakenly assume that it is not an action-oriented sport, unlike soccer and basketball, which are the typical sports that people want their kids to play. Golf might be different, but it does require movement and athleticism as well

think golf can easily be overlooked or labelled as an old person’s game or a slower game. I’ve interacted with athletes in our community who are like ‘hey man, I’ve been great at all these other sports and I was always a star player, but now I’m trying to play [golf] and I’m frustrated because I can’t figure it out’ so it’s important to remember that playing golf is not as easy as it looks,” explains Jawandha.

Asked about what excites him currently, Jawandha explains that he is “getting a lot more into performance coaching for juniors” as he aims to help and coach kids from the South Asian community to be able to play golf at a high level.

Expanding on the benefits of golf for kids, Jawandha explains that kids learn skills like patience, strength and discipline while also using their mental skills to figure out how to hit the golf ball in the best way possible.

“When it comes to golf, it seems like a lot of people mistakenly assume that it is not an actionoriented sport, unlike soccer and basketball, which are the typical sports that people want their kids to play. Golf might be different, but it does require movement and athleticism as well.”

Elaborating on this idea, Jawandha says, “Basically whenever someone wants to hit a golf ball, they want to hit it far and to be able to do that, you have to use the rotational speed of your body.”

In other words, an individual has to be able to properly engage their shoulders, legs, and core in order to make a respectable shot.

Talking about his current clientele, Jawandha says that he works with a lot of beginner adults and also high-performance kids between the ages of 7-18. According to Jawandha, the kids in the group are those that want to go on and compete in tournaments. Working with these kids within the capacity of a sport like golf is beneficial to both Jawandha and his students as he is able to connect and communicate with them on an individual basis. While he is able to ask them questions about their everyday life and school, he is also able to teach them how certain ways of thinking or particular emotions can have an effect not only on their game, but on their school life as well.

“I love the idea of being able to teach and plant seeds in kids’ minds and positively influence how they think or react to certain things and situations.”

“[As a coach], I’m able to share my own experiences, and what I’ve learned and pass it on.”

Evidently, this is one of the many rewarding parts of Jawandha’s job.

“The goal is to have these kids get better and compete, but I think if you can also become a better person through playing the game, that’s even better. It’s even more fulfilling for me, regardless of the outcome of their competitions.

thegolfsingh @brownboysgolf.co

Youtube: Golf Made Easy

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REFRESHMENT-AWAITS

Farming Karma is a family-owned and operated business. The name originally came from farmer, Karma Gill. Karma, along with his wife, Kuku, have been apple orchardists in the BC Interior for over 30 years. Their passion for agriculture has enabled them to produce some of the highest quality fruit in the Okanagan Valley.

Despite three decades spent as successful tree-fruit farmers, Karma and Kuku wanted to do more—they wanted to give back to the community and contribute to the agricultural industry in a different way. With a hope of sparking the interest of the next generation of agricultural pioneers, they began the creation of healthy, value-added fruit products.

Karma and Kuku employed the help of their children, Avi, Binny, and Sumeet to create an agri-tourism facility on their Orchard in Kelowna, BC. The facility serves as a hub for their production facility, where Farming Karma Sodas are created, and includes an RV park, cherry orchard, tasting room, media building, and more.

The family-run business has grown from strength to strength attracting visitors from all over Canada. Their ‘Do Good’ initiative expands on the original hopes Karma and Kuku had for Farming Karma—giving back to the community and making a significant impact for the future.

Avi Gill & Binny Boparai-Gill with their little one

Can you tell us about both of your backgrounds in physical therapy and rehabilitation?

H: I did my Bachelor’s in Science from UBC and then moved to Melbourne to complete my Doctor of Physiotherapy from Melbourne University. I am an orthopaedic physiotherapist with certifications in vestibular and pelvic floor physiotherapy. In my time as a physiotherapist, I have worked with a diverse population of patients that include individuals from various age groups and health backgrounds, ranging from athletes recovering from injuries to elderly patients managing chronic conditions. I did a Bachelor’s in Health Science from Simon Fraser University and

then also obtained my Doctor of Physiotherapy from Melbourne University in 2015. Since then, I’ve worked in various clinical settings to better develop my physiotherapy skills before going on to open Physiatrix in 2020. I am licensed in Functional Dry Needling, and Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain.

What motivated

you

to pursue a career in physical therapy and open a rehabilitation clinic like Physiatrix?

Our journey towards a career in physical therapy and opening Physiatrix was driven by a commitment to patient-centered care. After working in private practice for several years, we observed a trend in the industry where the quality of care often came second to volume. We witnessed clinics operating more like factories, focusing on the number of patients seen rather than the quality of care delivered. This model not only undermined the therapeutic process but also the value of patient care. We both felt like it was time to change this space and to pivot the status quo towards a more empathetic and effective approach. Our vision was to create a clinic where the quality of interactions and treatments took precedence over the quantity. At Physiatrix, our goal is to ensure that each patient receives the individualized attention they need and deserve. We purposefully schedule fewer patients per hour to allow for thorough, one-on-one care, ensuring that each session is productive and personalized. Opening Physiatrix was about fostering an environment where therapists can give their best to patients, and patients can receive the best possible outcomes.

How do you stay updated with the latest developments and techniques in physical therapy and rehabilitation?

To maintain our expertise in the field, we stay informed about the latest developments and techniques in physical therapy by engaging in ongoing professional development. We regularly attend industry workshops and conferences, which provide us with insights into state-of-the-art practices and allow us to exchange knowledge with peers. We also subscribe to leading industry journals and participate in online forums dedicated to physical therapy research and innovation. As members of professional associations, we are committed to continuing education through courses and webinars, which are instrumental in enhancing our clinical skills and ensuring that our treatments are evidence-based. We promote a learning culture within our clinic by encouraging each other and our staff to seek out and share new information that can benefit our practice and our patients at Physiatrix.

We regularly attend industry workshops and conferences, which provide us with insights into state-of-the-art practices and allow us to exchange knowledge with peers.

Can you describe your approach to developing personalized treatment plans for patients with varying conditions?

At Physiatrix, our approach to developing personalized treatment plans begins with a comprehensive initial assessment. Our initial sessions are deliberately extended to allow for a detailed evaluation of each patient's condition. This thorough examination enables our therapists to deliver an accurate diagnosis and craft a tailored treatment plan. We place significant emphasis on understanding our patients' individual goals, which are as diverse as returning to sports or dancing at a family wedding. These personal objectives guide the customization of each treatment plan, ensuring that our interventions are targeted and relevant to the patient's lifestyle and aspirations. Active listening is a fundamental aspect of our patient interactions. By truly hearing our patients' concerns and aspirations, we can better address their needs and integrate their feedback into their treatment journey. As a multidisciplinary clinic, we collaborate across different specialties to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive approach, particularly for our patients with complex needs. This teamwork is crucial in providing holistic care that addresses all facets of a patient's health and well-being.

How do you handle challenging or uncooperative patients while maintaining a high level of care and professionalism?

In handling challenging or uncooperative patients, our team focuses on understanding the root causes of their behavior. We prioritize active listening and empathy, allowing us to address any underlying issues, such as fear or misunderstanding. For example, we once encountered a patient resistant to their treatment plan. Through open communication, we discovered their resistance was due to apprehension about the treatment. By providing clear explanations and reassurances, we successfully gained their trust and cooperation.

Our collective goal is always to maintain the highest level of care and professionalism, balancing patient needs with effective situation management

Our approach also includes clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and involving patients in their treatment plans. This not only empowers them but also encourages a more cooperative atmosphere. In situations where a patient remains uncooperative, we adhere to professional protocols, ensuring patient safety and well-being, and collaborate with colleagues for new perspectives and solutions. Our collective goal is always to maintain the highest level of care and professionalism, balancing patient needs with effective situation management.

What strategies do you use to effectively communicate with South Asian patients and their families?

Language can go a long way when trying to effectively communicate with South Asian patients. We have a team of therapists who speak Punjabi and Hindi, which makes communication with this group much easier. Simultaneously, belonging to that culture ourselves and understanding the cultural norms, it is much easier for us to navigate through this community and provide effective care. This does not only pertain to the South Asian community in fact. Our clinic is situated in a culturally diverse location, and as therapists, we need to be aware of all cultural sensitivities and not let those get in the way of our scope of practice.

Do you have experience with specific rehabilitation equipment or technology that is commonly used in your clinic?

At Physiatrix, we are proud to offer state-of-the-art rehabilitation technology, catering to a broad spectrum of conditions. Among our specialized equipment, Shockwave Therapy stands out, which is a unique offering not commonly available in other clinics. This technology, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy, is highly effective in treating chronic conditions such as Tennis Elbow, Golfer's Elbow, Plantar Fasciitis, and Calcifications.

It stimulates circulation in injured tissues, breaks down calcified deposits, promotes regeneration of bone and connective tissues, and alleviates pain by desensitizing nerve endings in the affected area. In addition to Shockwave Therapy, we also utilize Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in our treatments.

LLLT is a non-invasive procedure that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue, accelerating the healing process. It's particularly beneficial for reducing inflammation, pain relief, and enhancing tissue repair and regeneration. This therapy is a valuable tool for a variety of conditions, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, and arthritis. Both these therapies have shown excellent results in our patients, and we recommend them for those suffering from chronic pain or recovering from injuries. We invite individuals to experience the benefits of these advanced treatments at our clinic.

How do you assess patient progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly?

To assess patient progress, we utilize both objective measurements and direct feedback from the patient. Objective measures, such as improvements in range of motion, strength, and endurance, are quantifiable indicators of progress. We also closely monitor changes in pain levels and functional abilities, which are often reported by the patients themselves. Setting clear, achievable goals with patients at the outset is crucial for tracking progress. These goals are established based on a thorough initial assessment and are tailored to each patient's unique situation. Regular reassessments are scheduled to ensure that we are on track to meet these goals. Patient feedback is invaluable; it informs us about the efficacy of our treatment interventions. When a patient reports that certain aspects of the treatment are not working or if our objective measures plateau or decline, we are ready to adapt our approach. This may involve modifying the current treatment plan or exploring alternative therapies. Ultimately, continuous monitoring and a willingness to adjust treatment plans are key to ensuring that we provide the most effective care for our patients.

How do you ensure patient safety and compliance with treatment plans?

To ensure patient safety and compliance with treatment plans at our clinic we adopt a comprehensive approach. Safety is our foremost priority, beginning with a detailed assessment of each patient's medical history to ensure the suitability and safety of our treatments. We also maintain the highest standards in clinic safety and equipment maintenance. In terms of treatment compliance, we focus on clear, patient-friendly communication and education. By thoroughly explaining treatment goals and processes, we foster trust and understanding. We also actively involve patients in their treatment plans, engaging them in goal-setting and decision-making, which increases their commitment to the treatment. Regular follow-ups are essential for monitoring progress and adapting plans as necessary. Additionally, we encourage a supportive environment, including family involvement and external support resources, to enhance treatment adherence. Together, these strategies enable us to create a safe and motivating environment, ensuring optimal patient outcomes

Have you worked with patients of different age groups, from children to the elderly?

If so, how do you adapt your approach to their needs? Yes, in our practice, we have the privilege of working with patients across various age groups, from children to the elderly. A key aspect of our approach is recognizing and adapting to the unique functional goals of each age group.

For children, especially those involved in sports or physical activities, the primary goal often revolves around returning to their sport or play activities. Our treatment focuses on safely restoring their strength and mobility while ensuring a fun and engaging experience. We use age-appropriate exercises and involve parents or guardians in their rehabilitation journey, ensuring a holistic approach to their recovery. Adult patients usually have diverse goals, ranging from returning to work or sports to managing chronic conditions. Our approach with adults is collaborative and goal-oriented, involving them in setting realistic and meaningful objectives. We customize treatment plans to align with their specific lifestyle needs and aspirations, whether it's resuming professional activities, hobbies, or maintaining an active lifestyle. For elderly patients, the focus often shifts to maintaining or improving their ability to perform daily tasks and ensuring their independence. Our treatment plans for seniors are tailored to enhance their quality of life, focusing on improving balance, strength, and mobility to facilitate every day activities like walking, climbing stairs, and self-care tasks. Understanding and aligning with our patients' diverse functional goals – whether it's a child wanting to return to sports, an adult aiming to resume work or hobbies, or an elderly patient focusing on daily tasks – is a cornerstone of our practice. We adapt our therapeutic interventions and communication style to meet these varied objectives, ensuring personalized and effective care for each patient.

How do you handle stress and the demands of a fast-paced clinic environment?

At work, our exceptional administrative staff plays a crucial role in managing scheduling, billing, and the overall smooth operation of the clinic, which significantly reduces stress for our clinical team. This allows us to focus more on patient care and less on administrative tasks. Furthermore, we prioritize a supportive work environment where open communication and teamwork are encouraged. This not only helps in managing the day-to-day demands of a fast-paced clinic but also fosters a positive and collaborative atmosphere. Regular team meetings and feedback sessions ensure that any work-related stressors are addressed promptly and effectively. In summary, a combination of efficient administrative support, personal relaxation strategies, and a strong team culture enables us to effectively handle the stress and demands of our busy clinic environment.

What are your future plans with Physiatrix Rehab Clinic?

As we look towards the future of Physiatrix Rehab Clinic, our primary focus will continue to be on delivering exceptional patient care. We are constantly exploring ways to enhance our treatment approaches and patient experience. Alongside this commitment to quality care, we are also considering the possibility of expanding our reach. Exploring the option of opening another clinic location is on our radar, as it would allow us to serve a wider community and make our services more accessible to those in need. While these plans are still in the preliminary stages, our goal is to fast-paced clinic but also fosters a positive and collaborative atmosphere. Regular team meetings and feedback sessions ensure that any work-related stressors are addressed promptly and effectively. In summary, a combination of efficient administrative support, personal relaxation strategies, and a strong team culture enables us to effectively handle the stress and demands of our busy clinic environment. 13. What are your future plans with Physiatrix Rehab Clinic? As we look towards the future of Physiatrix Rehab Clinic, our primary focus will continue to be on delivering exceptional patient care. We are constantly exploring ways to enhance our treatment approaches and patient experience. Alongside this commitment to quality care, we are also considering the possibility of expanding our reach. Exploring the option of opening another clinic location is on our radar, as it would allow us to serve a wider community and make our services more accessible to those in need. While these plans are still in the preliminary stages, our goal is to our patients.

ONTARIO SOUTH ASIAN HEALTH MAGAZINE

hello@oneelephant.ca

1911 Ironoak Way, Unit 5, Oakville

Dr. Yaad Shergill

DC, CAC, M.Sc.

Chiropractic Doctor / Clinical Research Associate / Professor

Dr. Yaad Shergill is a practicing human and animal Chiropractor with advanced training in clinical sciences, a Clinical Research Associate at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a Professor at Seneca College.

I started my chiropractic education in 2007 and graduated from CMCC in 2011. Fuelled by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a dedication to excellence, I decided to embark on a path of continuous learning, and was accepted into the competitive Clinical Sciences residency program in 2011. It was within the halls of this program that my professional journey was profoundly shaped, leading me to the multifaceted roles I currently hold, including that of a Chiropractor (both humans and animals), Researcher, and Professor. In 2019, I co-founded One Elephant Integrative Health Team Inc, an award winning clinic led by women of colour in Oakville. We pride ourselves on providing interdisciplinary team-based care to individuals, families & corporations. I am also an Animal Chiropractor and love treating dogs, cats and horses with physical injuries and/or wellness. My clinical experiences have further deepened my commitment to providing exceptional care and service to my patients (both animals and humans) and community. My clinical focus is chronic pain, where I blend my knowledge of the mind and body in helping my patients manage chronic pain.

Alongside my clinical practice, I’ve been involved in clinical research with The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI). Our team at OHRI has recently launched The Power Over Pain Portal, an online platform providing people living with chronic pain access to evidence informed resources for managing chronic pain. My research focus is concentrated on improving clinical practice for the care and management of chronic pain and strengthening health systems.

Recognizing the transformative power of education, I embarked on a new phase of my career journey in 2020 when I became a part-time Professor at Seneca College. I currently teach within the programs of the Behavioral Sciences and the Honours Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation.

My combination of hands-on clinical practice, engaging in clinical research, and teaching has equipped me with valuable skills and experience. I leverage these to enhance the well-being of my patients, striving to make a positive impact on their lives.

Dr. Yaad Shergill

Sumeet Shergill M.Sc.

Psychotherapist / Professor

Sumeet Shergill, MSc, is a dedicated professional in the realm of psychology and behavior analysis, leaving a significant imprint on the landscape of mental health. I began my academic journey began with Honours in Psychology and Sociology at the University of Toronto, followed by the attainment of a Master’s of Science with a specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis from the University of Wales in 2010.

Over the past 14 years, I have been making meaningful contributions as a behavior consultant at York Simcoe Brain Injury Services, Centre for Behaviour Health Sciences, Mackenzie Health. Since May 2015, I have also served as a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, underscoring my unwavering commitment to professional standards and ethical practice. Beyond my clinical responsibilities, I hold the position of an adjunct professor within the Behaviour Health Sciences and Behavior Psychology Program at Seneca College.

In my practice, I bring a nuanced cultural perspective, enhancing the field with heightened sensitivity and a profound understanding of the unique mental health challenges within the South Asian community. My journey serves as a potent example of the pivotal contributions made by South Asian professionals in the mental health domain, actively promoting inclusivity and representation in the therapy landscape. Through my roles, I have had the privilege of learning from diverse individuals and behaviors across different populations.

In my private psychotherapy practice, I employ a behavioral lens to assist clients in acquiring the skills necessary for making challenging changes in their lives. I firmly believe in the power of understanding behavior as a means to comprehend others, appreciating the myriad differences and similarities that connect us all.

Sumeet Shergill

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