In an interview with ETMarkets, he talked about how traditional practices like neti, yoga, and meditation are essential to his daily life, which helps him stay focused and resilient even amidst a demanding schedule.
From starting your day with respiratory cleansing techniques to winding down with an evening walk, Ja’s holistic approach to health not only enhances your personal well-being, but also develops your leadership and decision-making skills.
His approach to wellness highlights its transformative impact on overcoming challenges and providing effective leadership in the corporate world.
Edited excerpt:
Thank you for your time. With your busy schedule as MD and CEO, how do you incorporate healthy habits like Neti into your daily life?
Thank you for inviting me. Wellness practices are essential to my routine and help me stay focused despite my demanding schedule.
I incorporate neti early every morning, which blends well with my other health habits and doesn’t take much time. This habit supports my focus and, over time, has become as essential as any other part of my day, allowing me to fully engage with my responsibilities.
You practice neti every morning. How has this traditional technique helped maintain respiratory health, especially considering the challenges of urban environments?
Practicing neti has had an incredibly positive impact on my respiratory health, especially considering the air quality issues in a busy city like Mumbai.
It helped clear impurities in the nasal passages and avoid common respiratory problems that can be caused by pollution.
Neti also leaves you feeling refreshed, making it a great way to start your day on a positive, health-conscious note.
Can you tell us more about the role of gentle stretching and yoga in your fitness routine? How do these exercises contribute to your physical and mental health?
Light stretching and yoga exercises are the basis of my fitness routine. These exercises keep me flexible and active and help relieve stiffness and tension that can build up over time.
It also supports mental clarity by promoting the connection between mind and body. This is invaluable in laying the foundation for a productive day.
Mentally, the concentration yoga requires makes you more present and able to cope with any challenges that may arise.
What specific benefits have you noticed from incorporating exercises that focus on flexibility and circulation into your daily routine?
The focus on flexibility and circularity has been transformative. It keeps your muscles and joints agile and reduces the risk of aches and stiffness common with desk jobs.
The improved circulation, especially with these low-impact exercises, energizes me throughout the day and helps me stay sharp and alert in my role.
After yoga, meditate for 10-15 minutes. How does meditation help you prepare for the demands of your role and which techniques do you find most effective?
Meditation resets my mind each morning and allows me to face the day with peace and clarity. I focus on simple mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and guided visualization to help clear the mind and reduce lingering stress.
This habit allows you to approach decision-making with patience and balance, which is especially helpful in your role as a leader.
In the evening, I take a brisk walk to relax. How does this activity help you transition from a fast-paced work day to a more relaxed and reflective state?
Evening walks are my way of marking the end of a workday and releasing any remaining stress. Being outdoors in a natural environment allows you to reflect on the day’s events, consider your accomplishments, and prepare for the next day.
It is a slow and relaxing physical activity that does not require strenuous exercise.
Do you think these health habits have had a significant impact on your leadership and decision-making abilities at LIC Mutual Fund AMC?
absolutely. These practices have helped me stay calm, focused, and clear-headed, and have improved my leadership abilities.
The ability to manage stress positively impacts my decision-making and helps me approach challenges thoughtfully rather than passively.
Wellness is therefore not just a personal interest, but a professional interest that enhances my ability to effectively lead LIC Mutual Fund AMC.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions expressed by experts are their own. (They do not represent the views of Economic Times)
