A Path of Purpose
Dr. Kalpana’s aspiration to become a doctor started in primary school, but it was during her A-Levels in Pre-Med at Taylors College that she realized dentistry was her true calling. Dentistry offered her a balanced lifestyle where she could prioritize her fitness. She graduated from Melaka Manipal Medical College (MMMC) after a challenging five-year program in India and Malacca. Despite being far from home for the first time, she cherishes the core memories and invaluable knowledge gained during her studies. Today, she proudly carries the title of Manipalite and runs a successful private dental practice in Kuala Lumpur, grateful for the support and guidance of her esteemed lecturers.
Embracing a Holistic Approach
In her practice, Dr. Kalpana considers her patients’ overall health and well-being by evaluating their oral health within the context of their lifestyle. She emphasizes preventive care and educates her patients on the impact of nutrition and habits on dental health. Her special interest in aesthetic dentistry brings her immense joy, particularly when she sees her patients’ post-treatment smiles. The gratitude and confidence they exude are immensely rewarding.
Creating a Comforting Environment
Dr. Kalpana ensures her workspace is inviting, creating a pleasant atmosphere with scented rooms and soft jazz music or nature sounds to help alleviate patient anxiety. She spends quality time during consultations, building trust and a strong dentist-patient bond. One memorable patient success story involves a foreign patient for whom she completed a 6-unit anterior crowns procedure, transforming his confidence to smile and showcasing her dedication to patient-centric care.
Staying at the Forefront of Dental Innovations
Dr. Kalpana stays updated with the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques by actively attending conferences, dental exhibitions, and reading extensively. She is a member of professional associations like the Malaysian Dental Association (MDA) and networks with other dental professionals via social media. She has embraced digital dentistry, which saves time and materials, and facilitates seamless communication and accurate data documentation. Additionally, she practices clear aligners using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient understanding.
Balancing Fitness and Professional Life
Starting her fitness journey in 2012, Dr. Kalpana has made it a routine to work out six times a week, either before or after work, thanks to her flexible schedule. Fitness has significantly improved her mood and mental health, reducing stress and boosting confidence. The increased energy levels and reduced fatigue allow her to focus better and enhance productivity in her professional settings.
The Zen of Yoga
Dr. Kalpana started yoga in India during her college years, finding it immensely helpful in reducing stress and anxiety through mindfulness and deep breathing exercises. Yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and posture, reducing the risk of work-related injuries and chronic pain. It promotes self-awareness and emotional regulation, improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills, and building mental resilience.
The Enriching Experience of Travel
Dr. Kalpana loves solo traveling, which she finds to be a journey of self-discovery. It helps her understand her strengths, weaknesses, and preferences, fostering a deeper sense of personal identity. Solo travels build self-reliance and confidence, skills that are transferable to her professional settings. Interacting with fellow travelers enhances her social skills, which contribute significantly to building trust with her patients.
Daily Routine and Challenges
Dr. Kalpana’s routine varies daily, but she practices consistency. She appreciates her 9-6 job, allowing her time for yoga, gym, and family. She hits the gym six days a week, either before or after work. An early bird, she starts her day with making the bed, personal hygiene, and light stretches, followed by meditation and prayers. A healthy breakfast sets a positive tone, significantly improving her energy levels.
Despite her dedication, Dr. Kalpana acknowledges that even the best of us have bad days. Work can sometimes extend past regular hours, causing physical and mental fatigue, and leading her to skip exercise. She believes that the darkest hour is just before dawn. Rather than getting demotivated, she encourages herself to slow down and rest for recovery, becoming stronger the next day.
The Connection Between Hobbies and Profession
Regular exercises improve her overall physical and mental health, essential for maintaining stamina and energy levels needed for dentistry. Strength training and core exercises help maintain proper posture, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues. Yoga enhances flexibility and mobility, and mindfulness practices improve patience and focus. Travel broadens her understanding of diverse patient needs and prevents burnout. Incorporating her personal practices has made her more empathetic and mindful in caring for her patients.
Stress Management and Inspirations
Yoga’s relaxation techniques, including deep breathing and meditation, lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and promoting calmness. Improved sleep cycles keep her rejuvenated. Gym workouts release endorphins, lifting her mood and providing a physical outlet for managing stress. India holds a special place in Dr. Kalpana’s heart for its spiritual growth opportunities. She recently traveled solo to Isha Yoga Coimbatore, which she describes as a transformative spiritual experience.
Engaging in volunteer work at Isha Yoga fostered a sense of community, purpose, and connection, contributing to her emotional and mental well-being.
Advice and Inspiration for Aspiring Dentists
Dr. Kalpana emphasizes the need for a strong academic foundation and passion. Observing practicing dentists helps understand daily responsibilities. Networking is crucial for support and opportunities, and continuous education is vital due to the evolving nature of dentistry. She also highlights the importance of work-life balance and good financial planning. Following a healthy lifestyle helps avoid burnout and ensures a balanced life, crucial for any demanding career.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Dr. Kalpana aims to upgrade herself in various fields of dentistry, particularly 3D dentistry and digital innovations. She is keen on mastering laser and digital dentistry. Personally, she focuses on making each day a rewarding journey, planning to start aerobic yoga to embrace new challenges in her fitness journey.
Dr. Kalpana’s story is a testament to the power of balancing professional dedication with personal well-being. By integrating fitness, yoga, and travel into her life, she has found her zen in dentistry, inspiring others to do the same.
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