Dr Shalini KATOCH responds to ThinkWellness360 questionnaire.
Why and how did you think of becoming a doctor?
Well, I never thought of becoming doctor; it just came to me ever since I understood my being. I knew only one thing, from then on — that I just want to be a doctor, no matter how and when.
What made you think of, study and specialise in the system of medicine you now practice?
My interest in medicine grew slowly, but purposefully. I attribute my innate call for medicine to my mentor, Dr Varun Dorai, who also guided me in choosing my field: Ayurveda. He encouraged me, no less, to pursuing MD in panchakarma. It was eventually my guru Dr Niranjan Rao, whose determination and passion in the field inspired me to taking my interest forward.
What has been your personal and professional experience as a doctor?
Personally, I’ve healed myself a lot during the journey. Professionally, I have really grown up and learned a good deal. I am happy with whatever I have achieved so far, albeit a great deal of work remains to be done.
What unique and special skills you think you have that has made the big difference for your patients?
I guess it is my work commitment and my compassionate mode of approach with my patients.
What is your best definition of optimal wellness and why?
I think peace of mind is as important as the harmony of the spheres — viz., body and spirit. Nothing harms you when you achieve such a balanced state.
Your ‘best’ case?
A case of rheumatoid arthritis. The patient had severe, multiple joint pain with stiffness and swelling and couldn’t sleep. I put her on panchakarma. It took a bit of time, but there was significant relief. The patient continues to taking medication, under my guidance, but is doing very well.
Your ‘not-so-good’ case?
Chronic alcoholic liver disease. The treatment was going well, but the patient did not ‘kick the bottle’ and succumbed to it.
What appeals to you the most?
Honesty and commitment.
What annoys you the most?
Lack of professionalism.
Your favourite book?
The Diary of a Young Girl, by Anne Frank.
Your favourite joke?
Nothing as such.
Your favourite song?
Little Girl, by The Limits
Your favourite movie?
Avengers [Robert Downey Jr/Scarlett Johansson/Mark Ruffalo/Chris Evans/Stan Lee, et al].
Your favourite TV, Netflix show?
Takeshi’s Castle; Demon Slayer.
Your other interests, or hobbies?
Dancing, travelling, drawing, and cooking.
Your goal in life?
To be a compassionate doctor — and, do my ‘bestest’ to my patients and the community as a whole.
