International Women's Day with Acupuncturist Amrit Singh

Empowering Women Through Holistic Healing: A Conversation with Amrit Singh

 

In a special feature for International Women's Day 2024, our founder Lauren, took time to interview one of her favourite female figures in the realm of holistic health, Amrit Singh. Amrit is not just any practitioner, she's a Registered Acupuncturist whose dedication and groundbreaking work earned her the 'Healthcare Professional of the Year' Award. With a focus that spans Cosmetic Acupuncture, fertility, and digestive health, Amrit has spent nearly a decade fine-tuning her approach to treating women. Through her journey, she's uncovered the profound effects of lifestyle choices, societal pressures, relationship dynamics, and workplace environments on women's health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

Lauren's conversation with Amrit offers a personal glimpse into the motivations, challenges, and wisdom that shape her practice.

Lauren: We would love to hear how you founded your business and what inspired you to start it?

Amrit: How I became an Acupuncturist is such a personal story of healing and learning. In Winnipeg, also known as “Winterpeg”, I fell on the ice and injured my back when I was only 22. I was in a lot of chronic pain for many years, which was incredibly challenging at that age. Later, when I moved to Toronto for my career in the music business, I noticed the pain was shifting and changing. Serendipitously, I came across this 'clinic' below a Pilates studio I was trying, because I was willing to try anything to alleviate my back pain, and one day I just decided to go in. Once I explained what happened, they suggested I try acupuncture. Knowing nothing about it at the time, I somehow confidently agreed and experienced both physical and emotional relief from the treatment.

It was at that moment I realized the connection between the emotional body and the physical. That evening, I went home, researched all about acupuncture and Chinese medicine, and decided that very night to quit the music business. One year later, I was enrolled in school. But here’s the best part - that 'clinic' was actually a school and a student clinic, and it ended up being the same school from which I graduated. It was a full circle and a wonderful experience and that’s how I became an Acupuncturist. 

Lauren: That's incredible, Amrit. Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self?

Amrit: Don’t worry; it's all going to work out.

• Find Buddhism earlier so you can suffer less.
• Follow your gut; it’s always right.
• Find forgiveness earlier.
• Money isn’t everything.
• Don’t settle too early in a relationship; take your time.

Some of this advice I followed, some I wish I knew earlier.

Lauren: In today's fast-paced world, what wellness advice would you give to women in business who also want to prioritize self-care?

Amrit: I know balancing everything is tough for us as women, but I'd suggest matching other people's energy. Don't keep pouring into a leaky cup. If a friendship or relationship drains you or doesn't reciprocate your efforts, either leave or adjust your efforts to match theirs. This protects your boundaries and minimizes resentment, crucial for self-care.

Scheduling self-care is vital. During busy times, I block it on my calendar and treat it like a meeting. I categorize self-care into two pillars: longer activities like hikes, trips, spa days for example, and shorter ones under 60 minutes like meditation, workout, or sauna. This way, even in a hectic schedule, I ensure I prioritize at least a mini self-care session, and I know I did something for myself in the day.

If available, I highly suggest incorporating time-saving services into your routine during busy periods. Consider wash and styles, meal delivery, cleaners, or laundry services. Integrating these types of conveniences, even on occasion, can significantly alleviate your mental load and contribute positively to your overall mental well-being. By outsourcing certain tasks, you free up valuable time and energy to focus on other important things.

Lauren: That's such practical advice, thank you. Can you recall a time that made you doubt yourself or feel imposter syndrome? How do you cope with those feelings?

Amrit: For many years, I didn’t think I was going to make it as an acupuncturist, which I think a lot of people would find shocking. Year after year, I would question being in practice and whether I would ever make a decent living from it. Even now, sometimes I don’t know if people will care about what I’m about to post, yet they always like it and find it interesting. I believe that's because, having been in practice for so long, acupuncture was in a different place back then. It was still quite obscure, and social media definitely did not exist. Now, if I question whether my post is worth it, I just remember that even if one person reads it and learns something, I did my job, and I'm happy with that.

Lauren: That's a powerful reminder of the impact we can have, one person at a time. Lastly, when do you feel most powerful?

Amrit: Honestly, when I am on top of all my work and to-do lists, when I don’t feel like I'm drowning in them, when my home is clean, I’m eating well and taking care of myself, and I have a sense of what is next. That’s when I feel strong and powerful - when anything I want to do in my alignment feels possible.

Lauren: Amrit, it's been such an honour to speak with you today. Your journey is a testament to the strength of following one's passion and the power of holistic health. Your insights not only shine a light on the intricate balance of self-care and professional life but also serve as an inspiration to women everywhere. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences with us.

Amrit Singh's story is one of inspiration and a reminder of the resilience and strength inherent in every woman. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us take a moment to reflect on our own journeys and the steps we can take to nurture our well-being, pursue our passions, and empower ourselves and those around us. Heat Healer is proud to feature women like Amrit, who not only pave the way for future generations but also remind us of the importance of health, balance, and self-care in our daily lives. If you want to learn more about Amrit you can check her out here: