Interview with An Award-Winning Health Educator Jhumpa Mukherjee
Having the vision to become a health educator is great. Making it happen is another story!
Discover the challenges she overcame and the strategies she employed to turn her vision into reality. This interview is not just about inspiration—it’s her journey to make a real impact in the world of health and wellness.
In that frame, We had the pleasure to interview Jhumpa Mukherjee. She is a multifaceted professional with a rich blend of expertise in marketing, writing, and health education. As a Consultant for various brands, she leverages her Master’s degree in International Business Operations and her alumni status from IIM Amritsar to drive impactful strategies. With over 7 years of experience, Jhumpa has authored numerous technical articles and earned prestigious recognitions, including the ‘Face of the Year 2023’ award by FoxStory India. Beyond her corporate role, Jhumpa is passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle, she conducts interactive, logic-based health awareness sessions that inspire participants to make meaningful changes in their daily routines.
1. Given your diverse background in marketing, writing, and health education, how do you see these areas intersecting in your professional life?
My background in marketing helps me understand how to effectively communicate complex ideas in an engaging and accessible way. Writing allows me to create compelling content that resonates with my audience. As a health educator, I use these skills to design and deliver interactive sessions that not only inform but also inspire. The intersection of these areas enables me to craft messages that promote healthy living in a relatable and impactful manner.
2. What motivated you to become a health advocate and shaped your passion for health and wellness?
My personal journey towards a healthier lifestyle motivated me to become a health advocate. Experiencing the profound benefits of improved physical and mental health firsthand, I felt compelled to share this knowledge with others. I wanted to help people understand that making small changes can lead to significant health improvements and that everyone has the potential to lead a healthier life.
A crucial moment in my health journey was overcoming a period of poor health due to a demanding work schedule and unhealthy habits. By making gradual changes such as incorporating regular exercise, improving my diet, and practicing mindfulness, I experienced a dramatic improvement in my energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being. This transformation fueled my passion.
I often wonder why these important aspects of health are not part of our school curriculum. Why has nobody taught us the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle? This realization inspired me to take on the responsibility of sharing my experience and knowledge as much as I can, helping others discover the life-changing benefits of a healthier lifestyle.
3. How can individuals incorporate healthy habits into their daily routines, especially with busy schedules?
People can incorporate healthy habits by making small, manageable changes that fit seamlessly into their busy schedules. Start by adding physical activity, even if it’s just a 30-minute brisk walk or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Focus on consuming natural, wholesome foods rather than processed products found in bottles, packets, and tins. Incorporate yoga and deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and boost mental clarity. Prioritize getting enough sleep to allow your body to recover and rejuvenate. Setting realistic goals and gradually building on these habits can lead to lasting improvements in health and well-being.
4. How do you address common misconceptions about health and wellness?
One common misconception is that being healthy requires drastic changes or expensive solutions. In reality, small, consistent changes can have a significant impact. Another misconception is that physical health is more important than mental health, whereas both are equally crucial and interconnected. People also often believe in quick fixes or fad diets, which are usually unsustainable and potentially harmful. I address misconceptions by providing evidence-based information and debunking myths through clear, logical explanations. During my sessions, I encourage open discussions and answer questions to clarify doubts. By presenting reliable data and sharing real-life success stories, I help participants understand the true principles of health and wellness.
5. What do you see as the biggest challenges in public health today?
With the overwhelming amount of information available online, people often struggle to distinguish credible sources from myths and misinformation. This has led to widespread confusion and a lack of basic health literacy. Unlike other subjects, health education is often not emphasized in school curriculums, leaving many without essential knowledge about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We need platforms and programs that educate people about the fundamentals of health, ensuring that they make informed decisions about their well-being.
6. How do you customize your health education sessions to cater to different audiences, such as students, professionals, and other age groups?
Each audience has unique needs and challenges, so I customize my sessions accordingly. For students, I focus on building healthy habits that can enhance their academic performance and overall well-being. For professionals and corporate teams, I emphasize stress management, work-life balance, and practical tips for maintaining health amidst busy schedules. I conduct pre-session surveys to understand the specific concerns and interests of the audience, which allows me to customize the content to be most relevant and beneficial for them. This personalized approach ensures that each session is impactful and resonates with the participants.
7. How does using electronic devices before bed affect sleep quality?
Using electronic devices before going to bed can severely impact sleep quality. The blue light emitted by these screens disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, engaging with social media or work emails before bed can keep the mind active and anxious, further delaying the onset of sleep. To promote better sleep quality, it’s crucial to establish a digital curfew and avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime, allowing your body to prepare naturally for restful sleep.
8. What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey towards a healthier lifestyle?
Start small and be patient with yourself. Focus on one or two changes at a time, such as adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet or taking daily walks. Set realistic goals and celebrate your progress, no matter how minor it may seem. Find activities you enjoy, as this will make it easier to stick with them. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage your efforts. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. A healthier lifestyle is a journey, not a destination, and every small step counts.
9. What role do you envision for yourself in shaping the future of health and wellness?
I envision myself as a catalyst for change in the health and wellness industry, using my knowledge to inspire and educate others. My goal is to expand my reach by collaborating with more organizations and educational institutions. I plan to develop online resources and workshops to make health education accessible to a broader audience.
10. How can people connect with you and learn more about your sessions?
People can connect with me through my LinkedIn profile. I also share regular updates and health tips on my Instagram handle (the_fitlife_tales), where I engage with my audience and provide valuable insights on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
