LMP member spotlight: Dhruvisha Patel
I feel like the stars aligned when I first contacted LMP member Dhruvisha Patel to see if she’d like to be the first in this member spotlight series because, the day I emailed her, it was her birthday!
When I received Dhruvisha’s answers I was blown away. What a woman and mainly I feel honoured that someone like Dhruvisha Patel practices Pilates with us.
A black belt in karate, majoring in United Nations and Global Policy Studies and reads articles on AI Cybersecurity. Born in India and based in New Jersey, US, with a love for Paneer Tikka Massala and with goals to not only work for the government but also own a Pilates studio, Dhruvisha is a force to be reconned with. I think we can all…watch this space! Read on for our chat.
Where are you based?
Hi everyone! My name is Dhruvisha Patel, and I am 26 years old. I have been an LMP member for two years now and I am based in New Jersey, U.S.
How did you discover Pilates?
I discovered Pilates accidentally. I was previously doing high-intensity workouts, which were taking a toll on my time and energy levels throughout the day. I also have been taking martial arts classes twice a week for 3.5 years, which added to the drop in my energy levels. (Side Note: I am now a black belt in Karate!) I knew I had to find something more suitable for my lifestyle. I then looked up mid to low-intensity types of exercises on YouTube and found Lottie’s classes. Discovering Pilates was one the best things to have happened to me! I adore it and always look forward to my time on the mat.
“Focusing on your life is not selfish; it’s self-care.”
What’s your favourite class on the LMP platform?
I currently have many favorited videos on the LMP platform. One video I am drawn to is the Advanced Dynamic Conditioning Matt #006. I take that class at least once a week adding weights and a loop band for some extra spice.
And for the important stuff - what is your favourite food or do you have a favourite recipe you’d like to share with us?
I am not much of a cook, but when I do go out to eat, I always end up getting Panner Tikka Masala with lots of Garlic Naan. This will always be my go-to pick. I was born in India; my parents immigrated us to the U.S. when I was around five years old. I grew up in a very Indian household surrounded by loads of Indian food. Being an immigrant in a foreign place and learning a new language in school made me, unfortunately, dislike my culture for some time. As I matured, I grew to finally accept and adore my roots. As a 26-year-old now, I absolutely love my culture and all it has to offer—especially the cuisine.
Are you working on anything personally or professionally at the moment?
At the moment, I am completing my final year in graduate school. I am majoring in the United Nations and Global Policy Studies. I am planning on working in government relations or diplomacy. My ultimate dream would be to work as a program advisor for an international NGO. Additionally, I would love to one day run a Pilates studio! Personally, I am trying to be better with stress management. As a graduate student, the workload tends to be extremely large, and it can be quite difficult trying to manage academics while also maintaining relationships.
Do you have a daily non negotiable or self care habit?
A self-care habit I abide by daily is to take time for myself in the morning. I call it my “chai time,” where I drink my chai in bed and take time to properly unwind before beginning the day.
Are you reading anything at the moment?
As Finals approach, the only reading I am currently doing is for graduate school. This includes various textbooks on Human Rights, Global Health, and multiple articles on AI Cybersecurity. I wish I had more time to read fiction—hopefully during winter break. One of my fondest memories I have with my sister was spending way too long at the library reading.
Do you have any advice that has impacted you and wish to share?
I have always felt guilty whenever I would take time for myself or focus on my own life. Throughout the past few years, I have learned that it is not selfish to think about myself or my desires in life. One piece of advice I would like to share is to let go of the worry or guilt you may feel when taking time for yourself. Focusing on your life is not selfish; it’s self-care.
Thank you so much to Dhruvisha for taking the time to chat with us. We are so honoured and grateful to have you as a LMP member and know you will inspire many of us.