Meet Hima Dalal

We recently connected with Hima Dalal and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Hima, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

When I graduated from OT school in Mumbai, India, in 1981, I was a 21-year-old with dreams in my eyes and only a few dollars in my pocket. Arriving in the USA, I found myself timid in a new country with a different culture. My self-confidence was low, and I faced numerous challenges that made me question my abilities and self-worth.

The true test came when I joined the Occupational and Physical Therapy department at Case Western Reserve University. Among 60 therapists, I had to prove my education, learning capabilities, and English language proficiency, especially in writing. Drawing upon my childhood lessons in meditation, concentration, and focus, rooted in my ancient holistic teachings, spirituality, and cultural confidence instilled by my family, I persevered.

I took initiative to join the emerging program at University Hospitals for Breast Cancer Rehabilitation, collaborating with plastic surgeons, general surgeons, and oncologists. This experience bolstered my self-confidence, self-esteem, and motivation to serve the community holistically. My aim was to empower individuals to live fully, free from pain, and independently.

Integrating my Eastern training in yoga, meditation, and relaxation techniques, I focused on helping cancer patients maintain positivity and openness to their treatments. This holistic approach not only addressed their physical needs but also nurtured their mental and emotional well-being, equipping them to confront challenges with resilience and dignity

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Hima Dalal Integrative Health represents my journey as a holistic, integrative occupational therapist. Over the past 43 years, I have proudly practiced occupational therapy, blending ancient Eastern medicine with traditional methods. As an integrative therapist, I focus on treating patients at the root level—addressing not only physical pain or dysfunction but also fostering emotional balance and mental stability to enable them to live life fully.

In 2002, my journey led me to Columbia, SC, where I began sharing my integrative therapy approach with patients. The overwhelming response led to the establishment of Vital Energy Wellness & Rehab Center in 2005. Spanning two facilities and equipped with modern amenities like a Hydroworx pool and laser therapy, we created a nurturing environment supported by a skilled team of therapists and staff.

Our center made a significant impact by combining traditional and complementary therapies such as Energy Medicine, Reiki, Myofascial Release, Cranio Sacral Therapy, Therapeutic Yoga, and Mindfulness Meditation. This holistic approach addressed a wide range of issues from chronic pain to cognitive health across all age groups.

After selling Vital Energy, I recently opened Hima Dalal Integrative Health, where I continue to use energy medicine to heal patients physically, emotionally, and mentally. I am dedicated to advocating for our vulnerable populations through community outreach, educating about health and wellness through TV shows, articles, workshops, and free mindfulness meditation sessions on social media. My mission is to empower individuals to take charge of their well-being and live their best lives.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

As an integrative occupational therapist, I find profound joy and fulfillment in assisting individuals to live their lives to the fullest. My role involves guiding, motivating, and facilitating their journey, meeting them where they are and helping them identify their goals and purpose. I emphasize the significance of acceptance, forgiveness, and unconditional self-love, promoting alignment across their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Encouraging personal investment in one’s healing journey is pivotal. I advocate for living consciously and adopting lifestyles that nurture overall well-being. Mentoring students who aspire to enter this field is a passion of mine, aiding them in discovering their inherent passions, effectively managing stress, and fostering a career that feels more like a joyful pursuit than mere work. By embodying joy and radiance, we can positively impact the lives of those we serve.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

Throughout my journey as an integrative occupational therapist, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support that has sustained me. My parents, with their belief in my potential, laid the foundation for my aspirations. My family—my husband, children, and grandchildren—have been a constant source of love and encouragement.

I am enriched by my friends, co-workers, and community whose faith in my work humbles and inspires me. Collaboration with physicians and allied healthcare workers has been vital in achieving holistic healing for my patients.

I owe a profound debt of gratitude to my Guru and his family, whose wisdom has illuminated my path, guiding me towards a deeper understanding of holistic healing.

Above all, I thank God, the ultimate source of blessings, for empowering me to serve others to the fullest extent of my abilities. Each day, I strive to honor the support and blessings I have received by dedicating myself to the well-being and holistic healing of those I serve

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.integrativehealthsc.com
• Instagram: integrativehealthsc
• Facebook: integrativehealthsc
• Linkedin: Hima Dalal Integrative Health
• Youtube: inegrativehealthsc
• Other: https://www.himadalalintegrativehealth.com