I've always had a different way of doing things, a sort of unique, angular approach. This style has played a big role in my professional journey. Right now, I find myself managing a solo facial rejuvenation practice that keeps me busy, working on a skincare brand that's gaining momentum, and producing content for an ever-growing online community on YouTube and Instagram. I'm also a father to four wonderful boys, a role I cherish deeply, and I'm lucky to have the support of my remarkable wife in all that I do.
Staying healthy, both in mind and body, is the foundation of everything I do. I’m often asked how I juggle these many areas of my life, and so I’ve outlined a typical day for you below. You'll see that I incorporate self-care into my routine, but always with a focus on efficiency. That's because I believe consistency is the engine of lasting change, and simplicity is the fuel that keeps it running. So, while my life may seem straightforward and predictable, it's a system that works for me. It allows me to be productive, but also to find satisfaction and meaning in the work that I do.
Note, settling into this routine has been a journey and I’ve refined it over many years. Building healthy habits will not happen overnight. I recommend making small, deliberate changes to your routine, such as choosing to take a short walk after dinner or opting for a piece of fruit as a snack, which gradually shapes your behavior over time. Attach your new habits to established ones. For instance, if you're already in the habit of brushing your teeth, consider doing a few minutes of stretching right after brushing to gradually introduce a morning stretching routine. I recommend remaining patient; recognize that building healthy habits is a journey that requires time. Consistency in your efforts, no matter how small, will eventually lead to lasting change that becomes a natural part of your daily life. Ultimately, don’t forget to celebrate your successes! Even celebrating the tiniest accomplishments, like completing a week of consistent exercise or successfully resisting a sugary treat, reinforces the positive behaviors you're trying to cultivate. I encourage you to take the first step to building healthy habits today!
A Typical Day in the Life
Bright & Early: 6:30 - 7 AM
I usually wake up without an alarm by 6:15 AM. Another day, another chance to impact lives positively. The reality of a surgeon's lifestyle isn't limited to what happens within the operating room. In fact, it stretches far beyond that, starting from the moment I wake. Immediately after leaving the bed, I start by drinking 24 ounces of water. Then, I find myself on the inversion table. It's a highly effective tool that aids in decompressing the spine, alleviating back discomfort - a common occupational hazard in my field. As I invert, I allow my body to realign and my mind to focus on the day ahead. A little more stretching and off to the next phase.
Sweating It Out: 7- 7:30 AM
I then find myself on the saddle of my Peloton bike. Cardiovascular exercises like this are pivotal in maintaining optimal health, given the physical and mental demands of my profession. For a focused half-hour, it's just me, my bike, and the gentle hum of the city awakening outside.
Refresh and Rehydrate: 7:30 - 8 AM
Having exerted myself on the bike, rehydration is a crucial next step. My choice of drink? Electrolyte-infused water, vital for replenishing the salts and minerals lost during my morning exercise routine. Following this, I head for a refreshing shower. The warm water works in tandem with my efforts on the inversion table and the bike, further rejuvenating me physically and mentally.
Self-care & Grooming: 8- 8:30 AM
Post-shower, I indulge in a skincare routine, using the Trifecta from my own line, KaramMD Skin. I firmly believe in the significance of self-care and looking my professional best. There's a unique sense of satisfaction as I apply my products, knowing they're a physical manifestation of my dedication to health and well-being.
En Route to Work: 8:30 - 9 AM
By 8:30 AM, I'm headed to my office. This commute isn't simply a drive; it's a transition period, a mental buffer space where I shift gears from my personal world to my professional realm.
Starting My Professional Day: 9 - 10 AM
Upon reaching the office, my professional day truly commences. My morning is filled with patient meetings, the review of medical cases, and team coordination for the day's surgeries. Simultaneously, I also manage to create a social media post for my followers, using these platforms to promote healthcare awareness and share insights into my daily life.
The Surgical Suite: 10 AM - 1 PM
Entering the operating room, I find myself in a space where the stakes are high and precision is paramount. Every surgical procedure is a calculated, meticulous exercise that can change lives. The demanding nature of this work requires periodic breaks. Between surgeries, I refuel with a protein cookie and more electrolyte water, a routine that helps me maintain my focus and energy.
Post-Surgery: 2 - 4 PM
Post-surgery, my focus shifts to patient consultations. Here, my role is multifaceted - as a listener, advisor, and comforter. Each consultation is a unique narrative, and I aim to provide tailored guidance based on each patient's needs. This part of my day, though less dramatic than the operating room, is equally fulfilling, allowing me to make a difference in patients' lives.
Staying Fit: 4:30 - 5:30 PM
Despite a full day at work, I remain committed to physical fitness. A weightlifting session at the gym not only helps me maintain the necessary strength for my physically demanding job, but it also offers an outlet to relieve stress.
Family Time: 6 - 10PM
Coming home to my family is an aspect of my day I truly cherish. Even after a day of high-stakes decisions and intense focus, preparing dinner with my wife for our four children is a grounding experience. It's during these moments of shared stories and laughter that I find balance and joy, reminding me of the importance of nurturing my personal life.
Unwinding & Self-Care
As the day comes to a close, I go through a gentle stretch session, soothing any remaining muscle tension. This is followed by another round of Trifecta skincare with KaramMD Skin. These routines are not just about physical care, but also an affirmation of the importance of personal wellness. Before I retreat for the night, I often spend a few moments watching television with the family, a shared activity that offers a sense of normalcy amid my demanding profession. I then retreat to my sanctuary with a book, losing myself in the world of words. As I turn the final page and switch off the bedside lamp, I feel a sense of contentment. The long day, with all its challenges and rewards, gives way to the calm of the night, preparing me for the cycle to begin anew the next day.
7 comments
Niki Zarcades
Thank you for sharing your day. Is there a particular electrolyte drink that you like? Or do you make your own?
Viktoriya
I really impressed. I will definitely try your skin care products
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