Published Date: 09 June, 2023
Global Wellness Day is celebrated annually in June to promote awareness and inspire individuals to adopt a healthier lifestyle, both physically and mentally. This day is a reminder to prioritize self-care and make positive changes in daily routines.
To highlight the importance of Global Wellness Day, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Raya AbuYounis, a Clinical Dietitian Nutritionist from Jordan who works in Dubai.
Find out more about Dr. Raya’s experience with DataFlow and how self-care activities like nutrition, exercise, relaxation, and social connection can help you lead a healthier and happier life.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Raya AbuYounis, and I am a clinical dietitian nutritionist. I was born and raised in Amman, Jordan. I pursued my Bachelor of Science in Nutrition at King’s College in London. Subsequently completed my Master’s degree in International Health Management at Imperial College, also in London. Currently, I am residing in Dubai, where I am actively practicing as a Clinical Nutritionist Dietitian.
What prompted you to choose this career path?
As a teenager, I started thinking about how food affects our bodies and influences our mood and overall well-being.
This sparked my curiosity, and I made up my mind to study the science of nutrition. My aim was clear. I wanted to help people understand the importance of eating a healthy, balanced diet and staying active through exercise. These are the things that contribute to our overall wellness, and I wanted to spread that knowledge far and wide.
Would you recommend a career in healthcare?
Healthcare is a field rooted in compassion. If you’re the kind of person who loves to give selflessly – your time, knowledge, effort, and even your emotions -then a career in healthcare is meant for you, no matter your background. Whether it’s nutrition, pharmacy, medicine, or any related field, what truly matters is your genuine desire to serve and make a positive impact on people’s lives.
As a busy healthcare professional, how do you prioritize your physical and mental wellness?
Sometimes, achieving a work-life balance can be quite challenging, and it’s easy to feel caught off guard. However, I have found a few strategies that help me navigate this situation.
Firstly, I prioritize my tasks by using a to-do list, which allows me to stay organized and focused. I also make it a point to dedicate at least half an hour each day to exercise or go for a walk. This helps me maintain my physical well-being and rejuvenate my mind. And lastly, I carve out time for myself to practice meditation, whether it’s for 20 minutes or just 15 minutes – whatever fits into my schedule. Even during busy moments when I’m rushing from one place to another, I remind myself to pause and engage in breathing exercises, which greatly contribute to restoring my psychological wellness.
These simple practices go a long way in ensuring a sense of balance and overall well-being in my life.
What self-care tips would you like to give our readers on Global Wellness Day?
I believe the key lies in taking small steps and incorporating gradual changes into your daily routine.
Start by having a small, healthy snack each day. Include some fruits and vegetables in your meals. Take 20 to 30 minutes for a walk, even if it’s just around your workplace or at home. Find moments to relax and think about the good things in life rather than dwelling on negatives that stress you out. Don’t forget to spend time with friends, meet new people, and try new things that push you out of your comfort zone. Whenever you have the chance, go on trips and explore new places. These activities will gradually bring you back to a positive state of mind.
What are your thoughts on pursuing a career in healthcare overseas?
Pursuing a career in healthcare overseas offers a wide range of opportunities. It broadens your horizons and allows you to continuously learn new things. For example, when I visit Jordan for a few weeks each year, I make an effort to share the knowledge I’ve gained with my family, friends, and local community.
I also utilize social media platforms to engage with others and provide as much information as I can. Living in the UAE has truly been a blessing and has opened my eyes to many aspects of life, including nutrition, wellness, and different ways of living.
How did DataFlow help you in pursuing your career abroad?
DataFlow has been a great help in verifying my credentials, like my university degree and work certificate from Jordan. This was important for me to qualify for the DHA Clinical Dietitian test in Dubai and get registered to work in healthcare. Whenever I needed any documents or had questions, they were quick to respond and easy to communicate with. I definitely recommend DataFlow to anyone who needs to verify their credentials or wants to pursue a career in the healthcare sector.
Do you have any final words of advice on the importance of self-care?
One thing I’d like to add is that I urge everyone to break the stigma that self-care is selfish. Remember, you are important, and taking care of yourself is a priority. Take care of your health, your mind, and your body. Eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, and try to socialize as much as you can.
Start your Primary Source Verification journey!
Looking to start your international healthcare career, just like Dr. Raya? Get your important documents verified through DataFlow to avoid any delays moving overseas. It will give you the credibility you need and set you on the path to success in the global healthcare industry.
