Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

A wellness guide for inner peace

A wellness guide for inner peace

AUTHOR SWETA VIKRAM DISCUSSES HER NEW BOOK

A LIFE-THREATENING health crisis led acclaimed author Sweta Vikram towards writing her latest book A Piece of Peace.


The autobiographical collection of inspiring essays documents her journey from a near fatal disease to recovery through mindfulness and Ayurvedic healing. She describes the wellness guide as a path to inner peace and personal power for those feeling overwhelmed by the pandemic. This latest literary offering adds to the impressive number of books from the prolific New York-based writer.

Eastern Eye caught up with Sweta to discuss A Piece of Peace, the key life lessons it offers and advice for those going through difficulties.

What led towards you writing A Piece of Peace?

I wrote it to share my story, create a safe space for those struggling with chronic illness and life's battles, and remind people about the power of positivity, the magic of showing up, and much more. I also want to remind women to stop relying on people to build you up or tell your stories. Unexpressed stories, trauma in the body, and lack of self-care can wreak havoc on the body and your life.

Who are you hoping connects with the book?

I hope this book reminds people that they aren’t alone in their struggles and suffering. I hope it connects with anyone who is looking for accessible ways to understand healing, interesting ways to enhance their productivity and creativity, and nourishing ways to sustain a balanced life. This book will connect deeply with women, creative professionals, chronic illness warriors, those in high-stress jobs, and people curious about the mind-body connection.

What was the biggest challenge of writing it? 

Writing certain parts of this book meant reliving the physical and emotional agony of those days. Forgiving people along the way wasn’t easy either.

How does writing an empowering book like this compare to a novel?

All of my writings include a deep essence of wellness and women’s empowerment. All these

years, through my books, I have given a voice to other women’s stories or highlighted social issues. With A Piece of Peace, I tell my story and work as a guide. Writing non-fiction is definitely more nerve-wracking because you don’t have the mask of fiction/novel to hide behind.

Is there one key life lesson in the book that's closest to your heart?

Listen to your body. It communicates and there are signs when things aren’t working. Look at yourself as a whole, where the mind-body is connected. For example, you can eat the best locally sourced and organically grown meals, and workout six days a week. But if you don’t address stress, trauma, or a plethora of other issues plaguing your life, you can’t expect to feel 100 per cent.

What advice would you give those going through a difficult time?

The truth is life will continue to throw difficult situations at us; it’s up to each one of us how we handle the crisis. Get practices and rituals in place to nurture your health, creativity and relationships. No matter what happens, choose to stay kind because it helps you. Make time for self-care because it works as a soothing balm on a deep wound. Know that the hard times shall pass, but be discerning about who you let into your life or share your problems with when you are vulnerable.

What helped you most during your lowest point?

I believe that every experience happens for a reason. No one has it all good or all bad in their life. Having a positive mindset helped tremendously. I talked to a trusted few people during my lowest point. I also learned to befriend stillness and silence. When you surrender, you conserve energy. I constantly reminded myself that things would get better. And eventually, the ‘teacher’ would reveal the lesson I was supposed to learn from the experience.

Lead inse A Piece Of Peace copy

What inspires you?

I believe that inspiration is everywhere; in people, nature, books, on walks, in a cup of chai, and daily living. You have to want to see it!

What books do you enjoy reading?

I am a big supporter of books written by women authors. My love for reading has never changed but my taste in books keeps evolving. It’s often reflective of what I am going through or perhaps, exploring internally. Of late, non-fiction books that enrich our emotional and mental well-being have kept me interested.

What can we expect next from you? 

I started working on a new novel last year. You can expect fierce characters with a purpose and passion.

Why do you love being a writer?

Writing is how I navigate the world. Writing is as intuitive as breathing for me. On some days, writing allows me to give other women and their stories a voice; on some days, being a writer helps me manage my conundrums.

Why should we pick up your new book?

You should pick up the book because why wouldn’t you want to learn simple, accessible, and relatable tips and tricks to enhance your well-being, productivity, creativity, quality of your relationships, and life overall.

More For You

heatwave

The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts

Getty Images

Doctors warn of hidden signs of heat stroke as UK issues amber alerts

Key points

  • Amber heat-health alerts issued as temperatures approach 35°C in parts of the UK.
  • Early signs of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech, and dizziness.
  • Heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke if not treated within 30 minutes.
  • At-risk groups include the elderly, young children, and those with health conditions.
  • NHS and health experts urge people to stay hydrated, cool, and avoid midday sun.

Medical experts are urging the public to remain alert for the early signs of heat stroke, as temperatures across parts of England are expected to reach up to 35°C. The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts, warning that extreme heat can have serious health impacts. Doctors stress that symptoms can begin subtly, making early intervention crucial.

Heat alerts across multiple regions

Amber-level warnings are in effect for the West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, South East, South West, London, and the East of England.

Keep ReadingShow less
Jeremy Clarkson pub

The controversy surrounding the ketchup ban caught the attention of British condiment company Condimaniac

Getty Images

Clarkson’s Farmer’s Dog pub ends ketchup ban with British-made alternative

Key points

  • Jeremy Clarkson’s Farmer’s Dog pub banned non-British products, including ketchup and Coca-Cola.
  • The rule sparked months of backlash from customers who called it “weird”.
  • British condiment company Condimaniac developed a 100% British-sourced ketchup in response.
  • The new ketchup will be stocked at the pub, but only in full bottles for purchase.
  • Some visitors remain critical as the condiment isn’t yet available for table use.

Jeremy Clarkson’s strict British-only policy at his Farmer’s Dog pub has caused considerable controversy since its launch, particularly due to the absence of staple condiments like ketchup. However, a recent development by a British condiment company could finally offer a compromise. The pub will now stock a fully British-sourced ketchup developed in response to the ban, although it will only be available to buy in bottles rather than offered with meals.

Clarkson's British-only policy sparked backlash

When Jeremy Clarkson opened the Farmer’s Dog pub in the Cotswolds, featured on the Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm, he introduced a strict rule: the pub would serve only 100% British food and drink. This ethos was designed to promote local sourcing and support British farming and production.

Keep ReadingShow less
Turkey wildfires 2025

The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir

Getty Images

Turkey wildfires disrupt travel as Izmir airport closes

Key points

  • Tourists stranded after Foça wildfire halts flights at Izmir airport
  • At least 550 people evacuated from homes in the region
  • Over 600 personnel deployed to contain the blaze
  • Strong winds and heat raise risk of further fires

Wildfires force airport shutdown in Turkish holiday hotspot

Hundreds of UK tourists, including several from Glasgow, have been left stranded after major wildfires swept through a popular holiday destination in western Turkey, forcing the closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.

The blaze broke out in the resort town of Foça, near Izmir, and was rapidly intensified by strong winds, prompting large-scale evacuations and flight disruptions. All operations at the airport were suspended from 4 pm local time due to ongoing extinguishing efforts, with multiple flights reportedly diverted.

Keep ReadingShow less
Shefali Jariwala

Glutathione and anti ageing drugs under spotlight after Shefali Jariwala death

Instagram/shefalijariwala

Did anti-ageing pills, beauty supplements and glutathione trigger Shefali Jariwala’s death?

Quick highlights:

  • Shefali Jariwala died at 42 in Mumbai after reportedly collapsing post-fast; cause of death suspected to be cardiac arrest or blood pressure drop.
  • Police found anti-ageing pills, vitamin supplements, and glutathione injections at her residence.
  • Doctors stress the risks of unsupervised use of hormone-based and anti-ageing treatments.
  • Final post-mortem report expected in two days; no foul play suspected, case treated as accidental death.

The untimely death of actor-model Shefali Jariwala has sparked renewed concern over the unregulated use of anti-ageing treatments and self-medication. The 42-year-old, best known for her appearance in Kaanta Laga, was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital on Friday night. Initial investigations suggest she may have suffered a cardiac arrest following a steep drop in blood pressure, possibly linked to taking supplements on an empty stomach.

Keep ReadingShow less
Prada 2026 sandals

Prada acknowledges Indian influence behind its Spring Summer 2026 men’s footwear

Instagram/prada/iStock

Prada finally acknowledges Kolhapuri chappals inspired 2026 sandals after Indian backlash over Milan show

Quick highlights:

• Prada confirms Indian roots behind 2026 ‘leather sandals’ after controversy
• Indian artisans and officials accused the brand of cultural appropriation
• The footwear resembles traditional Kolhapuri chappals with GI status
• Prada says designs are still in development and open to dialogue with India

Keep ReadingShow less