Dr. Raman Chawla is an Internal Medicine Specialist who has been practicing in Ottawa since 2007. She is also a Care of the Elderly Certified Physician through the University of Toronto. With a long-standing clinical affiliation at Queensway Carleton Hospital and University of Ottawa, medicine has been her lifelong passion.

A Personal Path to Mindfulness

Dr. Chawla’s understanding of healing was profoundly transformed in 2015 when her mother was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Initially confronted with the limitations of conventional medicine and a deep sense of helplessness, she found new direction through her mother’s challenge to look inward, embrace hope, and live with dignity and grace.

Together, they explored mindfulness, yoga, and travel. Her mother remained strong, centered, and independent until her passing on March 15, 2017. This deeply personal experience inspired Dr. Chawla to pursue formal training as a mindfulness teacher, influenced by the pioneering work of Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn and his colleagues at the University of Massachusetts. She had the honour of meeting them during retreats in May 2018, July 2018, and May 2019.

Dr. Chawla is also inspired by the great work of Mindful Self-Compassion pioneers Dr. Kristin Neff and Dr. Chris Germer. She is dedicated to bridging clinical medicine and mindful living, with a particular passion for bringing mindfulness practices to the Ottawa community. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2024 for her work as a wellness advisor and Board member with the Federation of Medical Women of Canada (Ottawa Chapter), as well as for mentoring medical students.

Dr. Chawla remains deeply grateful to her family and friends, whose love and support continue to sustain her on this meaningful journey.