Redefining Motherhood and Breaking Mental Health Taboos.
After I gave birth to my elder daughter, I went through one of the toughest phases of my life. I struggled with mental health issues that no one had prepared me for. Nights were the hardest—I would cry silently, feeling happiness slip further away with each passing day. I didn’t know how to cope. There was no one I could talk to, no safe space to share what I was going through.
That experience left a deep mark on me. I promised myself that no other mother should ever feel that isolated and helpless. That’s why I share stories like these—stories of women who are breaking barriers, challenging taboos, and creating safe spaces for all of us.
This week, I want to talk about one such incredible woman: Dr. Mahima Bakshi, who has dedicated her life to ensuring that no mom feels alone on her motherhood journey.
When we talk about strength, we often picture physical power. But true strength? It’s the courage to speak up about things no one wants to talk about. Dr. Mahima Bakshi embodies that strength.
In a country where conversations about maternal mental health are often whispered, if they happen at all, Mahima is using her voice, her expertise, and her relentless passion to change the narrative. And that’s why she’s our Woman of the Week.
From Wellness Expert to Warrior for Mothers
Mahima didn’t just stumble into this journey. As a Women & Child Wellness Expert, author, and TEDx speaker, she always knew motherhood needed more empathy and less judgment. But the turning point came when she realised just how lonely many new mothers feel, physically and emotionally.
Her solution? Birthing Naturally Queen is an initiative that’s become India’s largest platform for maternal mental health awareness. It’s not just a name; it’s a movement to help mothers embrace the natural process of birth and motherhood without fear, stigma, or silence.
Breaking Taboos, One Conversation at a Time
From postpartum depression to stress during pregnancy, Mahima tackles the issues no one wants to acknowledge. Through workshops, Instagram Lives, and collaborations with leading OB-GYNs, she normalises asking for help—because moms deserve more than “be strong.”
“I want every woman to know: You are not alone, and your mental well-being matters just as much as your child’s,” Mahima often says.
Her work also challenges age-old stereotypes about parenting being a woman’s sole responsibility. She strongly advocates for equal parenting, public breastfeeding, and empowering women to speak up for their needs.
Beyond Conversations: Real Action
What makes Mahima stand out is her ability to blend advocacy with action.
✔️ Books that Empower – Her books, Birthing Naturally and Empowering You Beyond Birthing, are trusted guides for countless moms navigating pregnancy and motherhood.
✔️ Community Building – Through campaigns like the Birthing Naturally Queen Calendar, supported by the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Mahima promotes wellness in creative, relatable ways.
✔️ Recognition & Influence – From TEDx talks to SHE Awards Dubai, her work has earned global recognition, but her heart remains rooted in helping Indian moms.
Why Mahima Inspires Us
Dr Mahima Bakshi is our woman of the weeek because she’s changing motherhood from a lonely journey to a shared, supported experience. Because she makes it okay to say, “I’m struggling.” And because she’s proof that one woman’s voice can shatter silence—and spark a movement.