Pooja Lakshmin

Lakshmin investigates the intersection of mental health and gender dynamics, seeking to redefine wellness practices for women and marginalized communities. Her work critiques mainstream self-care trends, promoting instead authentic practices that delve deeper than surface-level solutions like juice cleanses or gratitude lists. Through her bestselling book, "Real Self-Care: Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble-Baths Not Included," she offers a transformative program that encourages individuals to prioritize their own needs and values, advocating for sustainable mental well-being over quick fixes.\n\nIn addition to her clinical practice and role as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at George Washington University, Lakshmin co-founded Gemma, a digital education platform dedicated to women's mental health. Her initiatives emphasize impact and equity, providing accessible mental health education. As a contributor to the New York Times and a sought-after speaker, she reaches a wide audience with her insights on the oppressive nature of conventional self-care narratives. Readers benefit from her work by gaining tools to navigate mental health challenges and embrace empowerment, particularly those affected by burnout, depression, and anxiety. Through her contributions, Lakshmin continues to illuminate pathways towards genuine self-care and healing.