Rina Desai
Rina Desai
Who is Rina Desai?
Rina, the founder of The Malas B, is on a mission to destigmatize mental health and open up channels of communication for others. As a mother of two girls and a trained Physical Therapist, she started The Malas B to connect with the community, raise awareness about mental health, and reach out to individuals battling mental disorders and their caregivers.
Please briefly summarize your life's journey, highlighting the significant chapters and pivotal moments.
I grew up with a mom who has schizophrenia, which was very challenging. Each decade provided me with insight on how to deal with mental health as a caretaker. I went crafting with friends and found a way to create Mala (my mom's name) necklaces and give back to the community, bring awareness to mental health, and break down the stigma.
What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?
Growing up south Asian from an immigrant family had its challenges. And then add having a mother with schizophrenia to the mix. We grew up with everything being hushed, we didn’t talk about it we had to learn how to accept it and just move on. What everyone else thought was the way we were taught to handle situations. I luckily had an amazing support system from my sisters, family, and friends that allowed me to accept my differences, the difficulties, and as I grew older I understood that I didn’t have to be embarrassed by it but embrace it. Once that switch happened I was able to handle the difficult situations.
What lessons did you learn about yourself throughout your journey?
I have learned that everyone has their own differences. Having these experiences molds each and every one of us and we should learn and grow from each other versus breaking it down or shying away from it. The biggest turn I have made is letting go of the embarrassment and discussing the reality of it. Being open about mental health and how I had to deal with it as a caretaker has allowed people to be open with me and have discussions I never would have had if I hadn’t embarked on this journey.
What motivates you to keep going during difficult times?
My father. He never gave up when he was trying to get my mother the help she needed. He drove hours to see a psychiatrist that was recommended, he did admit her when it was needed and tried as much as he knew how to help her. Growing up and seeing his efforts allows my sisters and I to provide as much as we can for her.
How have you been able to prioritize your passion, purpose, and wellbeing alongside motherhood? (if applicable)
I was fortunate enough to be able to work part-time while raising my two girls. When I embarked on malasb the girls are much older now and they are doing it with me. Teaching them philanthropic work, importance of mental health, and the value of caregiving reminds me how important it is to manage the time to fit it in our busy schedule.
How do you define self-care and what does it look like for you?
Movement! Mind-body connection is so important. Meditation and any form of exercise carving out just a couple minutes a day goes a long way.
What changes needed to be made in your life to allow you to live a life where you feel fulfilled?
I have felt an “emptiness” at one point not knowing what else I needed. When I started malasb I realized I am exactly where I need to be spiritually
Why do you think it's important for women to share their journeys and inspire other women?
Growing up, I felt the women around me didn’t discuss their emotions, how they felt, or what they needed. There was an expectation in our culture for women to be homemakers and provide for their kids, husbands, and home on top of working. It was rare for men to be active and help women. It has definitely changed with generational differences and with women speaking up and being heard.
What is one lesson or piece of advice you would like the community to learn from you?
Let’s be open to discussion. Mental health with men, women, and children are so important. A simple question with how are you? Like truly how are you holding up, asking your family, friends, coworkers can go a long way.
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