Rashami Desai's Real Talk: Yoga, Psoriasis And Why She Treats Salt Like A Frenemy
Rashami Desai opens up about her weight struggles, psoriasis journey, and how yoga and diet help her stay strong and balanced.
Television star and reality show personality Rashami Desai, known for her roles in shows like Uttaran and Bigg Boss, has never shied away from discussing her relationship with her body. Over the years, she's been candid about her fluctuating weight and the effort it takes to manage it, especially with the demanding nature of her profession.
Her Wellness Journey Through the Years
Back during her Uttaran days, Rashami successfully shed nearly 10 kilos, a transformation she attributes to a mindful approach to food and fitness. Her transformation wasn't just cosmetic; it was rooted in self-discipline and a deeper understanding of her body.
A Food-First Philosophy
Rashami has always believed in the power of nutrition. 'For me, staying fit is 80% about what I eat and 20% about how much I work out," she said in a conversation with Outlook. Due to her hectic schedule, finding time for workouts isn't always possible, which makes dietary awareness even more crucial. She believes mental control over food choices leads to physical fitness, while movement and exercise help maintain a positive mindset.
In a chat with Telly Masala, the 39-year-old actress mentioned she's far more conscious of her food now. She's reduced her salt intake and follows a clean, balanced diet. Planning meals in advance has become second nature, allowing her to avoid unnecessary indulgence.
Yoga plays a central role in Rashami's fitness lifestyle. She performs Surya Namaskars daily and combines that with a 30-minute walk to stay active and focused. Whenever she has the time, she includes stretching and strength-building exercises into her routine. Her goal, she says, isn't rapid weight loss but achieving strength, flexibility, and mental peace.
Interestingly, a 2024 study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences supports Rashami's approach. The research showed that practicing 45 minutes of Surya Namaskars and heating Pranayama for four weeks helped lower Body Mass Index (BMI) and reduce waist circumference in participants, reinforcing the benefits of ancient Indian wellness techniques.
Battling Psoriasis and Its Impact on Her Body
In a heartfelt interview with Hindustan Times, Rashami opened up about her struggles with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that significantly impacted her weight and confidence.
'I was diagnosed with psoriasis in December last year. It's a condition that can take a long time to manage, and in some cases, it may never fully go away," she shared. For several months, Rashami was on steroid-based medication, which led to noticeable weight gain. 'I wasn't allowed to be in the sun, as it worsens the symptoms. And it flares up with stress—but it's hard not to be stressed when you're in an industry where your appearance is so important."
Despite the emotional and physical challenges, Rashami never allowed her condition to defeat her spirit. She remained committed to living a healthy lifestyle, focusing on nourishment and gentle movement to keep herself balanced and resilient.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that wellness is not just about how you look, it's about understanding your body, honoring its limitations, and showing up with consistency and compassion.
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July 22, 2025, 11:06 IST
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