Actress and mother Kalki Koechlin has always stood out for her honesty and unique approach to life. As a mother to her daughter, Sappho, Kalki is opening up about the realities of parenting—and how moms can still prioritize self-care in creative, manageable ways.
In 2020, amid the COVID-19 lockdowns, Kalki embraced motherhood and navigated parenting in an unusually quiet and secluded environment. This time away from the spotlight allowed her to focus fully on her child without the pressure to “bounce back” or return to work quickly. “There was no urgency to fit into expectations,” she said. “Rest and recovery were my only focus.”
As the world reopened and professional commitments resumed, juggling parenting and work came with its own set of challenges. Kalki found that working from home often blurred the lines between her personal and professional life. Her daughter would want attention during work calls or rehearsals. Instead of resisting, she adapted—her partner would take their child outside with art supplies or games, creating little adventures even in parking spaces, so she could work without guilt.
Another powerful shift she embraced was limiting screen time. Kalki chooses to keep her phone in another room during sleep and uses a simple alarm clock to start her day. I avoid checking my phone until I’ve finished my morning routine. That keeps me centered,” she shared. Even on sets, she entrusts her phone to someone else so she can stay focused and avoid unnecessary digital distractions.
Mental health, she emphasized, plays a huge role in parenting. Kalki believes therapy should be normalized and readily accessible. She shared that she regularly sees a therapist to manage anxiety and stay emotionally balanced. “It’s okay to seek help. Being a parent doesn’t mean you have to do it all alone.”
Kalki also finds fulfillment by giving back. From helping her domestic staff in times of need to staying connected with animal welfare groups, she believes in small, consistent contributions. “Supporting others helps me stay grounded and connected to the community,” she said.
For mothers struggling to find balance, Kalki’s message is clear: small steps matter. Whether it’s a few moments of quiet in the morning, a mindful break during the day, or seeking help when needed—self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant. It just needs to be intentional.
Her journey is a reminder that motherhood doesn’t have to mean self-neglect. With creativity, patience, and support, moms can thrive—not just survive.
