Rubina Chadha
Breathwork Meets Creativity: The Inner Design Approach
Episode 209
Rubina Chadha is a trauma-informed mindfulness educator, breathwork facilitator, and award-winning designer whose work bridges creativity, wellness, and conscious leadership. A graduate of ArtCenter College of Design and UCLA’s Education Certificate Program, she began her career in the entertainment industry before founding Inner Design — a platform that helps high-achieving professionals reconnect with their inner creative voice through breathwork, meditation, and human design.
With over a decade of experience in education and commercial fine arts, Rubina has developed a unique approach to life coaching that combines evidence-based practices with a client-centered focus. She is certified as a Mindfulness Life Coach as well as a Breathwork & Meditation Facilitator. Her work has been featured on major networks including ABC, FOX, NBC, CBS, and CW. Through Inner Design, she offers services such as mindfulness and creativity coaching, creative reset programs, and human design branding sessions, aiming to align individuals with their authentic selves and unlock their full potential.
Rubina’s approach is rooted in the belief that creative expression across art and design can be enhanced through breathwork, mindfulness, and movement. Her programs are designed to increase creativity and flow, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve emotional regulation, focus, and physical health.
Based in the San Gabriel Valley, Rubina continues to inspire others through her work, helping individuals and organizations foster a stronger connection between mind, body, and breath to enable a more embodied and holistic creative process.
Rubina Chadha Takeaways
Photography as a Form of Mindfulness
The guest discusses how photography is inherently a mindful practice. Unlike painters who can create art from memory or sketches, photography captures moments in real-time, necessitating a heightened awareness of the present. This instant connection to the environment fosters a unique mindfulness that can be deeply fulfilling. The guest emphasizes how the act of taking a photograph can be a meditative experience, allowing for an exploration of one’s emotions and thoughts.
The Importance of Community in Creative Expression
The guest highlights the significance of community support for creative individuals. They reflect on their experiences during school and the importance of being surrounded by like-minded peers who accept them as they are. This sense of belonging enables individuals to explore their creativity without fear of judgment, fostering a safe space for self-expression. The guest believes that strong social networks are crucial for maintaining mental health and encouraging artistic growth.
Navigating Cultural Identity
The conversation delves into the guest’s journey of understanding their cultural identity as a first-generation American. Growing up in a diverse community, they initially assimilated into the predominant culture while grappling with their Indian heritage. This journey of self-discovery ultimately led to a deeper appreciation of their roots and the realization that different cultural practices share a common theme of seeking peace and love. The guest’s experience underscores the importance of embracing one’s background to foster personal growth and creativity.
The Role of Mindfulness in Education
The guest emphasizes the integration of mindfulness in educational environments, particularly in arts education. They advocate for teaching young people to be present and aware, which can enhance their creative expression. By introducing mindfulness techniques in the classroom, educators can help students manage stress and anxiety, ultimately leading to more profound artistic outcomes. The guest’s commitment to infusing mindfulness into their teaching reflects their belief in its transformative power for both students and educators.
Personal Growth Through Burnout
The interview touches on the guest’s experience with burnout in the creative industry and its impact on their career trajectory. They articulate how burnout manifested as a disconnect from their passion for photography and creativity. This awareness prompted a significant shift towards education and mindfulness, illustrating the importance of recognizing when a career path no longer serves one’s well-being. The guest’s journey showcases the potential for personal growth and reinvention in the face of challenges.
Embracing Change and New Opportunities
The guest discusses their ability to pivot professionally and personally, highlighting the importance of being open to new experiences. They believe that embracing change can lead to fulfilling paths that align more closely with one’s passions and values. This adaptability underscores the idea that creative individuals can thrive by following their intuition and being receptive to the evolving nature of their interests. The guest’s story serves as an inspiration for others to explore alternative paths when faced with dissatisfaction in their current pursuits.
The Value of Creativity in Daily Life
The guest concludes with an assertion that creativity extends beyond traditional artistic practices and can be found in everyday activities. They encourage people to recognize and cultivate their creative expressions, whether through cooking, organizing, or personal projects. This perspective reinforces the idea that everyone possesses creative potential, and nurturing it can enhance overall well-being and fulfillment. The guest’s insights invite listeners to explore their creativity as a vital aspect of their lives.
Rubina Chadha Quotes
“Photography is the closest to mindfulness because painters can create their art from memory or from sketches and they can build on it over time whereas photography happens in that instant.”
“I prefer to use music to match what I’m feeling.”
“I have an awareness that I’m in this state, right? Like where I maybe didn’t have before.”
“It’s quite amazing to see how powerful the mind is, right, to make us feel certain ways.”
“Our diversity is what makes the SGV great and no matter where you are from in the San Gabriel Valley you will feel welcome.”
“Creativity is really important to you. It’s very important to me.”
“Burnout looks like disconnect.”
“Being aware of what opportunities open up in front, you can just trust yourself.”
“I think everyone is creative. First of all, I don’t just think of artists as creative.”
“Sometimes pushing past yourself can also lead to a disconnect.”
“Parenting is the biggest educator of our life.”
“We don’t realize that all of us as children at some place were kind of shut down.”
“Mindfulness through creativity is a natural expression.”
“I always felt inspired. I always felt inspired.”
“Mindfulness is hugely important and it is like the first step in changing something that you want.”
Show Notes
Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Rubina Chadha
Huntington Library and Gardens
A cherished place for creativity and reflection, the guest values the Huntington for its beauty and educational resources. As a member of the teachers advisory panel, she appreciates its role in enhancing art education and promoting mindfulness among students.
Art Center College of Design
This institution holds significant importance for the guest, having shaped her artistic journey. The environment fosters creativity and collaboration, inspiring her to pursue her passion for photography and design while embracing the challenges of a rigorous education.
Monterey Park
Growing up in Monterey Park instilled a sense of belonging for the guest. The memories of family gatherings and community connections make it a meaningful place in her life, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage and personal history.
