By Shruti Menon Seeboo
On the 10th of March, Nouvelle Usine in Floreal became a sanctuary for approximately 40 women seeking empowerment, expression, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Organised by the dedicated team of nutritionists, clinical psychologists, and health and fitness coaches from LetsBe, this International Women’s Day event transcended typical celebrations, offering a transformative experience centred on self-discovery and holistic well-being.
The event commenced with an insightful opening speech by Sanjana Gobin Rambhojun, a Clinical Psychologist at LetsBe. She emphasised the event’s unique approach, moving beyond mere discussions to provide tangible tools for self-understanding. “Today, we are creating an experience that goes beyond simply sitting and talking about Women’s Day or discussing how we can eventually create change,” she stated. “The approach is different—we are starting small, giving you tools that you can continue using long after this event.” Sanjana underscored the importance of fostering a better relationship with oneself—physically, mentally, and emotionally—inviting active participation and open dialogue from all attendees, including the men present, who were encouraged to deepen their understanding of the women in their lives.
Darshana Sooknundun, Dietician at LetsBe, followed with a thought-provoking discourse on societal constraints and the importance of breaking free from restrictive norms. She challenged the audience to question whether the problem lies within individuals or the system itself, advocating for a shift from fighting to listening. Darshana introduced the concept of “eating like a woman and living like a rat,” a metaphor designed to challenge deeply ingrained societal norms surrounding food and behaviour. She addressed the common struggle of food restriction, highlighting how the act of restricting often intensifies cravings. “The key is to understand that balance is essential, and there is room for everything in your diet,” she explained, emphasising the importance of mindful eating and acknowledging emotional eating as a natural response.
To further explore this concept, Darshana along with Manupriya Appadu, Clinical Psychologist at LetsBe, collaboratively guided the attendees through a mindful eating exercise. Manupriya underscored the significance of slowing down and appreciating the present moment, drawing parallels between mindful walking and mindful eating. She then transitioned to a crucial topic: body standards and their impact on self-perception. “How many times, especially as women, have we been told that our bodies are too big, too small, too much of one thing and not enough of another?” she asked, challenging the audience to shift towards a kinder, more compassionate view of themselves.
A powerful exercise followed, where participants were asked to look at themselves through their phone cameras without filters, observing their reflections with appreciation rather than criticism. This exercise aimed to dismantle internalised beauty standards and foster self-acceptance. “This is about shifting your perspective, seeing yourself in a new light, and letting go of the unnecessary pressures imposed by beauty standards,” Manupriya explained. She highlighted the distinction between changeable and unchangeable aspects of oneself, encouraging a focus on self-care and kindness.
Shreeya Bokhoree, Miss Earth Mauritius 2024, shared her experiences, offering a unique perspective on beauty and self-perception. She emphasised that pageantry is not merely about external beauty but also about intelligence, confidence, and personal growth. Shreeya revealed that even those perceived as “ideal” struggle with insecurities, highlighting the universal nature of self-doubt. “We are often our own harshest critics, exaggerating flaws that others may not even notice,” she noted. She advocated for self-acceptance and appreciation, encouraging women to value themselves as they value others.
The event also incorporated physical activity, with Ashna Putteeraj Babajee, a Fitness Coach at LetsBe, leading the women through warm-up exercises. “Physical activity is a powerful tool for self-empowerment,” Ashna stated. “It’s not just about building physical strength; it’s about cultivating mental resilience and a positive relationship with our bodies.” This integrated approach underscored the importance of physical well-being alongside mental and emotional health.
Throughout the event, the LetsBe team fostered an environment of openness and support, encouraging attendees to ask questions, share their thoughts, and engage in meaningful discussions. The emphasis on interactive experiences, practical tools, and personal reflection created a lasting impact, empowering the women to embrace their individuality and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves.
The International Women’s Day event at Nouvelle Usine was not just a celebration; it was a catalyst for transformation. By addressing societal pressures, promoting self-acceptance, and providing practical tools for self-care, LetsBe empowered women to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This event served as a reminder that true empowerment comes from within, from embracing one’s authentic self and fostering a compassionate relationship with oneself.
