“For most of history, Anonymous was a woman.” ~ Virginia Woolf. On this International Women’s Day, GlobalSpa recognizes and celebrates the women in the industry as we delve into their success mantra they follow, mistakes that have helped them grow, and of course, their WELLNESS philosophy.

Riya Rastogi is the CEO at Narmadeshwari, a social enterprise, which aims to empower the most socio-economic backward communities of Asia.

What is your wellness philosophy?

Wellness goes beyond nutrition and physical exercise. Holistic well-being means doing small things for yourself everyday. This includes taking your vitamins daily, pursuing hobbies and focusing on skin/ hair care.

Your success mantra?

Empower yourself in a completely fearless, selfless and egoless manner to empower others. If you empower yourself economically, socially, intellectually and spiritually without being egoistic about your empowerment and simultaneously using your resources to uplift others – nothing can stop you from moving forward.

A lesson you learned from making a mistake?

Do not dwell on your mistakes. If your larger spiritual purpose is to make a difference then keep moving forward as self-doubt is a manifestation of ego.

Any piece of advice for all the women out there?

Form an extremely strong network of women, a sisterhood and keep all the women in your life very close. Keep collaborating in your personal and professional lives without being competitive with other women. This sisterhood will be your true strength.

What has been your biggest pride as a doyenne?

My biggest pride is that my work has helped empower the most vulnerable and disenfranchised tribal/ rural women of our nation economically, socially, politically and culturally.