The start of a new year often comes with a lot of noise.
New goals, new habits, new versions of ourselves we are told we should be striving for. But over the years, I have learnt something important: You do not need to become someone else to feel better.
For me, self-care is not about short-term resolutions or unrealistic routines that fade by February. It is about a long-term dedication to your wellbeing including your body, your mind, and your spirit. Built on habits that genuinely support you through every season of life.
Self-care is a commitment, not a resolution.
True self-care does not demand perfection. It invites you to care for yourself a little more intentionally. It asks for presence, consistency, and kindness. It is about tuning in and choosing things that feel good for you, not what is trending or what you think you should be doing.
Some days that might look like movement. Other days, it looks like rest. And sometimes, it is simply about simplifying the things you do every single day, including your skincare regime.
What self-care looks like for me.
My personal approach to self-care has evolved over time, but it always comes back to balance. I try to support my nervous system, my body and my energy in ways that feel sustainable. Here are a few of the rituals I come back to consistently. None of this is about doing everything, all at once. It is about choosing what supports me right now and allowing that to change as needed.
- Daily walks to clear my head and get fresh air.
- Pilates and gym workouts to keep my body strong and mobile.
- Early nights and consistent wind-down routines, especially when life feels busy.
- Bath house visits, saunas, and spas are incredibly grounding for me.
- Tokyo head spas and massages whenever I can fit them in
- A little retail therapy now and then (because joy matters)
- And, of course, trying every matcha hot spot I can find whilst out.
My Favourite Wellness Businesses & Brands
Pilates
Sarah Redmond at Athletica Pilates Tramsheds
Bath House
Reset Wellness Studio Double Bay
Gut health supplements
My routine includes: a probiotic + digestive enzyme in the morning. Followed by digestive enzymes, zinc, and omega-3s with dinner.
Sleeping aids
Herbal sleep tea or journalling.
Travel self-care staples include earplugs and a Luna Lux silk mask.
Massage / Head Spa
I also book acupuncture once a month for stress relief and muscle tension.
Favourite matcha cafés / brands
Matcha is a daily ritual for me, you can follow me here on Instagram: Sydney Matcha Meet Ups (@sydneymatchameets)
Purematcha brand online *Stay tuned for collabs offline and online in 2026 with purematcha
Why simple routines matter.
This philosophy of simplicity and support is exactly what led me to create AMPERNA®.
I have always believed that skincare should work with your skin, not against it.
Overcomplicated routines and harsh actives can do more harm than good, especially for sensitive, acne-prone, or uncomfortable skin.
That is why I am such a strong advocate for a simplistic, effective skincare routine that focuses on long-term skin health.
At AMPERNA®, our postbiotic-infused products are designed to support your skin barrier and skin microbiome, helping your skin become stronger, calmer and more resilient over time.
An effective routine does not need to be complicated. In fact, some of the most powerful changes come from getting the basics right:
- Gentle cleansing
- Barrier-supporting hydration
- Daily protection
- Products that respect your skin’s natural balance
My AMPERNA® Products Picks, Suitable for All Skin Types
Shop some of our AMPERNA® essential products here:
Pro Bio Soothing Day Mineral CC SPF15
This year is not about reinventing yourself. It is about feeling better in your skin. New year. Still you, simply better supported.
Follow me on Instagram for more wellness inspirations including tips while travelling.
