Beauty, fashion and food photographer Julia Dunin shares how she balances the running of her new business, Duine, with daily wellness tools.
I wake… shortly after 6am – my toddler is my alarm clock.
The first thing I do every morning is… drink a glass of warm water, often with lemon.
My morning routine is… skincare, porridge, coffee – these are non-negotiables. The rest depends on how the morning unfolds!
I can’t go to work without… an apple or a pear.
The self-care tool I use every day is… breathwork – it helps with stress during the day and is the best thing that allows me to fall asleep within seconds.
The best part of my day is… the stillness of the house after everyone’s gone to bed – 30 minutes just for me.
The most challenging part of my day is… the mid-afternoon slump (usually around 2–3pm). Since I limit myself to one coffee a day, I try to get fresh air or squeeze in a power nap (one of the perks of being my own boss!).
I engage with self-care every day by… surrounding myself with beautiful scents – my favourite cleanser smells like citrus, I use Ground Wellbeing room spray in my office, and add lavender oil to an aroma diffuser in my bedroom.
My daily self-care checklist includes… skincare, time outside, breathwork, staying hydrated, a piece of fruit, and an evening herbal tea.
The quickest, smallest thing I do for myself every day is… smile at the mirror.
I know it’s been a good day if… I didn’t let the stress of running two businesses and having a toddler send me into fight-or-flight mode!
I switch off from work by… connecting with my son and partner through food and play.
Before I go to bed, I… watch an episode of a show with a mask or serum on my face.
After a long work week, I de-stress by…taking a long bath with bath salts and my favourite candle.
My go-to comfort meal is… authentic Japanese ramen.
When I really need a moment to myself, I… head outside – ideally for a walk by the sea or in nature.
Something I try to do for myself every day is… listen to guided meditations or affirmations.
The most reflective moment of my day is… ironically when I’m stuck in morning traffic listening to a podcast – it’s when I get my best ideas and feel most inspired.
The one person, place, or thing guaranteed to give me joy is… Can I pick more than one? Friends, family, great food, Ireland’s stunning beaches, and whatever song I’m currently obsessed with!
I wish I could eat more mindfully… I tend to shovel food down when I’m hungry – I’d love to slow down and savour it more.
Everyone should try… being more present and practising mindfulness.
Photography provided by Julia Dunin.
