Yuki Zhao’s Guide To Wellness At Home

It goes without saying that there’s a lot of uncertainty in our current climate; many people are experiencing changes to their everyday routines, and are staying at home more than they’re used to. But this is not the time to feel anxious and overwhelmed. We can make social distancing a positive, by taking the time to focus on our health and wellness. You can come up with a daily self-care routine, whatever works for you to adjust to the new norm. We speak to Yuki Zhao (@mercuryyuki), a Toronto-based fashion blogger and entrepreneur, for some simple ways to maintain wellness and manage anxiety while staying in.

Yuki’s Skincare Routine
The 28-year-old’s regular skincare routine consists of doing gua sha in the morning with a face oil, an exfoliating treatment every few days, as well as a face mask every two days. Her current favourite skincare product? The Dior Capture Totale C.E.L.L. ENERGY Super Potent Serum (SGD184), an anti-aging serum enriched with an exclusive hyaluronic acid, perfect for Yuki’s dry-combination skin.

Yuki also makes time to do DIY beauty rituals: milk for her hands, and cucumbers for the face, to lock in hydration. She’s always been committed to skincare; “In university, I started learning more about why skincare is very important,” says the founder of Toronto SNAP, a creative marketing agency that connects brands with the Chinese-Canadian community. “From then on, I started finding out more about my skin, and also what type of products are right for me.”
Yuki’s skincare tip: “Do gua sha; it enhances any beauty ritual by promoting the lifting and smoothing of the skin, leaving the face lifted and radiant after use.”
Yuki’s Wellness Routine

Yuki has managed to stay productive, even with the prospect of being home for an indefinite period of time. “I’ve been reading a book every week, learning yoga, meditating for at least 15 minutes. I clean my studio and working space, then make a healthy meal for myself,” says Yuki. “Sleep is also very important. Get ample sleep; maintaining regular sleep habits is important to feel refreshed.”
When asked on tips to relax and ease stress: “Make herbal tea,” suggests Yuki. “Mix 1 part lemon, 1 part ginger, and 2 parts chamomile in a small bowl. It really soothes while nourishing your skin.”
“You can take a bath, too, and I like lighting up my scented candles. It calms me.”

Yuki’s Beauty Picks
Tom Ford Beauty Hyaluronic Energising Mist, SGD86
Tom Ford Beauty Shade And Illuminate Soft Radiance Foundation SPF 50/PA++++, SGD200
Chanel La Palette Sourcils de Chanel Brow Powder Duo, SGD77
Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray, SGD62
Chanel Le Volume Revolution De Mascara, SGD61.95