Our HINU Home series explores the personal connection we have with our hair and the way rituals help bring us back home to ourselves.
Photography by Ben Rayner
"I have been practising hair oiling for some years now, I've learned a lot about it from my South Indian heritage. It's such a beautiful practice and has incredible benefits"
Bella Thomas is an Indian-Australian model, influencer, and creative, living on Gadigal land, though she frequently divides her time between Sydney and Barcelona for work. We spent the morning with her in her cozy Sydney apartment, where she shared insights into her self-care routine, her sharing the rituals that help her stay grounded and balanced amidst her busy, creative life.
What relationship do you have with your hair? Has it evolved over the years?
I have a really nice relationship with my hair, I've learned to love its natural texture more and more over the years. I dyed it once when I was 16 - purple balayage!! Can you imagine?!
Bella is using the Hair Growth Oil.
Hair Protect Pillowcase.
What hair rituals do you currently do?
I have been practising hair oiling for some years now, I've learned a lot about it from my South Indian heritage - it's such a beautiful practice and has incredible benefits! I also give my scalp a good hair massage before and after washing it- it not only feels good but also stimulates healthy hair growth.
Bella is using the Jade Scalp Stimulator.
How does the ritual of hair oiling make you feel?
It's a time where I slow down. I always pair hair oiling with a warm bath and a self lymphatic drainage body massage. I feel both calm and energised after this.
How do you incorporate simple self care practices into your daily life?
I think it's important to look after yourself daily, and it truly is all about the simple things. Making time to move your body, making time to sit on the couch and enjoy a herbal tea at the beginning or end of a day, being present with your skincare / haircare / bodycare, finding moments of meditation throughout your day - I love to meditate while I cook.
Bella is using the Hydrating Mist
BELLA'S HINU HOME PLAYLIST
I. Melodia de Felpa - Frederico Durand
II. Magie Vermeille - Flavien Berger, Pomme
III. Water Music - Roberto Musci
IV. #19 - Aphex Twin
V. Cervial Cedric - Saya Gray
VI. Anjos - Julianna Barwick
VII. A Colour Field - Max Richter