Rituals of Care — Joelle Ruckert

Joelle Ruckert is a creative based between Tāmaki Makaurau and Berlin, currently embracing a season of movement, change, and gentle adventure. Rooted in a deep belief in conscious consumption and intentional living, Joelle’s work and worldview are shaped by a desire to move more thoughtfully through the world — in how we care for ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we connect with the environments that hold us.

Growing up among the bush and coastline of West Auckland, nature has always been a place of refuge and recalibration. From childhood walks through native forest to quiet moments of reflection in adulthood, the natural world has remained a steady companion — offering stillness, clarity, and a reminder to slow down. This lifelong connection to the land has informed Joelle’s relationship with mindfulness and wellbeing, where simple, grounded practices become a way of returning to the present moment.

Now living between hemispheres, Joelle carries these rituals of care wherever she goes. Whether navigating a new city or returning home through familiar sensory comforts, she believes wellbeing doesn’t require perfection or long hours set aside — only small, intentional moments woven into everyday life. Through creativity, skincare, and mindful pauses, Joelle explores how rituals can anchor us, especially during times of transition.

In this conversation, Joelle shares her reflections on ritual versus routine, the role of nature in emotional balance, and how even the smallest morning practices can create space for calm and connection in busy lives.

What does “ritual” mean to you, and how is it different from routine?

A ritual speaks of more intentionality to me, it’s a moment taken with more care, slowness and awareness. A routine can be moved through in a sleepy haze, a ritual requires conscious effort and mindfulness. 

How does connecting with nature support your wellbeing? 

I have always used nature as an exhale, a way to be more present and if I ever need a moment of pause. Having grown up in the west Auckland bush, I have always used nature as a way to find moments of peace, from when I was young to adulthood.

How do you weave moments of care into everyday life when time feels limited?

I’m a morning person, so regardless of if I have a long or short day ahead, I use a moment in the mornings to ground and be present for a few breaths. Something about the energy in the mornings fills me up.

How do tahi skincare products support your own rituals of care?

I am currently using my tahi products both morning and night, exclusively. Because I’m also overseas it’s such a lovely moment of reconnecting with home, taking a moment for myself while also taking a moment for my life back in NZ. 

What would you remind someone who feels too busy or overwhelmed to prioritise themselves? 

Their mornings. It’s such a sacred time of the day and even a few deep breaths in the crisp morning air can leave you feeling calmer and more present for the day. It starts your day with intention and a moment of grounding which will always be a win.