11 Questions with Talitha
Talitha, a beautiful soul from New Zealand, currently resides with her husband, and dog in Brooklyn and works as a holistic nutritionist & health coach. The koa code, Kia meaning “joy” in Maori, was created after an awakening following a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, endometriosis, and vulvodynia. You can check her out on instagram @thekoacode.
1. What have you learned most over this quarantine?
Probably just the importance of being connected to other people and having genuine relationships — it’s crucial for health and longevity. Lots of my friends had to leave New York this year (due to losing jobs) and it was really sad. In addition, my study went all online and I started working from home + with places in New York not being open like how they used to be (amongst everything else that happened this year) it was pretty hard and lonely!
2. What wellness practices are helping you through this time?
When I’m stressed, worried, or anxious I experience digestive upset and something that has helped me a lot is doing 5 deep belly breaths before eating lunch. It helps me get grounded during the mid-day hustle and enjoy my meal; which helps my body digest food better. :)
3. What is the best self-care advice you have received that you now incorporate in your routine?
Sleep!!! It’s worth more than thousands of $$$ spent on supplements. Good quality sleep is a game changer for optimal health + it’s free! Most night’s I’m asleep by 10pm now which is a big shift for me!
4. What hair/skincare products have changed your life at this moment?
I’m loving the Act and Acre Shampoo and Conditioner! It’s non-toxic and vegan and I’ve had it on subscription basis all year which is life-changing being one less thing to worry about each month. I just discovered the Ursa Major Golden Hour Recovery Cream for skin and I’ve been using it as a night cream — I love the ingredients and how it’s rich and hydrating + also vegan! ;) Earlier today, I placed an order for personalized skin-care from @Haldiskin and some products from @crownaffair which I’m looking forward to trying!
5. What color do you wear when you want to feel empowered?
Black! And red polish on my nails! I use shade No.15 from @sundays_studio.
6. What do you look most forward to?
The season of being a mama. I can’t wait! (It’s been a long road and I have endometriosis which has made the process difficult.)
7. Where in nature do you feel the most centered?
The ocean.
8. What is bringing you joy right now?
Basically any time I get to spend with my husband and dog. hehe. Recently we rented a car and drove to an outdoor movie theatre in Jersey, it was so fun! Expanding and organizing my home apothecary brings me so much joy lately!
9. What is your favorite meal of all time?
I’m really loving vegan enchiladas lately, but I miss my mother-in-law’s pumpkin curry, that was a favorite! Hmm, there’s way too much to choose from. I have many favorite meals and as a holistic nutritionist I appreciate all delicious and nourishing food made with the energy of love!
10. What could improve the balance of your life?
For me, more fun times and laughter with friends!!! All of my family live overseas, so I’d like to nourish the quality of relationships with my friends here in NYC. I see more activities like home-cooked dinner’s + weekend getaway’s upstate bringing more balance to my life!