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They say don’t meet your heroes. But in the years that I’ve contributed to this column, I’ve encountered countless women who exude the same inspiring energy in person as they do online. Founders, thought leaders, CEOs, and creative directors whose behind-the-scenes realness matches exactly what you’d hope for. And that’s certainly the case with wellness entrepreneur and creator, Sanne Vloet.
Previously a Victoria’s Secret model, Sanne has shifted her focus to the world of wellness. Now, her resume reads like that of someone transforming the industry—because that’s exactly what Sanne is busy doing every day. She’s the founder of the fitness brand Soul Sync Body, connecting her community with empowering, low-impact movement. When she’s not filming workouts or teaching classes, Sanne’s working on Nekohama, the matcha brand she co-founded with her husband, Max. And she’s sharing daily inspiration with her 900K+ followers on Instagram, where you’ll find vibrant recipes and healthy habits that yes—will change your life.
Sanne Vloet Shares Her Intentional Morning Routine
When our team visited Sanne at her LA home last month, we were greeted with the expected weekday morning traffic. And though we arrived a few minutes late, harried and apologetic, Sanne welcomed us with an open-hearted warmth. Not only did we feel at home, but she made us each feel special—approaching our conversations with genuine interest. Though her talents and accolades garner awe, it’s Sanne’s presence that you remember long after you’ve met.
This observation is consistent with how she’s built her life. It’s one of evident beauty and intention, displayed through her minimalist aesthetic that prioritizes objects of sentimental significance. But it’s an energy that goes beyond the material, extending to her creative interests as well.
Take Sanne’s passion for food. She crafts nourishing meals and joy-inducing recipes, while also focusing on ingredients that help her feel her best. What’s more, Sanne loves sharing these gifts with others. She taught us how to make the perfect matcha, spilled the secrets to her protein-packed chia pudding (more on that below), and passed around squares of Nekohama’s insanely delicious matcha chocolate bars. Of course, we ate it all up.
But what’s most inspiring of all, is Sanne’s orientation toward gratitude. She’s able to embrace the full spectrum of emotions—while still leaning toward the sunny side of life. Ahead, discover the rituals and routines that keep Sanne grounded and aligned. Don’t worry, we’ve taken notes for you.
Tell us about your career and starting a business. What has life been like as an entrepreneur?
I always knew I wanted to do something for myself but wasn’t quite sure what. After finishing high school, I gave my modeling career a go, and after one year in Paris, it took off. At 18, I was traveling around the world, participating in numerous campaigns, editorials, and runways. I learned a lot during those years, working on set, being behind significant productions, and collaborating with various people.
However, after a few years, I began to notice that this wasn’t something I wanted to do forever. I felt uninspired on set, couldn’t express my creativity, and the intense travel and solitude became overwhelming. Starting my own business was always a dream of mine. When I began my YouTube channel in 2017, I shared all aspects of my life, including recipes, skincare, lifestyle, and fashion. Health and wellness were integral to my daily modeling life, but I enjoyed delving deeper into understanding it.
Witnessing many young girls around me struggling with their health and mental well-being, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, inspired me to start my businesses, Nekohama Matcha, which I run with my husband, and Soul Sync Body, my wellness platform. I had no prior business experience, but I learned everything along the way. I believe the most crucial aspect of being an entrepreneur is not being afraid to try things out and constantly improving. Nothing is perfect from the beginning! I’ve truly enjoyed sharing my passion for fitness and nutrition with others, hoping to inspire them.
What has been your biggest learning over the past year?
Delegating and relying on my team were significant learning lessons. It’s funny, I’m not a perfectionist at all, but when it comes to my business, I tend to be one! This year, I’ve learned to hire a team and allow them to assist. This has really helped me find a better balance between work and life. I’ve learned to be more present when I’m with my loved ones or to do things outside of work that fulfill me.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I usually wake up around 6:30 a.m. and will do my morning routine, including tongue scraping, brushing my teeth, and a quick skincare routine. After making a cup of tea, I take five minutes to journal my thoughts. Following this, I will do a 10-minute priming meditation/gratitude practice by Tony Robbins, which shifts my body and mind into a positive mindset.
Taking this phone-free, quiet time in the morning is crucial for me. Then, I incorporate a workout to move my body before the workday, whether it’s a Pilates session, a stretch with a foam roller, or a strength workout. After a cold shower, I make breakfast around 8:30/9 a.m., and my day begins!
What time is your wake-up call?
I usually wake up around 6:30 a.m., but it depends on the day. I take my sleep very seriously, aiming for at least 8 hours. If I go to bed later than 10 p.m., I’ll wake up a little later. I’ve noticed that I am much more clear and energized throughout the day with adequate sleep. I love tracking my sleep with my Oura ring and my alarm is my vibrating mattress by Eight Sleep.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
The first thing I do is kiss my husband good morning and give a little cuddle to my dog Katsu, who patiently waits next to my bed when I wake up.
What rituals set you up for success?
Pre-workout, I always make sure to foam roll, a habit I started a few years ago that has been a game-changer. It reduces stiffness, aligns my body, and helps maintain proper form during exercise. Wearing a cute workout outfit sets me up for success.
Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.
I wash my face with the Amino Cleanser from Allies of Skin, a gentle gel cleanser that I love. I keep my skincare routine simple, especially in the morning. I spray my face with Avene mineral water, add some hyaluronic serum from Dr. Barbara Sturm for extra hydration, and use Allies of Skin daily moisturizer. Sunscreen is a must—I love the one from Summer Fridays. It feels light and doesn’t make my face greasy.
For makeup, I use a light layer of Ilia foundation, Kosas concealer, Saie bronzer, Pat Mcgrath blush (in peach lotus), Atelier Westman for highlighter (in classy golden peach), Refy lipliner (in blush), Rhode lip peptide, and I switch between Maybelline and Gucci mascara.
What do you eat for breakfast?
I love a savory breakfast with protein. It helps me stay full and energized and balances my blood sugar levels. As it’s winter, I’ve been enjoying adding squash to my diet. A typical winter plate includes eggs, cottage cheese, avocado, and squash. I share many healthy breakfast ideas on my app, Soul Sync Body.
What will we always find in your refrigerator?
You’ll always find Nekohama matcha powder (stored in the fridge to remain fresh), almond milk, eggs, dark chocolate, and probably a couple of spreads like hummus or a veggie dip. My fridge is usually very full of produce!
What are your morning rituals?
A five-minute meditation, journaling, and making my morning matcha are part of my daily ritual. Making matcha is a true ritual for me; I love the mindful process.
What are your favorite books?
I must be honest, I haven’t been reading much this year, but I did enjoy Atomic Habits by James Clear last year and have been implementing a lot of his teachings. Reading more is a 2024 resolution!
How would you describe your personal style?
Elegant, neutral, timeless, and comfortable.
What’s always on your nightstand?
My phone and my Stanley cup with water are essentials. I bring that bottle everywhere with me. Besides that, I like to keep the bedroom clutter-free.
What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?
I usually listen to a playlist called “Coffee House” on Spotify.
Do you work out in the morning?
Yes! I work out five times a week. It’s my favorite way to start the day. I either do a Pilates or strength workout from my wellness app, Soul Sync Body. Sometimes I do this in the gym or at home, and it usually takes me about 45 minutes.
What’s your daily uniform?
You can often find me in workout clothing! Some of my favorite brands are Alo and L’ore from Bandier. My go-to sneakers are from the brand Mercer Amsterdam. If I’m not wearing workout outfits, you’ll often see me in a good pair of jeans, a T-shirt, and a blazer or a comfy sweater or blazer.
Being tall, I love the jeans from Khaite. They are long and worth the investment because they last a long time. For basic tees, I reach for Re/Done or Cuts shirts, and for blazers, I like the oversized styles from Frankie Shop. I probably have the same blazer style in four different colors. I am such a golden jewelry girl so I will add some chunky earrings from Heaven Mayhem.
If you had one extra hour every morning, how would you use it?
I would take my dog for a hike or a long beach walk. I sometimes take him to the beach early in the morning for 20 minutes, but an hour would be amazing.
What are one or two things you do every day to live a more joyful life?
I take my dog for a long walk and listen to a podcast. I enjoy this time by moving my body and listening to something inspiring or educational that brings me joy.
My husband and I sometimes have coffee or matcha together in the morning, driving somewhere or making it at home. I cherish these moments when we can sit and chat before our day starts, finding little micro-moments to spend together in your relationship is so important to me.
Sentence Finishers:
I never leave the house without: my phone and Rhode lipgloss.
If there were more hours in the day, I would: probably sleep.
Healthiest morning habit: not looking at messages and email when I first wake up.
Worst morning habit: having caffeine less than 30 minutes after I wake up.
One thing I want to be known for is: being a positive and kind person.
The one thing I fear the most: not being able to spend enough time with loved ones.
When I feel that fear, I: meet up or organize a fun activity together.
One trait you need to succeed in life is: have a growth mindset.
Bath or shower? Shower.
Favorite shower/bath product: Alo Mindful Magnesium Bath Soak.
