Blog
Behind swollen eyes: Identifying emotional pain (with Viet translation)
Emotional pain can be harder to name than a headache, especially when you weren't given the language for it growing up. Hai Anh explores the connection between body and mind through a Vietnamese-Australian lens, with gentle tools for tuning inward.
You don’t need permission to rest
A blog on growing up with a “rest must be earned” mindset, and the ongoing journey of finding balance between overworking, self-indulgence, and learning to trust that rest is a necessary part of wellbeing.
I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22!
Hai Anh writes a gentle, reflective piece on turning 22 that explores identity, uncertainty, gratitude, and belonging - written for young people navigating culture, growing up, and emotional wellbeing.
New Years Planning and When Things Don’t Go To Plan
A reflection on New Year planning, Lunar New Year, and learning to loosen control. This blog explores how detailed plans can become a safety blanket, the disappointment that comes when things don’t go to plan, and the shift toward setting intentions and trusting yourself instead.
Half-trying a half-triathlon (a 3-part sob story)
In a slightly different blog post than usual - I share reflections on the journey to attempt a (half or sprint) triathlon, exploring how these physical challenges can be a powerful lesson in self‑compassion, resilience, and letting go of perfectionism.
Crying over paper cuts: Reflections on how culture impacts mental health
In this guest blog, Hai Anh reflects on her experience studying psychology in Australia while growing up with a Vietnamese upbringing. She shares how she has learned to bring these cultures together in shaping her holistic view of health and wellbeing, while openly sharing her journey with her family and community.
Saying hi to my whole self, and bye to what I “should” be
What does it mean to truly embrace all parts of your identity, especially when you’ve spent years questioning or rejecting them? In this personal reflection, I share about how accepting my Vietnamese Australian identity helped me feel more grounded, free, and whole — and why gentle curiosity about where you come from can open the door to healing.
What does it mean to “make it”? The pressure to figure out life by 30
The pressure to ‘have it all together’ can be quite stressful and limiting. Society often suggests we should know what we want by a certain age. All this pressure can make it confusing to know what we really want, when we feel like we’re already falling behind.
Navigating mental health professionals: A simple guide
Here’s a brief guide to define the differences between mental health professionals and help you get the right support for you. I share easy definitions of counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, coaches, mental health social workers and therapists to help you on your journey.
Shower-laziness: A lesson in self-kindness (and happy new year)
In this new year, I share a reflection on another take of “new year, new me”. Rather than trying to change our habits, is there a way to change how we talk to ourselves - and choose self-kindness?
Embracing spirituality to boost health
Spirituality is a concept so closely tied to health and well-being, however I’ve noticed a real hesitation for people to open up about it. Let’s explore what spirituality means to each of us, and how deepening this understanding can boost mental health.
My personal journey with therapy: When therapists seek therapy
Here I share my personal experience with therapy, talking through my journey from university counseling to mental health care plans and life coaching. Learn about the importance of being ready to open up, communicate your needs, and find the right therapeutic fit for your healing and growth.

