BAINA Bathe
Volume 31.
Yasmin Suteja

Yasmin Suteja is an Australian based photographer, director, and the force behind Culture Machine; a production company dedicated to nurturing young creators. With a distinct perspective shaped by her Balinese and Greek heritage, Yasmin brings a rich cultural depth to her work, expressing diversity through style and story telling.

In this thoughtful introspection, Yasmin shares how bathing is more than just a physical cleanse — it’s an emotional reset, deeply tied to her Balinese heritage.

"For me, bathing is all about cleansing and resetting—not just physically but emotionally too. Growing up with Balinese heritage, I see water as something sacred. Even rain in Bali is viewed as a blessing from the gods, symbolising renewal and purification. That idea, of water washing away negativity and creating space for renewal, really resonates with me."

"I’ve rarely lived in a house with a bath, so my go-to is a warm shower with good water pressure—an absolute must! I’m definitely a double-shower type of person. My morning shower is essential —it’s a wake-up call and a chance to reset before the day begins. My evening shower, on the other hand, is all about winding down and washing away the day’s energy.

I like to set the vibe with incense and music playing on a speaker nearby, whether it’s something mellow or energising, depending on my mood. I’m also mindful about the products I use, avoiding synthetic fragrances and parabens, and sticking to organic, natural options that align with my focus on wellness.

I also try to dry brush before every shower for lymphatic drainage. I’ll often use a gua sha with some facial oil as part of my post-shower routine. These little rituals make the whole experience feel intentional and restorative."

"A fresh, soft towel and bathrobe post bathe elevates my bathing experience. There’s something so luxurious about wrapping myself in a cozy robe after a shower—it’s become part of my routine. I’ll lounge around the house in it while getting ready or winding down for the evening. It’s those little touches that make it feel special."

"bathing is deeply tied to my Balinese heritage. Water holds a strong spiritual significance in Bali—it’s seen as a way to cleanse the body, mind, and spirit and to let go of negativity while restoring balance. Rituals like Melukat, performed at sacred places like Tirta Empul or Taman Beji Griya Waterfall, have inspired how I view bathing. Even in my everyday showers, I try to bring that sense of renewal and mindfulness into the practice.

One of my favourite memories is having a mandi lulur at Cantika Zest in Ubud. It was absolute bliss—a bath filled with flowers in the middle of the jungle. I felt so relaxed, grounded, and connected to nature in that moment."

Yasmin Suteja is an Australian based photographer, director, and the force behind Culture Machine; a production company dedicated to nurturing young creators. With a distinct perspective shaped by her Balinese and Greek heritage, Yasmin brings a rich cultural depth to her work, expressing diversity through style and story telling.