A model’s day-to-day is truly life in the fast lane. And even though it may seem all glitz and glam, industry veterans know it can sometimes be a less-than-posh lifestyle. Only after go-sees, rehearsals, and photoshoots do the stars of the show get to rest…before waking up and doing it all over again. The life of a showgirl never really slows down, so it’s essential to learn to roll with the punches — and bake in some personal time for wellness.
Toni Garrn is a prime example of what it looks like to balance it all — from fitting appointments to fundraising engagements to jet-setting draped in her go-to ALO set — while still making everything look easy. The German model, founder, and philanthropist first made a name for herself when she was discovered during the 2006 FIFA World Cup at the budding age of 13. While other kids were prepping for tests or pushing boundaries like defiant teens usually do, Toni was using the catwalk as her playground. At just 15, she became an exclusive runway and campaign model for Calvin Klein, and never looked back.
The list of major shows she’s checked off her bucket list sounds like the directory for a luxury shopping center. From Prada to Dior to Chanel, she’s done it all. Toni even gained her wings, walking in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show not once, not twice, but four times. Oh, and she did all of this by the time she was 25.
After so much time and energy spent, it’s safe to say that she could use a little break, and that’s exactly what her wellness practice has evolved to prioritize these days. “Every day, I think about how I can take at least an hour to myself,” she says. “Whether it's in a spa or a gym or just at home stretching. It’s important that I carve that time out.”
Toni jokes that her routine in those early days consisted of two things: sleep and water. But now that she’s also taken on the title of mother (literally and figuratively) and continues to pursue her career, the established supermodel relies on structured time for recovery, turning it into a daily practice rather than a one-off impulse.
Included in her habits, Toni mentions a few tips and tricks like lymphatic massages and cryotherapy as ways she likes to reset herself. And with still such a demanding travel schedule, she tries to find pockets of peace wherever she goes.
This past week, she headed out to Berlin for the opening of ALO’s new flagship store — and though the city is typically known for its underground club and techno scenes, she’s become very familiar with a few go-to spots for a bit of R&R.
Between the action, we sat down with Toni to dig into her personal health hacks and what Berlin’s wellness scene really looks like.
What’s One of Your Unexpected Wellness Hacks?
“Ice baths or ice cubes on the face. It honestly changes my mood, the way I look, and the way I feel within 10 minutes.”
What’s Your Favorite Cafe or Restaurant to Recharge in Berlin?
“I stumbled on it while I was trying to find the best matcha in the city, and it's not far from my house. The vibe of the space is what makes it special to me. My go-to order is a salted vanilla bean matcha — iced or hot depending on how I’m feeling.”
What’s One Area of Your Wellness Practice You're Working On?
“I’m trying to improve my quiet self-care. More journaling. More meditating. When I have time to do it, it always helps me slow down and really reset.”
What’s a Berlin Spot You've Been Gatekeeping?
“It's a small sushi bar, and it's my go-to on a night out. I always recommend it for date night. The quality is incredible. It has tori and handrolls, both my favorites. This is the first interview that I’ve mentioned it in, because I don't want it to explode so that I can still get my spot at the bar.”
What’s One Piece of Wellness Advice You Like to Follow?
“It’s simple: just breathe. It really alters everything. Breathing exercises are a huge one for me. At first, you don’t think about how important it is for relaxation and recovery, but it affects everything. Even a few breaths before you speak can change what you say or how you say it.”
Where Do You Go to Break a Good Sweat While in Berlin?
Barry’s or BeCycle
“During my training times for Victoria's Secret, I discovered strength training, and I preferred it much more. I saw my body change much quicker. I enjoy how effective it is, and I actually feel really strong. It strengthens my abs and arms the quickest.”
