Spectacular Soul Saturday: Simone Butchard

Meet my honorary ‘big sis’ Simo! A ray of  sunshine who lives according to my favourite proverb;

“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared” – Attributed to the Buddha (c.563 BC – c.483 BC)

After finishing reading her candid and optimistic answers you’ll likely feel driven to check out her website which is bursting full of life – the biophilia practically jumps through your screen!

I’m near certain you’ll love her as much as I do,

Meet Simo …

Where did your open-minded adventure begin? Was there a significant event that shifted you into gear, or did your outlook on life simply shift over time?

I think it was fairly gradual in the sense that I have always been interested in health and empowering myself to feel the best I possibly can.  For as long I as I can remember, I have battled with digestive issues (chronic constipation) and waves of anxiety / depression which meant I was always on the look out for the next best diet or research to try and compensate.

My health journey has ultimately led me on a path to empowerment, with each chapter being a stepping-stone to the next.  There have been many ups and downs, lots of a’has and challenges,  but in the end I am grateful for everything I have gone through because it has led me to where I am today – YAY!!

One significant moment in my life, that stands out above the rest, was when I stumbled across the oh-so-amazing Jess Ainscough. I was in total awe and still to this day I haven’t met anyone else quite like her. Her words, her spirit and her soul absolutely oozed from her page and she inspired me to take action and start to live the life of my dreams.

What drives your enthusiasm for self-care and optimism?

My highest value is health and nurturing my family. I know that if I nourish myself with plenty of rest, healthy food and self-care, then I will have the strength and energy I need to look after the ones I love. Family motivates everything and I cherish these rich, deep and fulfilling relationships so very much.

What keeps you goofy and ‘down to earth’?

Definitely my adorable bundle-of-golden-fluff – Bowie!! aka the cutest puppy in the history of the world ha ha.

In my quest to create a life I love, I was sure to schedule in some down time spent enjoying nature, the sunshine and life’s simple pleasures with my little four-legged friend.  I am all about living gently and appreciating the small things that our wonderful Mother Nature has to offer.

How do you keep exercise FUN?

I am a HUGE fan of yoga!! It is my all-time-favourite and I wouldn’t be Simo without it!! I also love running and playing with my pooch, riding my bike and playing touch footy!! Anything outdoorsy is right up my alley so hiking in the bush, surfing the gnarly white wash (he he) and climbing mountains to meet the sunrise is what I am talking about!!

When it comes to nutrition, what is your philosophy?

Nourishment starts from the inside out. For us to feel happy and healthy on the outside we need to make sure our food, skin and thoughts are as clean as possible. My food philosophy is all about the J.E.R.F (just eat real food) and S.L.OW. (seasonal, local, organic and whole). If you follow these in my opinion you can’t go wrong – yew!!

How do you overcome limiting thoughts and rationalize negativity?

This too shall pass…

On those flat days when I feel unwanted thoughts creeping in, I remind myself that I am human, I am an emotional creature and its completely ok and safe to feel whatever emotion is presenting itself…even it is butt ugly he he

I find comfort knowing that the sun will rise again and that tomorrow is just around the corner. With each new day there is a new opportunity for more positive feelings, growth and a new beginning. Negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, sadness and anger are a part of life and if we didn’t have these than how would we be able to truly experience the sensation of joy, happiness, love and peace? It is all about trusting the process of life and understanding that we require balance to make the world go round.

Easier said than done sometimes I might add – eeekk!!

Another biggie is practicing gratitude and being grateful for what we have rather than what we don’t have. My husband Willis and I like to chat about the things that went well for us that day as a little ritual before we hit the hay at night. We absolutely love it and find it works a treat!!

And if all else fails, I head on over to Instagram land and immerse myself in inspiring quotes and images. Big love to you all my IG buddies J

Go ahead, inspire us!

Be kind always…to yourself, to others and to the planet

Think fast, what are you grateful for right now?

1. My husband Willis and my puppy Bowie

2. My delicious, nourishing breakfast of eggs, avocado, sauerkraut and greens #myrocketfuel

3. My beautiful big home, garden and sanctuary where I feel safe, calm and secure

4. My sensitivity – because without it I wouldn’t have met the most wonderful, gorgeous souls that have come into my life and enriched it so very deeply…I am looking at you fellow sparklers he he

5. Essential oils- the power of these beauties still blows me away. Where have you been all my life??

Make me Drool!

Introducing World Famous Almond Chia Bread.  It isn’t my own creation but I know Tania would love me to spread the love. It is seriously sooooo good that I feel I MUST pass it on!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!!

Simo bread

Infinite Love & Gratitude

Simo xxx