This is by far my favourite little segment of the blog. I find this series so freakin’ motivational and transformative and I have absolutely loved having getting to know these ‘Inspiring Souls’ a little more.
Today I’d like to introduce you to Billi. This lady is an absolute inspiration and soul-spiration. She has done a complete 180 and overhaul of her health and lifestyle and has the rig to prove it! Her instagram account is overflowing with gorgeous images that perfectly encapsulate this healthy girl’s approach to life and her incredible mission to spread the health and wellness message far and wide. It is an absolute pleasure to share with you all the incredible Billi Jane…
1. Describe your health approach in three words.
Patient, consistent & open-minded.
2. How did you gain your ‘health nut’ status? (What led to your decision to choose this lifestyle?).
My trip to Europe in June 2012 put things into perspective for me. When I returned I didn’t want to continue getting drunk every weekend It was time to grow up and treat my body right. I was unhappy in my job and looking for a passion. I did some meditation at the time, the universe was encouraging me to experience new beginnings, and I strongly believe this guided me into the right direction. I had always worked hard in the gym but was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired and I just couldn’t figure out why I wasn’t seeing results mentally and physically. I woke up one morning and it was like I had an epiphany and knew what I had to do with regards to diet and I just did it, I went to the shop and bought clean food. I personally believe the ultimate goal in life is to be happy and accepting of oneself and when I had finally found that there was no way I was keeping it a secret! Instagram definitely helped gain the health nut status, I have such a wonderful network of people who inspire me every day!
3. What is the most over used ingredient in your kitchen?
I would go through chicken and oats the most. I would also eat dates all day every day if I could!
4. What have been the greatest challenges for you in your quest for total health?
I think the greatest challenge has been family being concerned and not understanding why I have changed. Also friends not supporting me and talking behind my back and not accepting that this is what I want to do and that I have changed my life for the better. But at the end of the day you can’t please everyone, you have to follow your dreams and the people who matter will support you.
5. Who are your greatest influences and inspirations?
My boyfriend inspires me a lot. He is very passionate and dedicated to his hobbies and he was the one that said if you want something it’s not going to appear, you have to go and get it and make it happen. Lorna Jane inspires me, not just for her gym clothes but her approach to health and wellbeing through her Move Nourish Believe Philosophy and her health advocates such as Laura Rixon and Essena O’Neill. Also my friends on instagram inspire me, I see people achieving their goals every single day and it’s puts a smile on my face to be a part of their journey.
6. What has been your most radical change?
I feel like my most radical change was losing the hair extensions, fake nails and tan. I thought I could never live without them now I can’t even imagine having them. A full head of 22 inch extensions are heavy to run with and takes about 2 hours to wash blow dry and straighten there is no way I have time for that now haha. Now my hair and nails and skin are better than they have ever been!
7. What would be your ‘recipe for success’?
My recipe for success would be – 1. To research everything yourself. There are so many debatable statements made with regards to fitness and nutrition and I think it comes down to the fact that everyone is different. We have different body types and dietary requirements and we process foods differently. It important to do your own research and find what fits you. Understand why you are doing something and how it will show results rather than doing something because someone says you will lose weight. 2. Find a way of exercising which you enjoy so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Have fun and try new things, routine is the enemy. 3. Surround yourself with a network of positive people on the same journey as you. You will have bad days and you will get discouraged at some point, these people will help you more than you know. This is why I love instagram 🙂
8. Describe your perfect day.
My perfect day would include working out first thing (weights!), no matter how tired and unmotivated I feel when I get up, after splashing my face with cold water and sweating it out for 45 minutes I feel 100% positive and happy! Food shopping is also enjoyable for me, I love being in control of what I am going to eat for the next week and choosing fresh clean ingredients to cook new and favourite recipes with, its therapeutic and filling the fridge is so satisfying to me 🙂 Ultimately the perfect day is to remain positive no matter what life throws at me. I have days where I get rained on and people are rude on the train but with a positive mind, no amount of negative circumstances can upset me. The way fitness develops your mental strength is the biggest reward. Clarity is the best way to describe it!
9. What are your words to live by?
9. What are your words to live by?
I could write a whole list but I think one that I have learnt that is most important in living a happy fulfilling life is – “To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself” Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Buddhist Monk. Any Buddhist quotes fill me with joy.
10. Message for the wannabe wellies?
10. Message for the wannabe wellies?
KEEP GOING! No matter how many times you slip up, eat chocolate or miss a workout. It is the journey more than the destination. Have fun and don’t be too hard on yourself. Try new things, variety is the spice of life JDon’t focus on skinny, focus on healthy and block all negativity from others. Remember why you started and do it for yourself.
Blessings and gratitude for this week’s inspiring soul x
I really like this post! Love interviews 🙂
I lovvve this series too! Glad you enjoyed! More to come 🙂