Last year, Stephanie Zubiri decided to devote all her time to focus on nurturing and growing her wellness platform Soulful Feasts. For years, she has worked as an editor and senior writer for Tatler Philippines. The holistic health advocate, podcast host and founder is in her “garden tending” era. She clarifies, “Not literally, but figuratively. I’ve spent the last two years planting the seeds of a life in alignment with my values. I’m so grateful to say that I’m currently beginning to harvest the fruits.”
Her podcast, Soulful Feasts with Stephanie Zubiri, has continuously engaged a growing community of like-minded women. She has also started facilitating intimate, bespoke workshops, which she calls The Soulful Embodiment Practice. “It has been a great success and I continually refine the method with each experience.” The mother of two boys has also recently launched a children’s book celebrating neurodiversity, Chalky the Chameleon. Everyday, creativity, good energy, intention, and purpose fill Stephanie’s life.
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How did you come to find your current career or life’s work?
“I’ve always been creative. Beyond that, I know that I was a natural energy worker and intuitive since I was younger. I just had to go through my own journey of self-discovery to unlock it once more.”
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What is it about your work or career that you enjoy most?
“At the end of each practice, when I see the participants hug themselves and cry, it makes my heart full. It’s like a homecoming for them, a reminder to put themselves first so they can keep pouring back out to their communities. It’s so special. I also really love making meaningful connections through my work as a journalist and podcaster. I feel so fortunate to have these unique experiences that can take me and my family around the world. What a gift.”
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What do you consider to be “hazards of the job?”
“As with any entrepreneur, keeping good boundaries is very important. Otherwise, you risk creative, physical, and emotional burnout.”
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For people who aspire for similar careers, what would be your advice?
“I don’t have a career! I have purpose and passion. I used to self-flagellate that I never had a proper ‘career path.’ I was a chef, TV host, editor, etc. I felt like I couldn’t commit and that it was wrong, until I realized that it was just my nature. I love learning and trying new things and giving birth to new creative projects. Things just flowed when I found my purpose and continue to just align all that I do with it. Alignment is key and the universe will bring you exactly what you need when you need it.”
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How do you balance work and family life? What are activities that enable you to bond with family?
“I do my best to be home for family dinner, five nights out of seven. These evenings are sacred.I love cooking for my kids and Scott. I also dedicate a month each year to our big summer holiday. During these trips, I totally unplug and stay 100% present. We also love board, card, and quiz games. It’s our favorite evening activity.”
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How do you unwind or rewind? Any favorite spots in your current city that you consider your “me-time” haven?
“My solo quiet mornings are sacred. As soon as the children leave for school, I head up to our roof garden with my dogs and a cup of cacao. I sit under the early morning sun, meditate, read or sometimes just be. I cuddle my dog, and listen to the birds. Even if it’s just for 30 minutes, it lights up my soul. I also do regular walks and workouts with friends or with Scott. When I get my major self-care beauty regimen like foot spa, massage, nails, wax, or sauna, I often prefer home service where I can indulge in whatever cheeky guilty pleasure series I’m currently watching.”
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How would you describe your personal style? What are three your wardrobe essentials?
“I definitely lean towards the bohemian flower child vibe and pretty floral French girl aesthetic. I have a lot of what Scott calls “little flower dresses” and ethnic prints. I love color and pieces that tell a story. I also skew sexy though, and embrace my curves. My three essentials would include a silky, floral dress that you can style casual or chic. I also love a pair of jeans that make the butt look great and a sexy, no-fail LBD.”
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What makes for a good investment piece? Kindly cite examples of pieces in your current wardrobe.
“I have a fabulous Ulla Johnson dress that fits me perfectly and always turns heads. It doesn’t matter that the print is so striking. I love it so much I wear it all the time. All my pieces are garments that I love. It doesn’t matter if I rewear them often, because I love them so much.
Good tailoring and construction are key. I also love good shoes. They can make or break an outfit. I have a solidly gorgeous shoe collection. Good shoes shouldn’t just look good, they should also be moulded property to your feet. It’s very tricky to wear cheap heels. They might look good, but they can cause foot deformities or backaches later on.”
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What do pearls mean to you?
Pearls are the embodiment of nature’s magic. It’s a reminder of how life’s challenges and setbacks can be turned into something beautiful.”
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What is everyday luxury for you?
When I manage to have a slow morning, get some work done, call a friend, exercise, eat well,and end the day with my family. When I manage to “do it all” but really the most important for me is snuggling at night with my kids and then with Scott. I wouldn’t replace it for the world.
