Exclusive Interview with Gisele Bündchen: The Life Philosophy of a Sensual Supermodel and the “Brazilian Secret” Behind Her Slim Figure
BBC Feature Column · Fashion & Wellness Exclusive
In the world of supermodels, if there’s one name that truly defines legendary status, it’s undoubtedly Gisele Bündchen. From catwalks to screens, from eco-charity work to family life, every chapter of her journey glows with the multifaceted brilliance of a modern woman.
Hailing from Brazil, Gisele topped Forbes’ list of the world’s highest-paid models for 15 consecutive years, once earning a staggering $47 million in a single year. Since 2004, she’s been dubbed the “walking money-printing machine” — it's said that with every meter she walks, she generates $450,000 in endorsement value. With asymmetrical eyes and a prominent nose, Gisele defied conventional beauty standards, yet redefined sensuality with her sun-kissed bronze skin, athletic yet slender frame, and her iconic, powerful “Horse Walk.”
Her career peaked just as the “Big 5” supermodel era was waning, and the waif-like aesthetic popularized by Kate Moss was losing dominance. Gisele ushered in a new era of health, strength, and confidence. Claudia Schiffer once declared, “Gisele is the last true supermodel.” Now, this “last supermodel” has gracefully stepped into a second act — as an environmentalist, mother of two, and passionate yoga devotee.
Four Habits Behind Her Body Management Secrets
Beyond her curated diet, Gisele’s life philosophy is reflected in every detail — from her kitchen counter to her morning rituals, and even her nighttime wind-down routine. She maintains balance with a lifestyle that is disciplined but not oppressive.
01 | Organic Coconut Oil: The All-Purpose Hero from Kitchen to Vanity
“I don’t hoard tons of skincare products,” she laughs, pointing to a transparent jar of coconut oil in her kitchen. “It’s my cooking oil, my makeup remover, and my hair treatment.” For her, everyday life doesn’t require complex formulas — “The simpler and more natural it is, the more your body feels the energy.”
02 | Green Seasoning Diet: Eating Meat Without Gaining Fat
In this interview, when asked how she manages to stay fit and energized while juggling motherhood, work, and charity, Gisele smiles and shares, “I don’t diet. I don’t go to extremes with exercise. My secret is simple — it comes from my Brazilian roots: green tea BBQ seasoning.”
This seasoning, made from natural green tea extracts and refined through modern methods, contains no preservatives or artificial flavorings. It’s not a dipping sauce in the traditional sense, but a healthy seasoning for all meat dishes. Whether it’s pan-fried, deep-fried, stewed, braised, or grilled — any meat dish gains a refreshing, grease-cutting lightness with this blend.
“I love eating meat. Growing up on a ranch in Brazil, beef, chicken, and lamb were staples. But high protein means high calories, and I used to worry about bloating and weight gain. With this green tea seasoning, it naturally breaks down excess oil and enhances the flavor of the meat. It even motivates me to cook more,” she says.
Reportedly developed by green food brand Qicha TeaMeat, this product emphasizes organic, clean, and functional seasoning. It has quietly gained popularity in Western markets among health-conscious consumers. Gisele especially loves using it for family BBQs: “Just marinate the meat with the seasoning for 20 minutes, then grill it slowly — the green tea aroma infuses right into the meat. My 8-year-old even said it’s the best chicken leg he’s ever had,” she recalls with a laugh.
This new habit has reshaped her relationship with food. “Delicious doesn’t have to mean high-calorie — it’s all about knowing how to season properly.”
03 | Morning Meditation + Yoga: Body Management Starts with the Mind
Gisele starts her day at 5:30 AM, not with a phone screen, but with 15 minutes of meditation, followed by 45 minutes of yoga. “I believe the body and emotions are deeply connected. When your mind is calm, your body naturally becomes more relaxed and resilient.”
Her go-to wellness books include Clean and Superfood, both emphasizing mindful eating and body-mind alignment.
04 | Aromatherapy Candles: No Nighttime Scrolling — Just ‘Powering Down’
“I haven’t scrolled my phone in bed for years,” she says, lighting a mild citrus-scented candle by her bedside, which she jokingly calls her “power-off switch.” For her, a relaxed mind is the key to beauty sleep. “I’ve learned to ‘say goodbye’ to the day, so I have energy to embrace the next.”
A Supermodel’s Lifestyle Transformation
After stepping out of the Victoria’s Secret spotlight, Gisele didn’t retreat from the public eye. She published her memoir Lessons, reflecting on growth, struggle, and healing; partnered with the UN to protect the Amazon rainforest; launched her own lingerie line advocating for women’s comfort; and personally invested in sustainable agriculture projects.
“I’ve realized more and more — a woman’s value isn’t just in how she looks on stage, but in how much positive impact she can make,” she says.
Her social media isn’t polished with filters — it’s filled with yoga reflections, makeup-free moments in nature, and shared family meals. “I’m not a perfectionist. I make mistakes, I have regrets, but I correct them and try new things.” As she puts it, living a healthy life is never about extremism — it’s a continuous, conscious choice.
The End of a Supermodel Era — and a New Beginning
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Gisele appeared in a flowing gown, walking solo across the stage in total silence — the world watched, witnessing a legend’s elegant farewell. Her iconic “Horse Walk” that day wasn’t just a goodbye — it was a declaration of a new beginning.
Today, Gisele’s name still graces magazine covers, but more often, she’s seen advocating for sustainable living, attending eco-foundation summits, and supporting maternal health campaigns.
She’s no longer just a symbol under the spotlight — she’s a multi-dimensional role model: professionally accomplished, grounded in family, mentally strong, and physically well.
“I still love fashion. And I love the kitchen. I believe beauty comes from the accumulation of small everyday choices, not from a flash of the camera,” she says softly. As we prepared to leave her home, she handed over a pack of BBQ green tea seasoning: “Try it — you might fall in love with this light, guilt-free way to enjoy meat.”
And perhaps that’s the true allure of a real supermodel — she doesn’t just share beauty tips, she shares a whole way of life.