Elle Macpherson says mothering young adult sons is still ‘hands on’

Whilst she’s known for being one of the most famous supermodels of all time and a savvy business woman, Elle Macpherson is also a devoted mum to two fully grown sons.

Whilst licensed pilot, Flynn, 25, divides his time between London, New York and Miami, Cy, 20, is a budding model himself and student at Babson College in the US, known for its focus on entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile Elle’s main venture these days is her popular healthcare brand, WelleCo, which features plant-based, vegan supplements made with superfoods, herbal extracts, vitamins and minerals.

Here the ever-youthful 59-year-old lets us in on motherhood and her quest for healthy ageing.

What does being a mother mean to you? 

For me, it’s the most important thing I do. Obviously, we have a close biological bond, but I also really feel the responsibility to guide and nurture boys who go onto show up as loving, creative, wonderful beings, to see them grow into that. That’s the best gift I can give the world – my very best work.

What’s your parenting style – are you laid-back or strict?

I try and be ‘real’ over laid-back or strict. I tell them what I think, guide them in the best way I know how and don’t pussy-foot around any of it! I’m lovingly real.

How would you describe parenting young adults? Is it more challenging than the early years?

To be honest, I still find myself being hands on. Naturally, while respecting their freedom and independence, we remain close, and they still come to me when they need guidance. Happily, I don’t think that will change with age.

You formed WelleCo nine years ago – was that inspired by how you felt at the time?

Yes, back when I was 50, I began to notice how run down I felt. I was taking a host of vitamins and supplements, but nothing seemed to be working. I was struggling with sleep, my skin was dry and dull, my hair was brittle and I felt unmotivated. I didn’t feel like myself anymore. I wanted answers so I sought the advice of Dr Simone Laubscher PhD, a clinical naturopath, at her Harley Street clinic in London. Simone helped me to better understand my body and its functionality. It turned out inflammation was a severe problem.

Simone blended a custom anti-inflammatory formula for me which ultimately formed the basis of our iconic super-greens mix, The Super Elixir™. Within weeks, my energy surged back, I felt lighter and leaner, and my digestion improved. My hair thickened, my nails were stronger, and my skin was clear and glowing. It was life changing. So much so that I felt an undeniable calling to share it with others, so I launched my brand WelleCo in 2014 with The Super Elixir™.

You’re now in the last year of your 50s – a challenging time health wise for all women. How did that lead you to develop a product for those in peri menopause, menopause and post menopause?

I’ve found there’s a kind of liberation in menopause — a freedom from cyclic responsibilities and uncertainties. It’s a time to fully discover who we are and what we truly love and want in life. Redirecting creativity into realising your personal dreams, this liberation can be one of the most fulfilling times in life.

That’s why The Goddess Elixir was formulated – to support you through this journey. It’s a blend of red clover, agnus castus and Siberian ginseng which supports a healthy mood balance and your nervous system. Taking two capsules daily can help you to awaken your inner goddess.

You have several products aimed at kids – did Cy or Flynn take part in the wellness journey along with you as well?

Yes, particularly Cy, who had a penchant for white foods! He’s much better now, but I also put that down to The Super Kids Elixir + Protein, developed in his honour. I told Simone I was worried about Cy – his blood sugar was all over the place, and he just didn’t look great, so she packed this powder full of fruit, veggies, probiotics, vitamins and minerals. He’s taller than me now!

WelleCo is exhibiting at the Naturally Good healthy living trade event in Sydney on June 5 -6 which showcases food, beverages, homewares, healthcare and beauty products to industry.

You now live in Florida what do you miss the most about Australia? 

The boundless nature! WelleCo is the result of my idyllic Australian childhood spent with the dirt between my toes and the salty sea through my hair. Thankfully, I grew up with plenty of fresh air and sunshine and we were often by the sea, surfing and relaxing in nature.

In those years growing up, I learnt a lot about our natural world. Not only did it set the scene of my childhood, but it ignited in me a lifelong devotion to natural methods. For me, the sun and the sea are medicine. It’s not quite the same in Florida but I plan on visiting soon and reuniting with those idyllic Aussie beaches!