Barefoot Medicine was founded by Simone Buehner, whose journey into functional medicine and natural health is rooted in a deeply personal tragedy and a lifelong calling to transform healthcare. Simone’s path took a pivotal turn following the heartbreaking full-term stillbirth of her son in 2001, preceded by a miscarriage in 2000. Working in the corporate world at the time, she experienced severe health challenges during her pregnancy, including debilitating hyperemesis and frequent fainting, yet felt consistently unheard by the medical system. Despite expressing concerns and experiencing alarming symptoms, her needs were not adequately addressed, tragically culminating in an avoidable retro-placental abruption. This profound loss, stemming directly from a system that failed to listen and treat her as an individual, illuminated a critical gap in conventional medicine. While often miraculous for acute issues, it frequently falls short in truly hearing the patient, addressing the human experience of illness, and tackling the root causes of long-term chronic health problems. This tragedy became the catalyst for transformation. Simone realized that had she not experienced such a profound loss, she would never have found the courage to leave the financial comfort of the corporate world and embark on a career dedicated to natural healthcare. Driven by a fierce desire for a different approach – one that truly heard the patient and addressed root causes – she resigned from her job to follow her heart, beginning her extensive studies in acupuncture and herbalism.

It was only after making this pivotal decision that Simone connected with her father, whom she had recently traced but never met. Sharing her passion for herbalism and her anxieties about her studies, she was met with a surprising revelation: her Great Grandmother had been a respected Medicine Woman in Jamaica, living to 114 and sought after even by doctors. Her father’s words, “don’t worry, it was in your blood,” became a powerful affirmation. This discovery solidified Simone’s belief that for true health and fulfillment, we must listen to our inner wisdom and follow our authentic path, no matter how unconventional it may seem. It underscored for her how trauma and tragedy truly can lead to profound transformation and a new, more purposeful direction in life. Barefoot Medicine was born from this belief and experience. It embodies the philosophy that true healing lies in understanding the individual and addressing the root cause, not merely suppressing symptoms. This is achieved through Simone’s unique, trademarked D.A.R.I.N.G. Approach™ to Health, which emphasizes personalized strategies based on thorough investigation – the “test, don’t guess” principle – blending scientific insight with the healing wisdom of nature. Barefoot Medicine Ltd Functional Medicine UK, Acupuncture, herbal remedies and nutrition clinic Functional Medicine for the prevention and treatment of chronic health conditions at Barefoot Medicine Ltd. Beyond clinical practice, Simone is passionate about creating healing environments, believing that physical space impacts well-being and helps avoid the “White Coat Syndrome.” Her background in art and interior design ensures her consultation spaces are warm, inviting, and put people at ease. Barefoot Medicine is more than a clinic; it is a testament to transformation, a commitment to listening, and a dedication to empowering individuals to reclaim their health and vitality naturally, guided by a blend of ancient wisdom, modern science, and a truly human touch.

BA Modern Languages (joint honours with Strategic Studies ie military strategy and international security) BSc Acupuncture Post Graduate Diploma in Herbal Medicine

Senior Associate Royal Society of Medicine (membership number 00718237) Institute for Functional Medicine Complementary Medicines Association