Spiritual Unfoldment
1782. John Butler
John Butler, aged 84, from Buxton, is a retired farmer who became a YouTube sensation over lockdown with his mindfulness videos helping people cope with anxiety and improve wellbeing.
John had not known about YouTube until 2018, but has now produced over 200 videos, sharing tips, stories and meditation guidance from his Derbyshire farm with the aim of reducing anxiety and helping people achieve greater calmness. John’s videos gained huge worldwide audiences over the course of the pandemic, with over 1980,000 subscribers to his channel ‘Spiritual Unfoldment’ drawn to his unique mental health coping strategies. John also hosts meditation retreats and published eight not-for-profit books, offering further spiritual insight.
In a personal letter to John, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I was uplifted to learn of ‘Spiritual Unfoldment’ and how you have brought the joy of mindfulness to people across the UK, and indeed globally, with your online videos. You have used your gift for offering guidance and meditation which has brought comfort to so many, particularly during the pandemic.
“With over 15 million views, your videos have helped millions of people feel less anxious by hearing your ‘keep your feet on the ground’ sessions.”
Sarah Dines, MP for Derbyshire Dales, said:
“John Butler truly deserves the Prime Minister’s Points of Light award. His YouTube videos have provided comfort, inspiration, and support to people during the pandemic, not only here in Derbyshire Dales but across the world. The pandemic has been a scary and uncertain time for many, and I know that John’s videos, guided meditation, and words of wisdom have helped people feel less alone and worried during this time.”
John said:
“That’s a surprise! Thank you. But let me first direct attention to my teachers – nature, common sense and meditation. Without them, I’d have no ‘Point of Light’ to share.”