Get to Know: Ashantis Jones

We are so lucky to have Ashantis Jones on our team here at Bellamy & Associates. Here’s an interview with Ashantis to get to know her a bit more. If you’re interested in working with Ashantis, she offers body image coaching in Chicago and nationally/internationally and works with folks on unlearning diet culture; practicing body respect, body neutrality, and body positivity; developing a healthy and joyful relationship to movement; and feeling empowered to take up space and be authentically you.

Why did you become a coach?

I intended to become a therapist until three months before graduating when I decided to pivot because I wanted to work with people in a way that allowed me to incorporate fitness. In general, I knew I wanted to be a therapist/now coach because I’ve learned a lot from clinicians as I went through my own healing journey. I wanted to be able to provide a similar space for people as they heal, especially given my own identities (I am Queer, Black, Autistic and have ADHD, fibromylagia, and chronic illness). I want folks to feel represented when searching for available providers/helpers.

What are your favorite parts about being a coach?

I love being able to see people’s progress and knowing I could be a part of their journey. At the end of the day, they are the ones doing the work and there’s something fulfilling to know I can witness and be part of helping people make positive changes. 

How do you practice your own self-care?

I try and practice what I preach, even when I’m not feeling it. I frame self-care as a piece of my wellness and stick to the everyday practices that I know are important for my overall health. I prioritize drinking water, sleeping well, getting vitamin D from the sun, doing physical therapy, engaging in movement in general, and spending time with my dog, Zig. 

What's something about body image/diet culture that you wish more people knew?

I wish more people knew that when you learn to find more neutrality and respect in your body, that shift impacts more aspects of your life as well. That was something I wasn’t expecting in my own recovery journey. For example, I became more confident in my body, I became more confident in all aspects of life. When you feel ok to take up space, life changes in all sorts of ways. 

Another thing I wish more people understood: The BMI is bogus (read: racist)!

How do you enjoy life?

Being with community and nonjudgmental people. I love trying and enjoying food. I love TV - an ensemble sitcom is right up my alley.

Thanks to Ashantis for sharing a bit more about herself and for being a part of our team!

If you’re interested to work with Ashantis, book a complimentary consult call to learn more.