In this episode, Melyssa welcomes guest Ashantis Jones, a therapist, mental health coach, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor. They discuss the importance of integrating mental health and physical fitness, dismantling societal and marketing-imposed fitness stigmas, and embracing personalized, enjoyable approaches to movement and wellness. Ashantis shares her journey in encouraging people to strengthen their bodies for everyday life rather than just focusing on aesthetics and weight loss. Tune in for actionable tips on finding a fitness regime that works for you, recognizing the mental health benefits of physical activity, and unlearning unhealthy beliefs about exercise and body image!

MEET OUR GUEST

Ashantis Jones (she/they) is a Therapist, Mental Health Coach, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, and Group Fitness Instructor that focuses on the mind and body – both of which are equally important to one’s health. By using an intersectional approach, self-love becomes the tool that heals and educates. She started teaching group fitness in 2012, became a Personal Trainer in 2021, and has her Masters of Education in Counseling. They are passionate about helping people reach their life’s purpose because everyone deserves to fully enjoy their life! She has previously worked for [solidcore], Barry’s, and was nominated for Best Personal Trainer on Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago 2023 list.

CONNECT WITH ASHANTIS

• Ashantis’ Website: www.ashantisjones.com
• Upcoming Events with Ashantis: https://www.ashantisjones.com/group-fitness-and-events
• Instagram: @iamashantis
• TikTok: @iamashantis

UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS:

• Friday, June 28th at 12pm EST, De-Stress and Rebalance: A Hormone Health Workshop for Women featuring special guest, Rachel Lee
• Sunday, June 30th at 11am EST, Mid-Year 2024 Resolution Reset

• Sign up for our upcoming Healthy Living Doesn’t Have to SUCK Audiobook Group Coaching Program!
  • Grab our FREE Wellness Wheel Activity sneak peek from the book!
  • Join our FREE Change Maker Community here!
  • Grab your copy of Melyssa’s book here!
  • Follow us on Instagram: @melyssa_with_a_why and @healthylivingdoesnthavetosuck
  • Email Melyssa at: info@melyssawithawhy.com
  • Visit our website: https://www.healthylivingdoesnthavetosuck.com/

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 
00:38 Exciting Announcements & Updates
01:43 Conversation with Ashantis Jones Begins
03:33 Ashantis Jones: Background and Expertise
06:11 Integrating Mental Health and Fitness
08:47 Empowerment Through Movement
18:55 Unlearning and Relearning Healthy Habits
21:37 Practical Steps to Start Your Fitness Journey
27:43 Final Thoughts and Farewell