Who am I? Where am I from? And what the kale is a nutritional therapy practitioner? All that and more, answered here!
Hi there! My name is Ashley Castle. I'm a certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP), Restorative Wellness Practitioner, and lover of real, wholesome, nutrient dense foods.
Growing up, I was always intrigued by the labels on cereal boxes and any other boxed, processed frankenfoods that many of us were raised on. I didn't know exactly what those labels were telling me, but I found them interesting to read, nonetheless.
Fast forward to my college years, where I maintained an interest in "nutrition," or what I thought it to be (i.e. buying the whole wheat brown sugar cinnamon Pop Tarts instead of the regular), while primarily studying Spanish and secretly wishing I could stay in school forever (what can I say? I love to learn and wanted to study ALL the things).
After college, I married into the military, moved to Kansas, and was faced with the great big unknown of "what next?", coupled with the quintessential life questions of "what am I doing with myself?" and "what do I really want?" Through my daily forays and dabbles in the kitchen, I began to hone in on that ever curious nutritional voice in my head. After discovering that I too had fallen prey to the autoimmune disease monster that plagues my family (my body chose the thyroid and Hashimotos. Rock those genes!), I began taking a deeper and more intensive look at what nourishing my body really meant. I spent some time utilizing the AIP (autoimmune paleo) diet to hone in on my food intolerances and sensitivities and give my body time to heal.
This ongoing journey is what led me to Nutritional Therapy. Many people today are stuck in an endless loop of doctor's visits, no answers, and continued health issues. With nutritional therapy, my goal and passion is to empower you to eat well and eat right for your body's unique needs. I don't believe "everything in moderation," but rather to mindfully moderate the things that do or don't work for you and your overall well-being. You can learn more about the specifics of nutritional therapy here.
Some fast fun facts about me:
I currently call Colorado home and LOVE the fresh air and mountain views (DEFINITELY not in Kansas anymore, Toto!)
Some of the very first connections I love to make in a new place are with the local farmers for quality meat and produce.
I have an insanely adorable mauxie dog (mini dachshund/Maltese mix) named Loca. She is the true epitome of her name and adds so much light and love to our lives. She currently suffers from Senior Dog Entitlement Syndrome, meaning she has reached the age where she doesn’t give an F about rules anymore and basically does what she wants. We’re all just here in service to her.
I dream of one day living in a tiny home on a gorgeous little slice of land
Growing up, I always wanted to be an astronaut (that dream never truly died). The closest I got was Space Camp, and it. Was. AWESOME (still have the t-shirt). I will forever love soaking up the beauty of the night sky and daydreaming (nightdreaming?) of taking a trip to outer space.
I love traveling and exploring new cities, generally starting with the best/quirkiest local coffee shops.
Most things turn into a song in my brain. There is ALWAYS music going on up in my head space.
If I had to choose between beach or mountains, I'd pick both, simultaneously. Probably just Scotland.
I am a MASTER at Catch Phrase. Things get pretty intense.
I love connecting with people (that's YOU!). Living, laughing, learning, and growing together. I love providing a safe space for others to feel seen, heard, and valued, and encouraging people to be their best, healthiest selves. My hope is that you are truly able to sense that here in my little slice of the worldwide web.
In 2020 at the height of the pandemic craziness, I became a mom for the first time to my amazing son, Jude. This has truly shifted my life focus. You can read more about our wild, unexpected ride (including his preterm birth at 32 weeks) here and here. Motherhood has been the hardest and greatest experience of my life and I love sharing about my journey and encouraging others on this path.
I look forward to connecting with you, working with you, and just walking through this whole life thing together.
In loving health,
Ashley