Meet Ashley Dawn | Good Intentions Wellness

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Dawn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My decision to start my own business was driven by a desire to break a cycle that I recognized in my career and personal life. Although I worked with various companies that sometimes offered flexibility in my schedule, I noticed a significant gap in my long-term planning. This lack of a future-oriented strategy is a habit I now understand I had inherited.

Additionally, I realized that my previous roles didn’t allow me to fully express my unique self. This constraint affected both my job performance and the services I provided to my clients. I felt that I was unable to deliver the best possible experience because my approach had to align with the company’s expectations rather than the clients’ true needs. There were also limitations on how I could discuss certain topics, which further hindered my ability to offer optimal sessions.

Ultimately, I felt that the client experience was too often dictated by how much they spent rather than the quality and personalization of the service. By starting my own business, I aimed to create an environment where I could authentically engage with my clients, provide tailored services based on their needs, and ensure a higher standard of care and satisfaction. This decision has allowed me to better plan for the future and offer a service that I genuinely believe in.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’d love to share more about my journey and my work. I founded Good Intentions Wellness with the vision of offering a wide range of holistic treatments, including massage, facials, yoga, breathwork, Reiki, and astrology. However, as my business evolved, I realized that I had initially fallen into the trap of trying to conform to a conventional business model, both physically and structurally. Despite my best efforts, I felt I wasn’t fully serving my clients’ needs.

This realization led me to develop a comprehensive course that encompassed all my holistic health knowledge. I believed this would be the key to delivering the transformative experiences my clients needed. However, I soon discovered that this approach was overwhelming for many, as they weren’t at the same stage of their healing journey as I was. This prompted me to take a step back, slow down, and reassess my approach.

I am incredibly grateful for my amazing clients, whose openness and feedback have been instrumental in shaping my business. It certainly wasn’t easy, and there were many times when I contemplated returning to the employee life. But perseverance paid off, and through further self-healing, I gained clarity on how to effectively deliver my message and offerings.

From the insights gathered through my clients’ feedback and my integrated approach to treatments, I discovered that the missing key was starting with an understanding of one’s natal chart to identify and heal their shadow aspects. This led to the creation of my “Reiki Rebirth” offering, which combines personalized Reiki sessions aimed at healing and revitalizing one’s life.

Additionally, I have incorporated collective healing insights into a membership program called “The Healing Collective.” This program provides access to my holistic resources and includes monthly collective healing sessions. My massage therapy is also geared towards emotional release, helping clients alleviate physical pain and make space for healing.

A significant fulfillment I have experienced comes from adding an in-person event called The Healing Room where I provide Reiki and breathwork and we all ecstaticly dance and consciously connect. These events have provided a platform for deeper, community-based healing experiences. They allow me to connect with clients outside of the treatment room, creating a supportive environment where participants can explore their inner selves and foster meaningful connections with others.

In summary, my journey has been one of continuous learning and adaptation. What sets me apart is my dedication to a personalized, integrative approach that begins with deep self-understanding and progresses through supported sequential healing. I want the world to know that Good Intentions Wellness is not just a business; it’s a space for profound transformation, driven by compassion, empathy, and a commitment to holistic well-being.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Welcome to San Diego

Morning:
Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla: Start the day with a charming breakfast in La Jolla, offering a variety of vegan options.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Hike the trails of this coastal reserve, offering stunning ocean views and diverse flora.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Trilogy Sanctuary Cafe: Enjoy a delicious, organic, vegan lunch with a beautiful rooftop view.
Explore La Jolla Village: Visit local shops, art galleries, and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
Evening:
Dinner at Cafe Gratitude: Savor a healthy and conscious dinner at this plant-based restaurant.
Sunset at Windansea Beach: Watch a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 2: Nature and Healing

Morning:
Breakfast at Naked Cafe: Enjoy a healthy breakfast with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients.
Mission Trails Regional Park: Hike the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of this vast urban park.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Kindred: Delight in creative vegan cuisine at this unique bar and restaurant.
Maya Moon Collective: Attend a conscious event or workshop focused on community and personal growth.
Evening:
Dinner at Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant: Enjoy flavorful vegetarian and vegan Thai cuisine.
Chill Bonfire at Ocean Beach: Gather around a bonfire for connection and relaxation.

Day 3: Day Trip to Sedona

Morning:
Early Breakfast at Great Maple: Treat yourself to a delicious, hearty breakfast before hitting the road.
Drive to Sedona: Enjoy the scenic drive to Sedona, known for its spiritual vortexes and stunning red rock formations.
Afternoon:
Lunch at ChocolaTree Organic Oasis: Delight in an organic, vegan meal at this peaceful sanctuary.
Explore Sedona: Visit local crystal shops, art galleries, and take a short hike to one of the vortex sites.
Evening:
Dinner at Local Juicery: Savor fresh, organic vegan dishes and smoothies.
Sunset Meditation at Airport Mesa: Experience a powerful sunset meditation at one of Sedona’s most famous vortex spots.
Drive Back to San Diego: Return to San Diego with a heart full of peace and rejuvenation.

Day 4: Coastal Adventures

Morning:
Breakfast at Pannikin Coffee & Tea: Visit this historic coffee house in Encinitas for a cozy start to the day.
Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens: Walk through these serene gardens with stunning ocean views.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Nectarine Grove: Enjoy organic, gluten-free, and vegan options at this welcoming cafe.
Encinitas Beach Day: Relax and enjoy the beach vibes at Moonlight Beach or Swami’s Beach.
Evening:
Dinner at Herb & Sea: Dine at this elegant coastal restaurant offering vegan options.
Meditation at The Chopra Center: Participate in an evening meditation or wellness class.

Day 5: Wellness and Relaxation

Morning:
Breakfast at Parakeet Cafe: Enjoy a nutritious breakfast with superfood lattes.
Yoga Session at Trilogy Sanctuary: Participate in a rooftop yoga class with stunning views.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Peace Pies: Enjoy raw, vegan, and gluten-free delights at this unique eatery.
Visit a Local Holistic Healing Center: Spend the afternoon at a smaller, local wellness center for treatments such as Reiki, acupuncture, or sound healing.
Evening:
Dinner at Café 21 University Heights: Relish a farm-to-table dinner with live music.
Reflective Walk at the Japanese Friendship Garden: Stroll through this tranquil garden for some reflection.

Day 6: Day Trip to Julian

Morning:
Breakfast at The Trails Eatery: Have a cozy breakfast at this beloved local spot before heading out.
Drive to Julian: Enjoy the scenic drive to this charming mountain town.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Julian’s Café & Bakery: Savor a delightful vegan-friendly lunch.
Explore Julian: Visit local shops, hike nearby trails, and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Evening:
Dinner at Jeremy’s on the Hill: Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine with vegan options.
Stargazing in Julian: Experience the clear, starry skies away from the city lights.

Day 7: Exploring Unique Neighborhoods

Morning:
Breakfast at Better Buzz Coffee in Hillcrest: Start the day with a great coffee and breakfast in this vibrant neighborhood.
Explore Hillcrest Farmers Market: Discover local produce, crafts, and delicious food.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Donna Jean: Enjoy gourmet vegan dishes in this cozy setting.
North Park: Stroll through this trendy area, visiting local shops, art galleries, and boutiques.
Evening:
Dinner at The Plot: Savor innovative plant-based dishes at this sustainable restaurant in Oceanside.
Live Music at The Observatory: Catch a live performance at one of San Diego’s premier music venues.

Day 8: Reflect and Connect

Morning:
Breakfast at Parakeet Cafe: Enjoy a light, healthy breakfast.
Mission Trails Regional Park: Hike the trails and connect with nature one last time.
Afternoon:
Lunch at The Trails Eatery: Enjoy a cozy lunch before heading to your final activity.
Balboa Park’s Japanese Friendship Garden: Reflect and unwind in this tranquil garden.
Evening:
Dinner at Juniper & Ivy: Treat yourself to innovative American cuisine in Little Italy with vegan options.
Closing Ceremony at Maya Moon Collective: Attend a final conscious event or meditation to end the week on a high note.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I’d love to give a shoutout to the incredible individuals and resources that have profoundly influenced my journey. My heartfelt thanks go to my personal energy healers who have guided me with their wisdom and support. Najah, the crystal shaman, has been instrumental in helping me connect with healing energies. Veronica Paris, an inner child spiritual channeler, has provided deep insights and healing for my inner child. Alanna Kaivalya, my yoga teacher, has been a source of strength and inspiration, guiding me through both physical and spiritual practices. Lore Marti, an ancestral healer, has helped me connect with and heal my ancestral roots, and Nichollette Nettnay, my astrologist, has given me clarity and guidance through her astrological insights.

In addition to these amazing individuals, several books have significantly impacted my personal and professional growth. “It Didn’t Start with You” by Mark Wolynn has offered invaluable insights into generational trauma and healing. “Women Who Run with the Wolves” by Clarissa Pinkola Estés has been a powerful source of inspiration and empowerment. And “Breathe Deep, Laugh Loudly” by Judith Kravitz has taught me the importance of breathwork and joy in everyday life.

These people and resources have been pivotal in my journey, and I am deeply grateful for their contributions to my growth and success.

Website: https://www.goodintentionswellness.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/good_intentions_wellness/

Other: The Healing Collective
https://www.instagram.com/good_intentions_wellness/