1. Please introduce yourself: Name, what do you do & how many children you have.
Amanda Ashy Amanda Ashy, a clinical nutritionist, mindfulness teacher, and yoga instructor for children & families. She has worked with children clinically for nearly a decade in nutrition and mental health, incorporating wellbeing protocols to help modify behaviour and help children and families discover how to be calmer, happier and stronger. Amanda teaches social-emotional well-being in school system and works as a consultant supporting schools to develop their wellbeing curriculum. 2 girls, 8 and 6.5 2.
2. How do you manage to juggle work and life balance as a mother?
It’s one of the most difficult things to do. The domestic mental load keeps getting heavier and with that my mindfulness, meditation and yoga practice must get stronger so I can continue to carry it and navigate challenges that pop up everyday.
3. What top tips would you give to any working mum?
I’m nearly four years sober and although I had a substance problem for decades which upon hitting rock bottom forced me into sobriety, I think alcohol is a huge concern amongst women and mothers. I would encourage all women and mothers to take an honest look at their relationship to alcohol and do what they can to either reduce their intake or shelf it forever.
4. What do you love most about London?
Do you have a favourite spot with your children? I love the diversity and inclusivity that London offers.
5. How do you define quality ‘me-time’?
Sometimes it’s as simple as having a cup of tea and daydreaming out the window. Sometimes it’s taking a detour after the school run for a quick walk through the wooded area and then through the big open green. Sometimes it’s a super hot bath with candles (I’m a pisces so I love the water); sometimes it’s yoga and meditation or long 2-3 hours cacao ceremonies with my partner. I always find time for me, otherwise, I become more reactive and impatient and that just nurtures mum guilt.
6. What is your favourite & least favourite thing about parenthood?
Favourite is co-creating with my two girls. Being present for them and really trying to see who they are so I can honour their unique experiences in life. Least favourite is how easy it can be sometimes to fall into that victim/martyr role. I must always remind myself that I am the CEO of the family and so the largest responsibility falls on my shoulders. And if I’m not being supported the way I think I need, then I need to let my team members (my children and partner) know b/c they don’t read my mind.
7. Tell us something people don’t know about you.
I absolutely love singer-songwriter Tori Amos. She is my biggest role model. She’s a goddess and musical genius and I’ve seen her live in concert nearly 20 times.
8. Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first time Mum?
Find as many opportunities as possible to let the child lead. Try to remember, as much as you might feel like you are, you’re not in control and that’s a beautiful thing. We are here to co-create with our child so they can grow to be the truest version of themselves. We have so much childhood baggage and that often times dictates much of our parenting reactions. The way we were raised does’t necessarily deserve to be handed down to our children. Notice if it’s right for you and the child. If it’s not, make a choice to interrupt that pattern. Your intuition is your most powerful parenting tool because it allows you to know yourself and see the child in front of you. Finding quiet time as a mother to be with yourself is the only way to tune into and sharpen your intuition. Leave the noise regularly to tune into you. Let go of the martyr mentality.
9. I’m a mum and…… a divine intuitive goddess 😉
9. I’m a mum and…… a divine intuitive goddess 😉
You can find out more about Amanda, and her online wellbeing course for children, at www.amandaashyboyd.com
Read more inspiring interviews as part of our online motherhood exhibition and get in touch to share your story with us. We would love to hear from you.
