Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Featherson.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was diagnosed with Psoriasis at the age of four years old. From then to now at 29, it’s been an on and off battle. I’ve tried every treatment there is. It would go away and return for years. After receiving my B.S in Food Science, I became more intrigued with the effects of food on the body. Eventually, I turned to holistic healing. Although I’m still managing psoriasis and learning about holistic health, I’ve accepted where I am in my journey. For years, I struggled with low self-esteem. Once I began to embrace and love myself to the core, my life changed. I carried myself with confidence which not only changed how others viewed me but led to many modeling opportunities. I’ve been featured in national media as well as modeled for boutiques. I’m so happy that I took control of my life instead of allowing Psoriasis to control me. I wouldn’t go swimming, wear shorts, go certain places; I limited myself tremendously.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There were some struggles with self-love for sure. I didn’t think I was pretty or wanted to change so much about myself. Once I took time to heal from the false narrative of society’s idea of beauty, and stop comparing myself to others with “clear skin,” I was able to find myself and love me for ME. We all face our own insecurities, but it’s up to us to do the work internally and understand our worth. Others view and treat you the way you see and treat yourself. There’s so many things more important than the physical. I fell in love with myself and all that makes me unique. From there, I stopping getting my own way of living life to the fullest!
Please tell us about SpottieTooHottie.
SpottieTooHottie – is my Instagram page that focuses on psoriasis awareness, holistic health, and overall lifestyle/living life. I’ll soon transition to a blog. The name in itself sets me apart; it catches everyone’s attention and people are so intrigued to learn more. Daily, I get messages about others feeling hopeful about gaining confidence, healing, or even kind compliments and words of encouragement. I truly feel like I’m living in my purpose by embracing who I am.
Ultimately, my goal is to inspire others to live in their truths and to their full potential while educating them on how to do so through holistic healing.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I had to start over, the only thing I would do differently is learning to accept and love myself sooner. I wouldn’t put so much energy into what others think and just live for me. I believe if I’d done that sooner, I would’ve experienced many more opportunities.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: spottietoohottie_
Image Credit:
Solo imagine (yellow blazer) – Emily Lipson, Legs crossed in co-ord set – Delmar Bailey
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