Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley McMillan.
Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am humbled to say that what started off as a quirky project idea slowly started to blossom into something bigger. I am a person who is always on the go, and it’s awfully hard to sit still when there’s always stuff to do. I didn’t really know how to relax and not be “on” all the time. But a few winters ago I was battling some ugly seasonal blues. I tried many things to get out of that funk. One of the things I forced myself to do was draw a nice hot bath twice a week and sit in it for at least 10 minutes. No phone, no TV in the background. Just me. At first it was difficult, but after about four baths I was able to stay in longer and enjoy a new self care ritual. I was never the best at meditation, so this became my meditation. Now I hop in and read a book and now I never want to get out. Also, the world is a beautiful place, but life here right now is just madness. I feel safe in my bath tub. It’s sort of my on personal cocoon. In there, there is no madness, there is no bad news in my face all day. No social media, no opinions and judgements from others. People underestimate baths, I think. They aren’t just about cleanliness. It’s not about sitting in your in dirty water. If that IS the case, rinse off beforehand. They are healing and healthy for your nervous system. They help calm anxiety, sadness, and stress. At the same time, your skin (your largest organ) is absorbing all of the minerals our body needs on a daily basis. I believe baths are very important, and many cultures throughout history have incorporated bathing rituals into their daily lives. I want to inspire others to do the same. For your mental and physical well being alone. It may sound silly, but I promise you it’s true.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any new business owner there is trial and error, but for the most part things have been pretty smooth.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Since I was a kid, creating art was not only fun, but a healthy pastime. It was one of the few classes Im enjoyed in school. I had a natural talent and was very creative so I was able to really shine in that way. I’ve done many different types of creative projects like painting, sketching, pen and ink, pottery, sculpture, tattoo designs, digital art, collage, and pyrography. But wood burning Is my most enjoyable type of art.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Risk taking is a part of life, so there will always be risks to take in business. Taking risks challenges me. Creating a small business is taking a risk. But if it was easy, everyone would do it. I’ve learned so many life lessons this way. Taking risks have been highly valuable for me in some way or another and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bain_ritual/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584314542388
