Albertville In Fit and Anytime Fitness franchise owner Ashley Darkenwald has worn a few hats in her time.
Now, she’s added another.
The mother, trainer, business owner and one-time athlete has turned author with the release of her first book, “Living Wellness,” a guide to living life through spiritual, nutritional and physical health.
“We’re all meant to be more than mediocre, and we all know that. But sometimes, knowing isn’t enough. You need a bit of a push or an extra cheer to get to the top. That’s what this is all about. It’s a guide to getting there in your own way,” Darkenwald, an Otsego resident with her husband and two children, said.
The book, published by Beaver’s Pond Press, can be found on AshleyDarkenwald.com or at the Albertville InFit/Anytime location on Wright County 19, just north of the Albertville Premium Outlets.
Friends and family joined Darkenwald for a book release party held at Pour Wine Bar and Bistro in Otsego Sunday, Feb. 23.
“She’s truly an inspirational person,” said friend and editor Kim Hanauska. “She’s just very driven and very passionate about health and well-being. And she brings a spiritual side to it that is really incredible.”
Darkenwald touts “Living Wellness” as something other than the one-size-fits-all programs normally seen in health magazines or nutritional books.
“There are no fads here. What works best for one person might not work best for the rest of the group, which is why you see so many people fail, and then move on to the next new thing,” Darkenwald said. “What ‘Living Wellness’ does is provide guidance, inspiration and something for everyone. It’s truly a guide to health and wellness.”
For more about “Living Wellness,” including nutritional classes and a DVD that correlate to the book, check out AshleyDarkenwald.com.