About Me

Hi, I’m Ashley.

In a nutshell, I’m a wife, mother, business owner, fitness addict, and a little obsessed with nutrition.

I know firsthand how hard it is to have a family and try to keep your health—and the rest of your family’s health—in order!

Let’s talk about you

Ashley TukiainenGulf Coast Wellness · Houston, Texas

Ashley seated cross-legged on a wooden dock beside the water — Self care is a way of life.

My story

From Houston to Finland, and home again.

In 2010, I opened the doors to my private practice. After a few years, in 2014, I took a little business break because I had met a wonderful man. We got married and shortly afterward moved overseas to Finland for a few years.

While we were living overseas, I started a health and wellness blog, Cold Texan Wellness, both as a way to keep up with information and to continue my business in a different form. I truly enjoyed spending those years learning about various health traditions from different cultures!

In 2016, we welcomed our baby girl, and in 2018, we made our way back to Houston, Texas.

In January 2019, I reopened my business, Gulf Coast Wellness.

A little more personal

My family, my heart.

Ashley and her husband together on their wedding day — My husband & me

Ashley’s black cat resting beside a stuffed animal — My cat

Ashley’s baby girl sleeping in a turquoise crocheted mermaid outfit — My baby girl

My approach

Care that starts with listening.

There is no single right way to build a healthy lifestyle. We all have different demands on our lives, and sorting through the options can feel overwhelming.

My goal is to help you find what works for you and your family: things that are fun and inspire you to stick to healthier habits, one small step at a time, in a safe environment without judgment.

My background

Training & qualifications

For as long as I can remember, I knew what I wanted to do with my life: anything and everything related to nutrition, wellness, and fitness. The human body is amazing in its ability to heal and regenerate. From the moment I was able to make decisions about my education, I have been absorbing everything I can on these topics, particularly natural healing practices.

At a very young age, I joined the Navy, and they sent me to nursing school. After getting a little experience in the field, I realized nursing was not my calling.

From there, I completed training and obtained certifications in:

2007: Massage Therapy
2009: Reiki Master/Teacher
2010: Aromatherapy
2014: Yoga Teacher Certification / RYT200
2016: Herbalist Certification through The Herbal Academy of New England
2018: Cupping
2019: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant
2023: Auriculotherapist
2023: Aerial Yoga Instructor
2024: Holistic Nutritionist
2024: Certified Autoimmune Holistic Nutrition Specialist

Ways to work together

A starting point that feels like you.

Massage & Bodywork

Personalized, hands-on sessions with room to slow down and focus on your body’s needs.

Ask about massage

Nutrition Services

Real food, practical guidance, and small changes you can make part of everyday life.

Ask about nutrition

Yoga & Fitness

Guided movement and individual support, with sessions shaped around your goals.

Ask about movement

You’re welcome here

Support without judgment.

There are many things that you will find when working with Gulf Coast Wellness, but what you will not find is judgment, criticism, and negativity. There is enough of that in the world already, but it is not tolerated here.

I look forward to helping you find the things that inspire you to lead a healthier life! I am here for you and would love the opportunity to answer your questions. If you don’t already see what you are looking for, just send me an email.

Thanks for taking me on your journey!

To your health!Ashley

Have questions or a topic request?

Email Ashley

Testimonials

“She’s the kind of caregiver you want in your corner.”

Robin · Client testimonial excerpt