WellcommDC [11.25.24]

WellcommDC is the email newsletter bringing you the best of the DMV’s wellness community. Transform your self, transform your community, and transform your world. Join the list, and get WellcommDC sent directly to your inbox. Have a friend who would love WellcommDC? Then please forward our email or tag them on one of our IG posts. Email your tips to [email protected] or slide into our DMs.

[HIGH FIVE] We gave a High Five to Juan Marcano (@juanmrcn), a trainer and HYROX athlete based in Washington, DC.

WellcommDC: Where do you work…out?

Juan Marcano: I don’t limit myself to just one gym or workout space because I love the variety and energy of different communities in the DMV area. Each place has its own vibe, and I find joy in connecting with people across these different fitness spaces. You can usually catch me at: F45 Shirlington, CUT SEVEN, The Lab DC, Flex DMV, Lifetime Life in Clarendon and Team After One: DSRC & WINSday crew - founded by Mona Lavinia Garcia (@monalavinia), Javier (@_____javi____), and Carl Nard (@carlnard). 

Wellness is about more than just physical fitness. It’s a balanced approach to mind and body, finding joy in movement, and sharing positive energy with others. It’s about growth and connection—both with yourself and with those around you.

WDC: What does wellness mean to you?

JM: Wellness is about embracing a balanced and fulfilling life in every aspect. It’s not just about physical health or activity; true wellness involves caring for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being as a whole. This means moving our bodies, while also taking time to rest, reflect, and recharge.

For a long time, I believed wellness meant being active every day. I pushed myself to work out constantly, thinking that if I wasn’t moving, I wasn’t truly taking care of myself. Eventually, I experienced burnout, which forced me to rethink my approach. I realized that wellness isn’t just about physical activity or fitness—it’s about nurturing my mind and emotions, allowing myself to rest when needed, and releasing the guilt that comes with it.

Wellness also extends to the energy we bring to others. I aim to be my best self in any space, sharing positivity and fostering a joyful atmosphere. It’s important that the spaces I create or occupy feel welcoming and uplifting, so I strive to bring joy and kindness to everyone I meet. Wellness is a journey toward balance and meaningful connections with ourselves and others.

WDC: What are your wellness goals over the next twelve months?

JM: I just turned 31, and I'm setting my sights on a year filled with movement, resilience, and pushing my limits. My main goal is to keep moving as freely and efficiently as possible—not just for this year but for the long haul. I want to embrace every challenge that tests my strength, agility, and endurance in new ways.

Next, I'll compete in HYROX World DC, teaming up with Mike Winter (@mike_winter40) for the Doubles event. I’ll also be doing a mixed relay with Frank Cadle (@fcadle), Emily Meredith (@emmere), and Kyleigh Boval (@kyleighmboval), running it back after placing 3rd overall in NYC this past summer.

Beyond that, there’s a strong chance I’ll be running the 50th Annual Marine Corps Marathon. Participating in such a historic race would be an honor—not only as part of a year focused on challenging myself and seeing what my body is truly capable of, but also as a former Marine who served from 2012-2018. I’m looking forward to making the most of each event, celebrating progress, and growing every step of the way. (Shoutout Mona Lavinia Garcia (@monalavinia), Javier Martinez (@_____javi____), and Emily Meredith (@emmere).

WDC: Who are some people who inspire you, motivate you, or keep you accountable when it comes to your wellness?

JM: I'm grateful to have an incredible circle of people in the DMV who inspire, motivate, and keep me accountable on my wellness journey. Each person plays a unique role, pushing me out of my comfort zone and encouraging me to grow in countless ways. When it comes to strength and lifting heavy, Jihad Watt (@jihad_watt) and Marcus Lowe (@marcusxlowe) have been incredible guides, always motivating me to push my limits and believe in my own strength.

For running and building endurance, Mona Lavinia Garcia (@monalavinia), Javier Martinez (@_____javi____), and the entire DSRC +WINSday community have shown me the value of commitment and perseverance. They’ve inspired me to keep putting one foot in front of the other—even on the tough days—and to become a stronger, more resilient runner.

Then there are the accountability partners who support me through it all. Samantha Johannesen (@sam_johannesen), Frank Cadle (@fcadle), Daniel Kain (@danielscottkain), Mike Winter (@mike_winter40), Misha Lee (@hangrymother), and Clarence Stanfield (@clarence_stanfield) keep me grounded and remind me to show up—not just for myself, but for others too. They motivate me to bring my best to any space I enter and to spread joy to those around me. I feel lucky to have each of them as part of my wellness journey; they make it so much richer and more meaningful.

WDC: What advice would you share with someone looking to change their wellness routine?

JM: My advice for someone looking to change their wellness routine is to make consistency and commitment your foundation. The journey isn’t just about showing up on the good days; it’s about showing up even when things get tough. Life will inevitably throw challenges your way, but remember the promise you made to yourself to work toward becoming a better version of you. Stick with it, even when motivation is low, when you’re feeling down, or when you’re simply not in the mood.

Having support—like accountability buddies, coaches, or a community—can make a huge difference, giving you that extra encouragement to keep going. But ultimately, this journey is yours. Progress and transformation come from staying true to the goals you set for yourself and showing up, day in and day out, with determination. Focus on small, consistent actions, and let them build the momentum to carry you forward.

Know someone who deserves a High Five? Click here to submit your nomination so we can feature them in a future WellcommDC High Five profile.

[BREATHE] Recharge Your FRQNCY with a virtual Breathwork Series on Tuesday, December 3rd at 7:30 pm led by the great Meghan Gifford (@yourfrqncy). This transformative 75-minute session includes community connection, 25-30 minutes of active breathwork, and time to rest and integrate—all designed to help you reconnect with your inner rhythm and amplify your authentic self. Tickets are $22 and you can sign up here. [Recharge and reconnect]

[RUNNING] The Slow and Steady Run Club | DC has their next run planned for Thursday, December 5th at 6:30 pm starting from the Kalorama Park (Flag Pole) in NW DC. Founded in 2024, this DC run club bills itself as “A run club for all faces and paces.” [Pace and grace]

[PLAY] Join DC Fray for the 8th Annual Santa Bowl Charity Flag Football Tournament on Saturday, December 7th, 2024, from 9 am to 5 pm at Long Bridge Park in Arlington, VA. This epic 7-v-7 mixed-gender event guarantees three games per team, with prizes, a trophy for the champs, and a special $300 gift card for the team collecting the most donations for Bridges to Independence. Visit Santa Bowl 2024 to sign up. [Making fun possible]

[INVITE] Method Room's Inaugural Holiday Party is happening on December 8th from 4 - 7 pm—featuring an Ugly Sweater Contest. Fun games, delicious food, cocktails, and rumors of prizes from 437 are just part of an incredible evening. RSVP via Method Room IG. Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers. Enjoy food from Chopt and Dos Toros, festive cocktails, and show off your ugliest sweater for a chance to win. Hosted by the great Yasmine Reed (@yazzyreed), Owner and Operator of Method Room. [Holiday vibes only]

That’s this edition of WellcommDC. Like what you read? Join the list, and get future editions sent directly to your inbox. Have a friend who needs WellcommDC? Then please forward our email or tag them on one of our IG posts. Got tips? Drop us a line at [email protected] or slide in. Until next time, take care of yourself, and take care of each other.

Go For It,

Your WellcommDC Team (@wellcommdc)

Transform Your Self. Transform Your Community. Transform Your World.