WellcommDC [12.09.24]

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 Andria Winger (@anjthisanjthat), a coach, breathwork facilitator, and the Director of Sales and Operations at BASH.

WellcommDC: Where do you work…out?

Andria Winger: I work out mainly at Bash, Life Time Clarendon, and SoulFire Collective Yoga. Movement is a huge part of my life so outside of these places, I enjoy hiking local trails, biking, and the occasional run.

WDC: What does wellness mean to you?

AW: Wellness, to me, is a three-part Venn diagram encompassing mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Each sphere must be fulfilled and balanced for an individual to feel at peace and truly happy. Wellness is about finding the practices that align with your unique needs.

For my mental sphere, I focus on balancing the consumption of social media and outside influences with self-care and meditative rest. In my physical sphere, moving my body at least five days a week is non-negotiable; I view my physical wellness as an investment in a long and healthy future. For my spiritual sphere, I practice breathwork to release tension, explore inwardly, and address the traumas and energies I may carry from experiences and interactions. This helps me heal and move forward.

Growing up, I sang regularly, and I continue to use this somatic practice as a way to connect with myself. Wellness is about balance, and to stay well, we must prioritize our individual needs to maintain that equilibrium.

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

AW: Recently, I competed in my second Women's Open Solo at Hyrox in Chicago, Illinois. I managed to beat my time from New York this past summer by three minutes, which I am incredibly proud of—not just because there were extra wall balls this time, but because I overcame significant challenges. Back in October, I was very sick and spent three weeks recovering from hospitalization before preparing to do my absolute best in the competition.

This experience has motivated me to continue competing and growing as an athlete. I am set to compete in Hyrox DC in March 2025 in the Women's Open Doubles with my friend and fellow athlete, Chloe Friberg (@chloelinnfriberg). I also have my sights set on Hyrox Miami in May 2025 for another solo competition.

Beyond my Hyrox goals, I am committed to personal growth in all aspects of wellness by staying consistent with my lifting schedule and breathwork practice. I am also working on personal breathwork facilitation projects that I plan to release and announce by the end of summer 2025. Additionally, I aim to refine my boxing skills and step into the ring in 2025. As I look ahead, I see myself continuing to grow over the next 12 months, and I can’t wait to see what this next year holds.

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

AW: I am endlessly inspired, motivated by, and consistently held accountable by my partner and favorite coach, Austin Winger (@favoritechannel). I couldn’t be the highest version of myself without him. I’m also deeply grateful for my coach, leader, mentor, and friend Alex Traxas (@lextrak13), along with the rest of our incredible corporate team: Jonathan Nampha, Kelsey Booker (@kelsey_n_booker), and Nick Robbins (@nickrobbins201).

Beyond them, others who keep me accountable and inspired daily include Lauren Parra (@laurenpearpear), Whit Murray (@hiwhit), Caroline Ruckstuhl (@c_rucky), Kennady Whitehead (@ann_kennady), Dan Kain (@danielscottkain), Ciara Mislan (@ciaramiz), Donnivien Bertram (@donnivien), Chloe Friberg (@chloelinnfriberg), and Jamiah Harrison (@jamiahrojas1). This list could go on and on, but I’m so grateful to be surrounded by people who prioritize not only their own growth but mine as well—ensuring I never settle for less than I deserve or am capable of achieving.

You need a tribe, and you owe your personal growth to that tribe—never stop growing or being inspired.

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

AW: My biggest piece of advice to anyone looking to shake up their wellness routine is to keep things simple—return to play and activities you enjoy. Rediscover the things you loved as a child and turn them into your adult play: sing, laugh, dance, MOVE. Try breathwork, meditation, a new sport, running without distractions, or creative art. Commit to consistent practices and find a tribe that will hold you accountable and keep you motivated.

Don’t let your ego get in the way. Give yourself grace for mistakes, and remember—none of us really know what we’re doing; we’re all wingin’ it, so don’t take it too seriously. Just BREATHE. :)

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.

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[BRRR] Join Arc'teryx for the City Center Run Club: Winter Warrior Run on Thursday, December 12th from 6 - 7 am. Lace up and tackle the (freezing) cold with fellow DC runners in a spirited community event that pushes you to stay active and connected, no matter the season. Sign up now to be part of this unforgettable winter run! [Run Together]

[FLEX] Registration is open for the FLEX Throw-Down 2024 on Saturday, December 14 from 7:30 - 11 am at FLEX DC (1011 4th Street, NW). Test your strength, endurance, and agility in this premier fitness competition for athletes of all levels. Tickets are $80 per team and you can sign up here. [HT Caren Plummer (@caren_plummer)]

[HYROX] Ready to measure your fitness level? Join us for a FREE HYROX Physical Fitness Test at F45 Navy Yard on Saturday, December 14th from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. This test is a great intro to fitness racing, offering an intense workout whether you're aiming to compete or just want a challenge. Reserve your spot and see where you stand. [HT Ali Schragger (@alischragger)]

[JINGLE] The Pacers Running’ Jingle 15K and 5K is back on Saturday, December 15, 2024 in downtown Washington, DC. Choose from a 15K or 5K and enjoy a flat, fast course with stunning views of the Monuments and Potomac River. Registration is now open – sign up here. [Run the District]

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.