WellcommDC [5.13.24]

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 Andrea DiRaddo (@andreadiraddoyoga), a Washington, DC yoga therapist.

WellcommDC: Where do you work…out?

Andrea DiRaddo: I love the variety of workouts and the different fitness communities throughout the city. On any given week, you can find me at Elevate Interval Fitness, WØRK, CUT SEVEN, and [solidcore]. I practice and teach yoga at Yoga District and Mimi Rieger Yoga.

WDC: What does “wellness” mean to you?

AD: For me, "wellness" means balance and alignment. Through awareness, we can find an equilibrium between our physical, mental, social, and emotional connections. Wellness is a choice, an active pursuit. In the yoga therapy system, we would study the Koshas or "sheaths" that comprise your body and surround your soul. We can decide for ourselves what wellness looks like by first becoming aware of our goals and aspirations and making choices that support those goals. It's through this practice that we tap into a deep sense of alignment and answer the calling of our inner voice.

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

AD: My wellness goals are centered around maintenance. I know what I need to do on a given day, week, or month to keep myself grounded and well cared for. I strive to be faster, stronger, more mindful, and more connected as I continue on my wellness journey, and often the hardest work is maintaining my personal sense of alignment.

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

AD: @marcusxlowe, @katie_collard, @davidmagida, @chrisperrin7, @alshabes, @rachel.s.hoffman, @caitlinkarna, @lynncitaylor, @mimiriegeryoga, @vichka4ua, @gijanehippie, @colewithglasses, @dr.carly_desiree, and @melanias.gourmet.

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

AD: I would first ask what part of their wellness routine needs to change. If they become aware of the factors that make up a wellness routine, they can start small with 1-2 things that can be done right now to support their goals. For example, drinking water throughout the day and making time to sit with oneself in silence can make a huge difference on the path to wellness. Once something becomes habitual, add in more adjustments. Wellness is a long game, so take it one day at a time.

Know someone who we should highlight? Click here to submit your nomination for a future WellcommDC High Five profile.

[RUN OUTSIDE] Now that the DMV weather has warmed up, we’ve officially entered 5K Race Season. Two Washington, DC races are scheduled for next weekend:

2024 Lawyers Have Heart [10K, 5K, Fun Walk]: Taking place on Saturday, May 18th at West Potomac Park, the DMV legal running community have already raised $1.2M towards their $2M goal for the American Heart Association of the Greater Washington Region.

Capitol Bank Capitol Hill Classic [10K, 3K, Fun Run]: Over 3,000 participants are expected to lace up for a Sunday, May 19th race on Capitol Hill. The Capitol Hill Classic is a major annual fundraiser for the Capitol Hill Cluster School.

[COMMUNITY] Join SWEAT DC at 7 pm on Tuesday, May 21st for “Ladies Night Sweat and Flo,” a free, one-hour class with Coach Kay (@callmebigkaaye) and Coach Starlight (@starlightwilliams). Bring a friend, and be sure to donate before or after class: proceeds benefit a DC non-profit focusing on mental health advocacy. [Flow For Good]

[FREE] Barry’s is running its “Friends with Benefits” promotion throughout the month of May. If you’ve already spent time in the Red Room, bring a first-timer friend, and both of you will receive a credit for a future free class. [HITT Up Your Bestie]

[MINDFUL MORNINGS] Have you joined the great Caren Plummer (@careplummer) for Mindful Mornings at The Square yet? If you missed her class this past weekend, don’t worry! You can catch Caren throughout the summer for her free monthly yoga: her next classes are scheduled for June 22nd, July 20th, and August 17th. [Rejuvenate And Relax]

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.