WellcommDC [7.08.24]

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 Hilary Phelps (@hilaryphelps_), an advocate for addiction recovery, a motivational speaker, a holistic wellness coach, and a certified expert in yoga and Pilates.

WellcommDC: Where do you work…out?

Hilary Phelps: I love mixing up my workouts depending on my mood and goals for the day. As a single mom, most of my workouts are done while my son is with me. I'm certified in both yoga and Pilates, and I feel fortunate that I can do these workouts at home when he's with me. I also enjoy outdoor runs or hikes, and you can usually find me doing these on Roosevelt Island, Rock Creek Park, or Great Falls. You can catch a glimpse of my fitness journey and routines on Instagram @hilaryphelps_.

WDC: What does “wellness” mean to you?

HP: Wellness, to me, is all about balance and taking care of yourself in every way possible. It’s not just about hitting the gym but also about eating well, finding mental peace, and doing things that make your soul happy. It’s a holistic approach where your body, mind, and spirit all get some love. It’s about living authentically and feeling good in your own skin. As easy as this sounds, it's such an ongoing, challenging, yet beautiful journey. 

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

HP: In the next year, I’m excited to deepen my mindfulness practices and incorporate more strength training into my routine. I've been studying nervous system regulation and Hakomi, so my plan is to dive deeper into this, as it's where I've experienced my deepest levels of healing. Coming from a regulated nervous system has been one of the most profound wellness tools I've found. I'm excited to deepen my practice, finish certification, and bring it to the women I work with in my coaching practice. 

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

HP: I’m lucky to have some amazing people in my life who inspire and motivate me. Liz Plosser (@lizplosser) is incredible with her dedication to physical fitness and inspires me daily. I admire her as a mom, fitness queen, and incredible human. My good friend Charlie Engle (@charlieengle) has also helped in this space, with his famous quote of "Redefine your relationship with pain." He once said this to Matt Damon, when they were on a run in Central Park, and it's something that has stuck with me whenever I feel like giving up. The women I coach inspire me every day with their strength, fortitude, and determination. And my partner Greg Schindler (@GregShindler) is my rock, always supporting and encouraging me to stay on track, eating well, and working out together. We are also really intentional in our relationship, taking one weekend every few months to disconnect from phones and the outside world to focus on us and what's going on in our life, together.  

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

HP: My good friend and DMV fitness guru Alicia McKenzie (@liftlikeamother) wrote a book called "Balance is Bullshit," and some of my favorite advice comes from that book: start small and be consistent. Pick one or two things you can realistically stick to, like drinking more water or going for a short walk each day. As a former Division I scholarship collegiate swimmer, this was something that was really tough for me to embrace. Any small movement counts; it doesn't have to be a long, grueling, hard work out every day. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and be kind to yourself. It’s also super helpful to find a community or a coach for support and accountability. Remember, wellness is a journey, and every step you take is a step in the right direction. 

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.

[CONGRATULATIONS] Tell Kristyn Gaines (@kristyngaines15) congratulations on three years tapping it back as a SoulCycle instructor. The former UCONN women’s lacrosse star is building a strong fitness following across the DMV. [#TeamKG]

[INFLUENCER ACTIVATION] Nicole (@theclassicnic), a Virginia lifestyle blogger, recently joined the HUSTLE DMV x DC Influence cycle class. Watch her review here. We hear the July DC Influence Happy @ Barcelona Wine Bar on Thursday, July 11th is already SOLD OUT. Register early for their next big activation with 532 Yoga on Sunday, July 28th from 12:30 to 2 PM. Keep building, Melissa Albano (@melissa_albano) and Meg Macey (@megmaffff)! [Class IRL]

[HOT EVENT] Join CRE8TE Wellness for their Wellness 2.0 event the morning (6:30 to 10:30 AM) of Saturday, July 13th at Gateway Park in Rosslyn. Enjoy open time for plunging, dancing with a live DJ, and celebrating with top food, drink, and wellness providers, including lululemon, MightyMeals, GREENHEART, and more. Congratulations to Dan Kain (@danielscottkain), Ciara Miz (@ciaramiz), and Alex Trakas (@lextrax13) on the continued growth and success of CRE8TE Wellness. [Authentic Connection]

[LAUNCH EVENT] Join FRQNCY and The LINE DC on Friday, July 26th, from 5 to 8 PM for Holistic Happy Hour — a rooftop celebration of wellness and community.  The event kicks off with an optional 45-minute community workout led by FRQNCY founder Meghan Gifford (@meggiff) at 5:30 pm, followed by a live DJ, cash bar, and stunning sunset views. Free with RSVP. [Beats and Breath]

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.