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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE
HEALTH + BEAUTY PROFILES • A LONG WEEKEND IN LOUDOUN COUNTY • LOCAL EVENTS • MORE! WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 1
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Washingtonian's Best Real Estate Agent 2018-2021 Northern VA Magazine Best Real Estate Agent 2018-2021 DC Modern Luxury Real Estate Award 2020-2021 2021 RealTrends America's Best Real Estate Professionals Proud Sponsor of Old Town Boutique District 703.851.2556 | kristenjones.com kristen@kristenjones.com | Licensed in VA
109 S. Pitt St, Alexandria, VA 22314 | Equal Housing Opportunity
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VO LU M E 4 • I S S U E 5 P U B L I S H E R / OW N E R KELLIE GUNDERMAN D I R E C TO R O F O P E R AT I O N S / SA L E S C RYS TA L M O S S E R A N D E R S O N E D I TO R A N D R E W G AT E S AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S M A RT H A C A R U C C I K E N N Y WA LT E R S C O U RT N E Y W H I T E S TA F F W R I T E R L I E S E L S C H M I DT P H OTO G R A P H E R S JULIE CARRASCO JEFF HEENEY S A M M I D D L E TO N LU C I A S M I T H K E N N Y WA LT E R S J O S H WAT K I N S DISTRIBUTION TL DISTRIBUTION SOCIAL MEDIA K A N YS H A W I L L I A M S C OV E R P H OTO G R A P H E R J O N AT H A N T H O R P E | @ J T H O R P E P H OTO *Special thanks to our cover models Laura Berrocal + Justin Vélez-Hagan, Ph.D, co-owners of The Joint Chiropractic - Landmark and to our photoshoot location, Building Momentum
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A LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
Sun’s out, fun’s out! … I can't believe we're only halfway through summer. It feels like the party is just getting started but, unfortunately, so is the heat! Heat and humidity can wreak havoc on your hair, so this issue includes some killer tips for hot summer hair (and we’re not JUST talking about the temps). Speaking of looking good, if you want to give that poolside bod a little TLC, we've got the local professionals in the coming pages to help keep you fit, well-adjusted and ready to take on those exciting summer activities like hiking, swimming, kayaking, biking, etc. While we've got your adventurous side's attention, you should also check out our VIP Road Trip! With gas prices soaring, several of our VIP partners wanted to provide you with a long weekend getaway that is just a short car ride away. Use our guide to eat, drink and shop your way through Loudoun County. Just don't forget to share your pics with us on Instagram at @vipalxmag. More of a homebody? We are so excited to share an outdoor oasis, created by award-winning designer Michael Nash Design + Build. These before and after images prove that you don't have to go far to find your very own paradise! As you travel onward into summer and continue to explore the local area or travel beyond our community, be sure to take a moment to take it all in. Look around and realize how far we've come in the past two years. We've experienced unprecedented and difficult times—and continue to face some challenges—but these are the days when we need to remember that we are all in this together and brighter days are ahead.
coming SOON SEPTEMBER 2022
FOOTBALL an� fashio� FEATURING:
fashion section w/ local boutiques and models, tailgating recipes, local and national football schedules & more!
Cheers,
KELLIE GUNDERMAN P U B L I S H E R , V I P A L E X A N D R I A M AG A Z I N E
SALES@VIPALEXANDRIAMAG.COM WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 11
JUL22 the wellness + adventure issue MAINSTAYS 1 6 • VIP Home Tour: More Than Outdoor Living 2 4 • VIP Road Trip: A Long Weekend in Loudoun County, Virginia
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EVENTS 1 9 • Old Town Springtime Art Festival 3 0 • Spectra Credit Union Ribbon Cutting 3 2 • Kristen Jones Flower Class at Boxwood 3 4 • Mount Vernon Wine Festival 3 8 • Swing to Bust Cancer 4 2 • Holistic Hair Studio Open House 4 3 • Wine Gallery 108 Wine Tasting 4 6 • 7 Annual Well Ray Festival th
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6 9 • Nurse's Appreciation Day at Aiyana Atelier 8 4 • A Taste of Del Ray 3 6 • Old Town Business Guide Launch Party 8 8 • Business After Hours at Sonoma Cellar 9 0 • Festival of Speed + Style High Octane Ball 9 3 • Festival of Speed + Style 9 8 • Break Bash at ALX Community
VIP FAMILY
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1 9 • Old Town Springtime Art Festival 2 0 • Smart Snacking: Hidden Truths About Sugar 2 2 • Music Together Alexandria Outdoor Class 2 3 • The Royal Revue Performance
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master hair stylists and spa professionals
glynn jones salon + spa
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 13
JUL22 the wellness + adventure issue VIP PROFILES 3 6 • Brazilian Queen of Alexandria: Ziba Barimani 5 8 • How To Be A Health Advocate: Katie Kissal 6 6 • Winning Bronze: Stefani Pierce 9 4 • Cry Me A City: Ben Fiore-Walker
HEALTH + BEAUTY PROFILES
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4 0 • The Glass Menagerie 4 4 • Holistic Hair Studio 4 8 • Hazel O Hair Studio 5 0 • The Joint Chiropractic Landmark 5 4 • Alexandria Dental Art 5 6 • Good Brows
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6 2 • Back to Health Center 6 4 • Joi Dreams Salon 7 0 • Aiyana Atelier 7 2 • Mindful Modern Living 7 4 • D1 Training Alexandria 7 6 • Cynthia Santana Hair Studio 7 8 • Chiropractic Associates 8 0 • sculp'd 8 2 • Salon deZEN
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Featured property: 820 Rapidan Court
O F T T R S OT H E BY ’S I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E A LT Y
The Patterson Group is amongst the most experienced and trusted real estate teams in the area, serving the Alexandria community for more than 30 years, and proudly ranked as The #1 Small Real Estate Team in Virginia. For those seeking unmatched local expertise, and service that’s as elevated as your standards, choose The Patterson Group. 70 3. 3 1 0.6 2 0 1 PAT T E R S O N R E A L E STAT E .C O M
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 15
Alexandria Brokerage 400 S Washington Streett, 703 310 6800, ©2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. SIR1
V I P H O M E TO U R
More than F E AT U R I N G M I C H A E L N AS H D E S I G N , B U I L D & H O M E S | S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT 16 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE 16 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
V I P H O M E TO U R
The pandemic forced all Americans to reassess how they wanted to live. With the onset of the pandemic, life changed a great deal over the past three years. People reassessed their lives, their work, where they want to live and how to spend their time. In 2020 and 2021, national parks saw a marked increase in activity, the running and cycling industries enjoyed landmark sales and outdoor living became a huge trend. Clearly, people are spending more time outside and families like the Foglias came to the realization that they wanted a home with more outdoor space to enjoy. What they found was a two-acre estate in Vienna, VA with a large home and massive potential for backyard expansion. “They actually bought this home before the pandemic just for the possibility of making the backyard their dream playground,” says Sonny Nazemian, Master Designer of Kitchen/Bath at Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes. “Since the pandemic hit, both the kids and the adults were cooped up at home, so the urgency of this outdoor living space was more imminent. The kids wanted a large pool, the dad wanted a large deck and gazebo and fireplace and the mom wanted her own jacuzzi and large patio.”
People are spending more time outdoors. The challenge came in the fact that their land was full of trees and on hilly ground. Accomplishing their plans meant clearing the lot, relocating utility lines, substantial re-grading and creating some other substantial changes to the landscape. What followed is, of course, the show-stopping dream the family envisioned. “A large, multi-level irregular flagstone patio is the main showcase of the backyard, leading you to [a] secluded WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 17
octagonal gazebo in front of a stone fireplace and outdoor kitchenette with stone walls that wrap around for seating,” says Nazemian. The gazebo is covered with cypress ceiling panels and features a large ceiling fan, recessed lighting and infrared heating elements, all of which make this outdoor living space suitable for all-seasons use." The lower patio features the perfect alcove for a jacuzzi, placed under the covered deck just above it for the perfect amount of shade and privacy. The staircase leads to an upper-level Trex decking area adjacent to the kitchen and family room of the house. “This deck space gives the family the opportunity to entertain off of the main level and overlook the beautiful backyard and pool,” says Nazemian.
"It's a stunning outdoor oasis that is especially breathtaking after sunset..." - S O N N Y N A Z E M I A N , M AS T E R D E S I G N E R
Working in tandem with the pool company, the team at Michael Nash created a heated pool and graffiti waterfall rock behind it. The surrounding pool deck was created with flagstone and contrasting stone retaining walls. “All of it combined to make this backyard the most prestigious of all the homes in the neighborhood,” Nazemian notes. “The choice[s] of irregular flagstone, grey tigerwood decking with contrasting rails and trims, heated patio and gazebo space, outdoor jacuzzi, fireplace and kitchenette are incredible features in this backyard. It’s a stunning outdoor oasis that is especially breathtaking after sunset with all of the lights on. It couldn’t come at a better time for kids to enjoy the pool and have friends over, offering relief from the cabin fever that everyone has been experiencing. The family can’t get enough of this patio.” 18 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
O L D TOW N S P R I N G T I M E A R T F E S T I VA L P H OTO G R A P H Y BY LU C I A S M I T H
The 2nd Annual Alexandria Old Town Springtime Art Festival was recently held outdoors at John Carlyle Square. All artwork featured at this event is curated to ensure a higher level of quality, diversity and creativity of art on display. To learn more, visit www.artfestival.com.
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 19
V I P FA M I LY
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SMART SNACKING
Hidden Truths About Sugar Brought to you by Greater Washington Dentistry
You shouldn’t think of dental care as just cleanings and you certainly shouldn’t wait to go to the dentist until something is wrong. Building a positive relationship with your dentist is crucial. State of the art technology and accommodations should make your visit an enjoyable experience, not a chore. The American Dental Association recommends that everyone visit their dentist for an exam and cleaning at least once a year, and preferably once every six months. The days of cold, dreary dental offices are a thing of the past.
Here are some healthy ways to satisfy your sweet tooth:
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Incorporate more fruits into your diet. Fruit salads are a creative way to do so!
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Smoothies are another fun way to get the nutrients fruits are packed with while enjoying a sweet and refreshing pick-me-up.
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Similar to the rest of your body, your teeth and gums have the best chance of being healthy when you’re eating a wellbalanced, nutritious diet. Particularly one low in sugars and processed foods.
Natural yogurts and dairy products can be a delicious snack, but also contain calcium and casein which protect our teeth and help prevent cavities from happening.
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Finding healthy alternatives to unhealthy snacks is the best way to make balanced eating a part of your lifestyle. This not only helps limit the calories we pack on, but also prevents the accumulation of disease-causing bacteria in the oral cavity.
Incorporate naturally occurring sugars such as xylitol and sorbitol which come in the form of gum and powdered sweeteners. These can be found at your local grocery store!
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Remember to have regularly scheduled checkups and to have a comfortable, open dialogue with your dentist. Good oral health plays a big factor in being in good overall health.
Sugar is addicting and is one of the main cavity causing factors. The more sugar we consume, the more we crave it. To limit one's intake, try cutting it out for a few days and notice how you start to crave it less and less. We’re not using sugar the way we used to. Before, natural sugars were used to sweeten foods and drinks. Natural sugars have now been replaced with processed sugars in the form of artificial sweeteners. Understanding the differences between good and bad sugars can help us make better decisions in terms of the foods we consume. Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar from plants that is actually good for us. It prevents the development of cavities while delivering the same delicious flavor we desire when craving something sweet. So, chewing xylitol gum or candies after meals can replace that sweet fix we crave.
Dr. Shohreh Sharif D.D.S., FAAPD, FICD
Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Associate Professor, Howard University College of Dentistry Diplomate, American Orthodontic Society (703) 992-9222 | www.washingtondentist.com
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 21
M U S I C TO G E T H E R A L E X A N D R I A O U T D O O R C L AS S P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J E F F H E E N E Y
Music Together Alexandria recently invited VIP Alexandria Magazine to experience a fun, fabulous, uplifting and magical day outdoors with parents and their children. Each week, babies, toddlers, preschoolers, big kids and the grownups that love them gather to make music together. To learn more about Music Together Alexandria or how you and your children can join in on the fun, visit www.musictogetheralexandria.com.
Alexandria p n u ss Sig cla a ! for oday t
Sing, Dance, Play, Learn! Join Us for a Fun-filled Music Together® Class Sing, wiggle, and jam along with your baby, toddler, or preschooler every week. Save a spot for your family at a class near you! Del Ray • Seminary Hill www.MusicTogetherAlexandria.com • (571) 494-1869
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T H E R OYA L R E V U E P H OTO G R A P H Y BY K E N N Y WA LT E R S
Alexandria's Metropolitan School of the Arts recently hosted The Royal Revue. 450 cast members spent six months preparing for the annual spring production, which consisted of six performances over four days. Audiences were thrilled and overcome with pride for the young performers who worked so hard to bring such joy and excitement to our community. To learn more, visit www.metropolitanarts.com.
F O R M O R E P I C T U R E S F R O M T H I S E V E N T, V I S I T W W W.V I PA L E X A N D R I A M AG . C O M / E V E N T S WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 23
V I P R OA D T R I P
Story by Liesel Schmidt
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I
f you’re like 99.9 percent of the population with a driver’s license and functioning wheels, you’ve probably been stalking gas prices like Carrie Bradshaw stalks a pair of Jimmy Choos. But while none of us can do anything about the increasing costs at the pump, we can still enjoy our summer—and have a getaway that doesn’t cost as much as our mortgages just to fill up. Take a look at our VIP Road Trip Itinerary for an awesome weekend in Loudon County, filled with fun ways to keep the whole fam happy.
Friday
heading out to explore the Middleburg boutiques. Horse lovers will love stopping in the Tack Box, Inc., a quintessential equestrian shop that just screams Middleburg. Riders will find everything they need at the stables, with all tack and dressage essentials covered. From tall riding boots and show coats to paddock boots and outwear, they’ll outfit your every desire, along with your horse’s; from coolers to barn blankets and bits. For a little fun, check out the Fun Shop, a two-story destination for everything from housewares and Christmas décor to toys and books. For all things Hunt Country, this is one shop you’ll want to explore. For a sweet treat along the way, head to Scruffy’s Ice Cream Parlor, where you’ll find just what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. From milkshakes and sundaes to floats and classic cones, Scruffy’s has the perfect flavor for your craving.
FOUR-COURSE SEAFOOD DINNER
For a seasonally-inspired, chef-driven dinner, the Red Fox Inn and Tavern offers a four-course menu featuring unique game and seafood dishes that combine traditional cooking techniques with seasonality. Boasting an impressively-paired wine list, the Red Fox also showcases a wide selection of local beverages as well as national and international favorites. From elegant dinners in the Tavern to hand-crafted cocktails in the Night Fox Pub, your experience will be unforgettable.
T H E R E S O R T ( C H E C K- I N T I M E )
“Friday, I’m in love…” Time to leave work behind and hit the road! Check out this Black-owned, award-winning resort less than 50 miles away via I-495 S and US-50 W. Luxury at its finest, Salamander Resort boasts two prestigious five-star ratings by the Forbes Travel Guide, one of which was awarded to Salamander Spa, the only five-star spa in Virginia. The 168room resort is among the most iconic and celebrated properties worldwide and is located on 340 picturesque acres in the midst of Virginia’s famed horse and wine country. More than just a lavish stay, Salamander offers unique, immersive experiences including Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill, a cooking studio, a culinary garden, a tree-top zip line tour and an equestrian center with a riding arena. The Salamander Spa offers unique, customized health and wellness treatments that are integrative, regionalized, holistic and result-driven. The spa’s private stone treatment terraces, aromatic steam rooms, well-appointed changing areas, sun-lit relaxation spaces, a sumptuous couple's S W I M + R E L A X suite and a secluded spa courtyard with an elegant infinity-edge After dinner, head back to Salamander for an evening swim at the resort pool. pool and cabanas create the perfect nature-inspired retreat.
WINE BAR / BOUTIQES / ICE CREAM
Check into your suite at the Salamander Resort and sip a glass of wine and nosh on sushi at their Gold Cup Wine Bar before
Saturday
C O F F E E + PA S T R I E S
Wake up! It’s time for coffee and pastries at Middleburg Common Grounds, where you’ll find the perfect way to start your day. From coffee beverages to sweet or savory delights from the bakery, you’ll have a new favorite way to spend a lazy Saturday morning.
H I S TO R I C A L TO U R
Love exploring the past? Check out Mount Defiance Historic Park, a Civil War site that was key to the Battle of Middleburg. Historic Civil War-era buildings including a blacksmith's shop and cottage stand just where they stood during the battle, offering cover for the warring soldiers. Check out the grounds of Mt. Defiance on a walking path that traverses the property WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 25
and provides historic markers detailing the battle’s events. To add some fun to your exploration of the area, print out the park’s scavenger hunt and hit the road for your own adventure!
F R E S H OYS T E R S + C R A F T C O C K TA I L S
Getting hungry? Take a break to shower and head out to Leesburg for lunch, where you’ll find King Street Oyster’s spectacular menu of fresh oysters, seafood and craft cocktails.
W I N E RY C O N C E RT S E R I E S
As the evening winds down, get your groove on at Tarrara Winery’s Summer Concert Series in Leesburg. Starting at 6:00 p.m., enjoy the musical talents of local bands performing hits from some of your favorite artists and some of the best eras in music. Food trucks are on site to satisfy your hunger, so check out the variety of food from some of the area’s mobile chefs. The concert series runs through September 24. Gates open Saturdays at 5:00 p.m. Concerts are held from 6:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
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Sunday
P E R S O N A L I Z E D FAC I A L
Pamper yourself on the last day of the weekend with an early-morning personalized massage or facial at Salamander Spa. Designed to recharge and revitalize your skin, the menu of facials at Salamander Spa are as beneficial as they are luxurious. For tired, tense muscles, their massages relax and release you to just breathe and recenter.
M A R K E T B R E A K FA S T
Post pampering, grab a quick carryout breakfast from Salamander Market. Their kitchen offers great breakfast sandwiches, offering your choice of scratch-made buttermilk biscuits, English muffins, toast or tortillas. From simple egg and cheddar to chicken sausage, egg and cheddar, the sandwiches are sure to brighten your morning. Looking for something more substantial? The kitchen also offers everything from chicken and waffles to Grand Marnier French toast.
D I S T I L L E RY TO U R + TA S T I N G
Now that you’re fueled up for your day, head out to Purceville for a tour and tasting at Catoctin Creek Distilling Co. This historic old building is full of charm—and definitely lots of whiskey. Enjoy a tasting flight of whiskey, brandy, gin or cocktails from the distillery. Tour the facility to see just how the magic happens. Tours occur on the hour each day. Before you leave, stock up on your favorites from the Catoctin Creek label.
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B B Q + LO C A L B E E R
Next up is lunch. Let your nose guide you to Monk’s BBQ, where the brisket is so tender and juicy, you’ll be a fan forever. With a menu offering meats cooked low and slow, the restaurant is all about family and tradition. The restaurant has a wide selection of locallybrewed beer and an impressive list of bourbons that pair perfectly with that pile of barbecue you’re about to dig into.
POOL TIME / DINNER WITH A VIEW
Relax by the pool at Salamander and recharge a little before you head back out to dinner at the Restaurant at Patowmack Farm. One of the first farm restaurants in the U.S., the menu of New American cuisine is created with ingredients sourced on-site. As stunning as the food is, so is the view of the Potomac from the all-glass dining room. This is one meal you’ll never forget—and the perfect way to end the perfect weekend.
TA R A R A S U M M E R C O N C E R T S E R I E S P H OTO G R A P H Y S U B M I T T E D BY J E F F H E E N E Y
In Loudoun County at Tarara Winery, the Tarara Summer Concert Series has been rockin’ since 1999! Bands from all over the country bring their music to the festival with genres including 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s, Disco, Country, Rock 'n Roll, Yacht Rock, Classic Rock and beyond! The concerts, which take place every Saturday through Labor Day weekend at Shadow Lake, are perfect for families, couples, corporate parties, reunions and birthday parties. VIP was recently invited to experience the show and the band, wine and food did not disappoint! Check out a few of our pictures from this exciting event and be sure to set aside a Saturday to head out to Tarara Winery before the season comes to a close. www.tararaconcerts.com
T H E R E ' S N O P L AC E L I K E H O M E
Yes, you guessed it… Monday means it's time to head home. But stay tuned for more VIP getaways that will make you feel like you’ve escaped to somewhere special. 28 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
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SPECTRA RIBBON CUTTING P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J E F F H E E N E Y
During the Spectra Credit Union ribbon-cutting celebration for their Alexandria branch, ten "Stella Educators" were announced. Each received $500 from Spectra for the spectacular work they do in our local schools. Spectra Credit Union is located at 1460 N. Beauregard St. in The Shop @ Mark Center. To learn more, visit
www. spectracu.com.
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F LOW E R C L AS S W / K R I S T E N J O N E S P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J D WAT K I N S
Alexandria real estate agent, Kristen Jones, recently hosted a flower class at Boxwood for her beloved friends and clients. The class was taught by DC based small business, Stem Soiree, which provided all supplies. Guests learned how to source, process, arrange flowers and had the opportunity to design their own arrangement like a professional. This marked the first workshop in Old Town Alexandria for Stem Soiree. To learn more about Stem Soiree, visit www.stemsoiree.com. To explore all upcoming workshops at Boxwood, visit www.boxwoodoldtown.com To get in touch with Kristen Jones about buying or selling a home in Northern Virginia, email kristen@kristenjones.com.
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 33
S P R I N G W I N E F E ST I VA L + S U N S E T TO U R P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J D WAT K I N S
Mount Vernon's most popular event of the year recently returned. The Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour provides guests with access to dozens of Virginia wineries, shopping, concessions and tours. To learn more about Mount Vernon's upcoming events, visit www.mountvernon.org.
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NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITES! This is not your typical Readers’ Choice Awards. At VIP, we are celebrating the individuals who are using their own passions, drive, goodwill, talents and love of community to make our city the best place to live, work + play! With more than 50 categories, there are so many VIPs to nominate! But don‘t worry, nominating is quick and easy! Scan the QR code below to view the categories and nominate! We will accept nominations through August 12th and then the voting begins! It all leads up to a formal occasion where the winners will be celebrated at the 1st Annual VIP Alexandria Magazine Fire + Ice Ball!
W W W.V I PA L E X A N D R I A M AG . C O M / V I P- C H O I C E - AWA R D S WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 35
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S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT P H OTO G R A P H Y C O U RT E S Y O F G LY N N J O N E S S A LO N
If you’re like most women these days, the idea of going— ahem—au naturel isn’t something that appeals, especially during bathing suit season. Many women therefore break out the razor and go to town on every inch of hair. Others, however, leave all of that to someone else—like an expert who knows how to apply wax to those trouble zones and can rip it off with clinical detachment. Or, better yet, someone who has the skill to give you a wax treatment that is as pain-free and pleasant as possible with the personality of a trusted friend. For Ziba Barimani of Glynn Jones, that finesse and ability is the very thing that makes her the “Brazilian Queen of Alexandria.” Boasting 30 years in the spa industry, Barimani has been a great asset to the Glynn Jones team over the past 18 years, bringing her expertise and passion for her work into each and every client interaction. “Over and above the beforeand-after aesthetic results that I witness with each client, I love the friendships that I have forged with them,” she says. “I have been blessed with clients who are kind and generous in spirit. Often, a family member or friend is referred to me. The greatest compliment is when I receive an invitation to a client's home for drinks or a meal. That's why my job does not feel like a job—rather, it is an expression of art, fun and friendship.” Like anyone with a love for their work as deep as Barimani’s, her “why” begins with a personal connection. “I first became fascinated with electrolysis when I visited my sister in London around 35 years ago,” she says. “She invited me to the salon where she worked as a beauty therapist, and most of her clientele were women interested in permanent or semi-permanent hair removal. Beside my fascination with electrolysis, which was at the time a novel method for hair
removal, I became engrossed in the intimate conversations between my sister and her clients. On more than one occasion, a client would confide in my sister, and it seemed that, by the end of the treatment, the client's spirits were lifted not just because she was happy with the result, but [because] she had also been able to unburden her anxieties. That's when I learned that this profession is more than just aesthetic; it can be a very enriching experience for the therapist and the client.” At the time, waxing was not a popular treatment simply because it was not as known in the West. This was where Barimani’s foresight came into play. “I introduced waxing, which has existed as part of a woman's hygiene and beauty practices in the East for centuries, to my clients, who fell in love with the results,” she says. “Slowly, waxing became standard practice and is now one of the most popular hair removal treatments. I apply this procedure with exact precision and use the best quality wax, which causes no pain. I am also super-efficient and hygienic with my work.” With each booking, Barimani offers the same attention to personal care and ability that puts her clients at ease and provides the most comfortable experience. “My clients can expect efficiency and gentle precision in the treatment itself,” she says. “I also have unconditional regard for all my clients and I strive to meet their requests and needs in a respectful and kind manner. With first-time clients, I greet them and explain briefly what the process will involve. I then leave the room so that they can comfortably prepare for treatment in complete privacy. After a few minutes, I knock on the door to make sure they are ready for me to go in. At every step along the way, I explain to them what I am going to do next and what they can expect. With my regular clients, I have learned what their preferences are so I can anticipate what will make them the most comfortable.”
G LY N N J O N E S S A L O N + S PA • 7 2 0 K I N G S T. • 7 0 3 . 5 4 9 . 4 0 0 0 • G LY N N J O N E S S A L O N . C O M WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 37 WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 37
S W I N G TO B U S T C A N C E R P H OTO G R A P H Y BY LU C I A S M I T H
Swing to Bust Cancer is a golf and tennis tournament that is held simultaneously. This annual charity event not only raises money for the National Breast Center Foundation but also increases awareness and celebrates survivorship. To learn more, visit www.swingtobustcancer.org.
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Calm Soothe your mind
your spirit
Ten Thousand Villages is commiied to seeing people and planet thrive. Therefore, we source incense from fair trade partners around the world who uulize only sustainably sourced ingredients like natural essennal oils for fragrance, a tree resin natural adhesive and bamboo sscks. Stop by today to find your favorite scents!
915 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314 tenthousandvillages.com/alexandria | (703) 684-1435 WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 39
Christine is an award-winning stylist who started her training in Northern VA, continuing her education with courses from New York to Los Angeles. At age 16 she competed in VICA Cosmetology competitions that took her to the national level where she bested over half the competitors.
The Glass Menagerie is a Sola Salons studio location allowing Christine the freedom to provide a private salon setting for her clients. The Glass Menagerie is originally a stage play by Tennessee Williams with themes many find depressing, however Christine has always found the general concepts of the play to be inspiring. Her takeaway has been that life may not always be perfect, but we do what we can to make living enjoyable and work through the struggles we encounter with meaningful distractions. Welcome to The Glass Menagerie. We’re here to distract. Christine’s signature service is hair extensions. They are available for length, thickness, color, and fantasy applications. She also works as a hair extension educator and as a mentor, helping other stylists think outside the box and advance themselves fully.
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6487 Old Beulah Street Suite #12 (Sola Salon) Alexandria VA 22315
I have been going to Christine for a few years now. I always joke that nobody else is allowed to touch my hair ... and I mean it. She is an expert at extensions (does them for a friend of mine) but I go for the cut, color, & styling. She has a way of highlighting that blends in with your natural hair color so you can't even notice them even starting to grow out for months! Christine is easy to talk to and a lot of fun during the appointments. Always there to give great hair (and life) advice & ideas. She has a few 'magic touches', I call them, that I have never seen before but greatly appreciate! Never will push buying products on you but will let you know which ones would work best with your hair & style.
WHY
CAN YOU TELL WHERE HER REAL HAIR STOPS?... GOOD. NEITHER CAN WE.
HOW
SCHEDULE ONLINE AT WWW.CHRISTINERINEHART.COM/THEGLASSMENAGERIE @ChrissyDoesHair
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 41
W I N E G A L L E RY 1 0 8 W I N E TA ST I N G P H OTO G R A P H Y BY S A M M I D D L E TO N
Wine Gallery 108 invited guests to enjoy a very special wine tasting with Andrew Tow of the WIthers Winery, featuring five cool climate wines from the Sonoma Coast and Sierra Foothills. Wine Gallery 108 hosts wine tastings frequently. For updates, please visit them on Facebook at www.fb.com/winegallery108
VIRGINIA IS WINE COUNTRY
Explore the array of Virginia wines and more at Wine Gallery 108 108 N Patrick St, Alexandria, VA 22314 Www.winegallery108.com
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H O L I ST I C H A I R S T U D I O O P E N H O U S E P H OTO G R A P H Y BY LU C I A S M I T H
Holistic Hair Studio recently hosted an open house, featuring tours, product demonstrations, wine by Wine Gallery 108 and shopping with The Naked Face cosmetics. Holistic Hair Studio is one of the only organic salons in Northern Virginia and is proud to be a certified Green Circle Salon as well as partner of Children with Hair Loss. Book your appointment online today at www.holistichairstudio.com
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 43
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
get your grow on solutions to hair loss and thinning S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
Contrary to what one might think, hair loss isn’t strictly related to genetics. It can be related to other factors including diet, hormones, even stress. If you’ve kept up with world events lately, there’s plenty to be stressed about—and our scalps have been showing the effects. Fortunately, there are solutions to hair loss and thinning that don’t require medical intervention or any kind of radical procedures. Simply put, it’s a method called hair retention. “Hair retention is the process of maintaining hair density and new growth on the scalp,” explains Leah Lattus, who opened the doors of Holistic Hair Studio to Alexandria in 2021. “Hair grows from a root of a follicle located under the skin and the average hair growth on the scalp is about a half-inch per month or six inches in a year. If you are experiencing a lack of growth or hair loss, hair retention may be the solution for you.” A family-friendly salon offering haircuts, full-coverage color, balayage, highlights and special occasion hairstyling, Holistic Hair Studio is an organic hair salon that delivers holistic care with each service. With 20 years of experience in the industry,
the team of professionals uses products that are completely organic, fair trade, gluten and soy-free, vegan and cruelty-free. “There is no ammonia, resorcinol or PPD in our products and they deliver excellent results with major health benefits to hair and skin,” says Lattus. Holistic Hair Studio is also a certified Green Circle salon. Most of their beauty waste is recycled, from hair clippings to left-over color mixtures. In addition, the salon partners with Children with Hair Loss, providing human hair replacement to children enduring medically-related hair loss. Hair loss, in fact, is something that Holistic Hair Studio has seen increase over the past few years. “COVID-19’s lasting effects have been known to cause hair loss,” says Lattus. “There has been a massive escalation in the need for our solution.” That solution is, as with all of the products and treatments at Holistic Hair, clean and organic. “We carry an organic, clean chemistry hair retention system for salon treatments and for athome use,” Lattus notes. “This system, when used consistently, brings blood flow to the follicle, which will supply the root with oxygen and nutrients. This is what the hair needs to grow.” And while you may be a little less than completely convinced, the results speak for themselves. “Our hair retention system by Oway has had wonderful reviews from the people who have tried it as a solution to their lack of growth or thinning hair,” Lattus contends. “Currently, it is our salon’s number one take-home product. Those who purchase have had great results and come back to purchase more. After two months of consistent use, we see greater hair density and the speed of growth increase[s].” Side effects such as scalp irritation are uncommon, but may occur. For those with sensitive scalps, there is a spray remedy formulated if the scalp has irritation prior to treatment. For greatest efficacy, the at-home spray remedy needs to be applied consistently every day. The in-salon treatments are recommended monthly.
H O L I S T I C H A I R S T U D I O • 1 4 3 3 P O W H ATA N S T. • 7 0 3 . 4 7 3 . 6 8 6 4 • @ H O L I S T I C H A I R S T U D I OA L E X A N D R I A
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HAIRCUTS FULL-COVERAGE BALAYAGE HIGHLIGHTS SPECIAL OCCASION HAIR STYLING
NORTHERN VIRGINIA’S TOP ORGANIC HAIR SALON
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA HOLISTIC HAIR STUDIO • 1433 POWHATAN ST. • 703.473.6864 • HOLISTICHAIRSTUDIO.COM WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 45
7 T H A N N UA L W E L L R AY F E S T I VA L P H OTO G R A P H Y BY LU C I A S M I T H
On June 11, the Del Ray Business Association presented the seventh annual Well Ray Festival, a celebration of health and wellness. Health and lifestyle inspired vendors setup along Mt. Vernon Avenue, wellness and holistic health practitioners offered services including therapeutic massages, acupuncture, physical therapy consultations and more! Free outdoor fitness classes were also available, including yoga, dance, pilates and classes for kids! VIP Alexandria Magazine was proud to be the sponsor of the Well Ray Photo Booth, managed by VIP photographer Kenny Walters! If you had your picture taken with us, be sure to scan the QR code below to locate and download your complimentary image!
SCAN HERE FOR PICS FROM THE VIP ROCKS P H OTO B O OT H ! SPECIAL THANKS TO MARILYN PATTERSON OF JOYOUS EVENTS FOR DESIGNING OUR VIP ROCKS PHOTO BOOTH
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 47
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
color my world how to properly care for your color-treated hair S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
If you’re like most people, you look in the mirror at your natural hair color and think that it could use a little something; a little zhuzh, maybe a little boost to make it not quite so run-of-themill. After all, your hair is your crowning glory, or it could be if someone who knew what they were doing got their hands on it. So you get the perfect cut, then comes the fun part: the color. There are some rules of thumb to keep in mind as you embark in this journey to color-treated bombshellness. First, consider that some colors fade faster than others. “Unnatural tones— fashion colors or colors that are opposite to your hair’s natural
tones—as well as reds and ashy tones all fade more quickly than others will,” says Alexus Bermudez, Director of Education at Hazel O. Salon. Naturally, there are also colors and tones that require more maintenance. “Blondes and reds require the most maintenance of all,” says Bermudez. “These colors require a visit to the salon every four weeks for toner and every eight weeks for color. Mineral buildup is more apparent with these colors, so they really require appropriate at-home care to keep them looking their best and most vibrant.” The key to great color-treated hair really comes down to two words: proper care. Starting at day one, what you do with your color-treated hair will affect how it looks. “Newly-colored hair should ideally not be shampooed for the first 48 hours after coloring,” Bermudez advises. From there, proper use of products is the next big thing. “Color is best maintained with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner recommended by the stylist,” Bermudez says. “We recommend Chroma Riche shampoo and conditioner as well as Soin Acide at-home treatment for shine. Other products we recommend at the salon are the Kerastase Chroma line and color specific Fusio Doses by Kerastase. Depending on the color, we’d also recommend avoiding hot water as well.” One big concern for color treated hair—especially with the intensity of the summer sun and the punishing effects of heat styling—is fade out. For the prevention of fade out, Bermundez recommends products like sulfate and paraben free shampoo and conditioner as well as Chroma Thermique by Kerastase, which is a heat protectant. In addition, Bermundez warns to avoid hard water or use a filter.
H A Z E L O S A LO N • 1 0 8 N WA S H I N G T O N S T. • 7 0 3 . 5 6 6 . 6 3 6 7 • @ H A Z E LO S A LO N
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LOCAL OFFICE Matthew McCarthy | 703-236-1366 4617 Duke St ¡Hablamos Español! Fun under the sun is calling! Your local GEICO agent in Alexandria could help you save, which means extra money for summer adventures. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 49
C O - OW N E R L AU R A B E R R O C A L | C O - OW N E R J U S T I N V É L E Z- H AG A N | S E V I N C H M A M A R A JA B OVA 50 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
Let's Get Cracking!
THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC - LANDMARK RECOMMEND THESE FUN + SAFE SUMMER ACTIVITIES S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT | P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J O N AT H A N T H O R P E
O P E R AT I O N S M A N AG E R R OW E N A V É L E Z | D R . C A R LO S P L A N AS , D. C . , | D R . R O I K E TA S T R A N D, D. C . WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 51
Chiropractic care is an alternative medicine practice that has been around for centuries. From various musculoskeletal issues and neurological pain to immune function and improvement of internal systems, getting a chiropractic adjustment can have a major impact on one's quality of life. That impact was the very thing that led Justin Velez-Hagan to invest in the Joint Chiropractic. “After the military, I found that chiropractic care [was] the only cure for my back issues and [I] subsequently fell in love with the practice, especially the opportunity to heal people without the need for surgery or the band-aid of potentially addictive opioids,” says Velez-Hagan, an economist and business investor who holds investments in several businesses along with his wife, Laura Berrocal. “After visiting my chiropractor one day, I pitched my wife the idea of improving the typical chiropractic healthcare clinic model. I loved chiropractic, but having to make appointments, rely upon insurance approvals, visit inconvenient locations and take time off from work to visit during awkward hours became such a hassle to me that I neglected my healthcare, like so many others do. So I investigated the process of ‘reinventing’ chiropractic care, hoping to improve existing business practices. During this process, we came across the Joint Chiropractic, a franchisor with more than 750 clinics around the country, doing exactly what we wanted to do: open locations in super convenient shopping centers with night and weekend hours, the ability to walk in whenever a patient wants and a pricing structure that anyone can afford without the need to deal with insurance companies. Our prices are typically more affordable than a copay.” Having opened the Joint Landmark, their first clinic, in March of 2022, Velez-Hagan and his wife have plans to open their second location in Burke by August of 2022, with a third in development in Annandale. And while it may be a franchise, there’s nothing cut-rate about their team. “Our chiropractors have various degrees of experience, from a few years to decades, but all have four-year medical degrees and are licensed and monitored by the same state medical boards as all doctors,” Velez-Hagan notes.
"... virtually everyone can benefit from consistent care to maintain proper alignment and body functionality." - Justin Velez-Hagan, Co-Owner The Joint Chiropractic - Landmark With regards to how often chiropractic adjustments should be made, Velez-Hagan says, “Recommended adjustment frequency depends on several factors and an individual’s needs. During our consultations, our doctors always put together a custom treatment plan based on their assessments. Most patients go through the three basic stages of relief, recovery and wellness. During the relief stage, pain, discomfort and motion restrictions are addressed and eliminated, often requiring multiple visits per week in combination with other home therapies such as ice and stretching. During the recovery stage, healing is promoted by maintaining proper communication throughout the body to ensure pain and discomfort are kept at bay. It is often easy for chiropractors to eliminate those discomforts, but consistent, continued visits of once or twice per week help a patient through the muscle and tissue recovery stage, strengthening muscles and joints to ensure pain doesn’t return. Even after patients get to the wellness stage, virtually everyone can benefit from consistent care to maintain proper alignment and body functionality. Everyday activities can affect our alignment and lead to multiple forms of health side effects, so maintenance plans are almost always recommended. Combined with a balanced diet and exercise, there are so many benefits to overall well-being through continued chiropractic care.” With the onslaught of summer, some of those “everyday activities” that adversely affect alignment can change, but there are still many chiropractor-approved summer activities that won’t send you screaming for an adjustment. “Our doctors always recommend good stretching techniques and exercise practices that enhance flexibility while improving strength, such as yoga, walking or hiking, swimming, biking and other low-impact exercises,” says Velez-Hagan. 52 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
1. Aquacise
Water training exercises are low impact and great for strengthening your muscles. This type of exercise includes treading water, standup paddle-boarding and pool sports such as pool volleyball.
2. Body Weight Strength Training
Strength training helps build muscles and improves muscle tone. Those muscles protect and support your joints and heavy weights are not required for results. Body weight exercises are ideal for building muscle in a low-impact way, which is great for anyone suffering from joint pain.
3. Fruit and Veggie Picking
Picking patches at produce farms provide the perfect summer activity. Your joints will get a light workout at the same time as you stock your crisper, plus it’s a relaxing way to enjoy being outdoors.
4. Get Walking
Traveling is a great time to go on a casual walking tour. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be done at your own pace and also helps heart health.
5. Go Swimming
Swimming is the quintessential summer activity and a great way to exercise for anyone of any age because it’s so low impact. Spoiler alert: it not only cools you down during the intense summer heat, but it also helps alleviate back pain and improves your muscle strength.
6. Hang out in a Hammock
Here’s one that anyone will love: chilling out in a hammock. Lay back and raise your legs in your hammock, which will help your circulation. The flexibility of the hammock also allows your body to relax the back and joints, which combats inflammation and relieves joint pain.
7. Ride a Bike
Get out and explore on a bicycle. It’s low-impact on your joints— just watch your posture, stay hydrated and take breaks if you feel you need them.
8. Stretch
Duh. Really, this is something ALL of us need to do before any strenuous activity, during every season of the year. Cycle through a series of stretches to warm up your body, which will reduce the risk of injury to your muscles and joints.
9. Strike a Pose
Yoga involves a series of poses, breathing techniques and meditation that help clear the mind and relax the body to put you in tune with your body’s health.
10. Take a Hike
Hiking is a great way to appreciate the outdoors while you exercise. Make sure to take your time and use walking sticks for challenging hikes. Pack light backpacks or fanny packs with only essentials to avoid overloading or straining muscles and joints. “Hiking is great for your back,” says Velez-Hagan. “Our doctors always recommend some form of exercise to maintain good bone, spine and joint health, combined with muscle strengthening to support the musculoskeletal system.” WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 53
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
summer smiles top 5 tips for dental safety and protection this season S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
Summer is in full swing, which means you’re probably looking at a calendar filled with vacations, excursions and all kinds of fun activities that have you out and about. As great as summer is, all the things that come with it can come with a price—to your oral health, believe it or not. Still, there are ways to ensure that your gums, teeth and total mouth stay in tip-top shape, even with all the excitement of summer. HYDRATE AND WATCH WHAT YOU EAT Staying hydrated is important to oral health as well as your overall health. Avoid drinks high in sugar and acid and be aware that carbonated beverages, fruit juices and energy drinks can be harmful for your oral health. Sipping them throughout the day risks tooth decay and dental erosion. The foods you eat also play a factor in tooth decay. “People consume more sugarrich foods and drinks during the summer months,” says Dr. Shaghayegh Madani of Alexandria Dental Art. “This includes ice cream, frozen desserts, slushies, cocktails, soft drinks and juices.” STICK TO YOUR NORMAL DENTAL ROUTINE Whether you’re out late with friends or just watching Netflix at home, make sure you don’t abandon your dental routine. Keeping your mouth healthy is always a priority, so don’t skip brushing just because you’re off your normally-scheduled programming. Make sure you brush twice a day and always remember to floss. BE PREPARED As much fun as it can be, summer can also be extremely hectic—which is why being focused on oral health before something goes wrong is important. Make sure you book your regular dentist appointment and keep it, even with all the traveling you may have scheduled. This ensures that any small problems can be treated early and don’t leave you needing emergency treatment while you’re away from home.
USE YOUR TEETH WISELY Do you crunch ice or open things like bottles or packets with your teeth? Don’t. Doing those things puts oral health at risk. Don’t even use them to hold or carry things when you’ve got too many things in your hands. Accidents happen when you’re not using your teeth for their intended use. GET SOME SUN AND PLAY SMART Sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which helps your immune system. It also helps prevent gum disease. Get a safe amount of sun and wear sunscreen on your body, but also protect your lips. If you’re playing sports, Dr. Madani suggests wearing a mouth guard. “This will keep your teeth safe and healthy while enjoying these activities.”
A L E X A N D R I A D E N TA L A R T • 1 0 0 1 N . FA I R FA X S T. , S U I T E 1 0 0 • 7 0 3 . 5 6 6 . 8 7 9 9 • @ A L E X A N D R I A D E N TA L A R T
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 55
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
going full brow microblading vs. microshading S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
If you’re old enough to remember the ’90s with a clear head, you probably remember the eyebrows: full, healthy brows that somehow rocked the line between completely natural and meticulously tweezed and gave any of us who made the mistake of over-plucking absolute brow envy. And in as many trends that have come and gone in the past 30 years, we’ve returned to a place of brow love, where we celebrate full brows and will pay top dollar to achieve wowworthy brows. Admittedly, cosmetic companies have come a long way in their brow enhancements: brow pencils and powders and even precision tools that can give the look of full brows without the painted-on look. Even so, longevity remains an issue, and unless you don’t mind the investment of time getting your brows just so every morning, you’re probably looking for a solution that’ll outlast the day. Enter microshading. For those of us who aren’t familiar, microshading is a procedure in which a cosmetic technician applies tattoo pigment to your eyebrows. Essentially a form of tattooing, microshading involves the use of pigment and a handheld tool that places tiny, pin-like dots over the brow area to give a soft brow look. This method helps shape your brow and creates a powdered effect that adds fullness. “The tails of the brow are slightly darker and fade into a light start at the beginning of the brow,” explains Simone Fennell, a visual and master brow artist whose decade-plus experience in the industry is the driving force behind her company, Good Brows. “With microshading, a soft, pixelated shading is created and often times can be blended in with your natural hair to create a seamless look.” For clients with oily skin, microshading can be the best option. One thing to note is that the results generally last one to two years before needing to be retouched. A second option—and one perhaps more well-known than microshading—is microblading. Using a bladed tool to apply pigmentation underneath the skin, brows are filled and shaped
by making hair-like strokes that mimic the look of natural eyebrow hair. “Microblading allows you to apply strokes directly into thin spaces in your brow,” Fennell notes. This gives a more targeted approach to eyebrows that may need specific areas to be enhanced. Like microshading, microblading lasts one to two years before it needs to be retouched. Essentially with either choice, the benefit is longevity. “Anyone looking to enhance their brows, save time on their daily routine or replace brows that have gone missing will love these procedures,” Fennell says. As with any cosmetic procedure, there is healing time to consider. “The healing process you will visually see takes about three to eight days to complete,” Fennell says. “Your skin can take about six to eight weeks to fully heal and rejuvenate.” For the first week after treatment, gently clean your eyebrows daily with a mild soap and your fingertips and allow them to air dry before applying the Aquaphor supplied by your permanent makeup artist. Limit sun exposure. It is also important to avoid sleeping on your face for the first few days after the procedure. Additionally, avoid the use of eye makeup, exercising, saunas and baths for the first week, as keeping eyebrows dry is important.
G O O D B R O W S • 4 2 1 S WA S H I N G T O N S T. , 1 S T F LO O R • 7 0 3 . 8 6 8 . 2 1 8 3 • @ G O O D B R O W S D M V
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LUXURY PERMANENT MAKEUP STUDIO
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So what are POWDER BROWS? It is not microblading!... Yes they both are forms of Permanent Makeup but are applied to the skin very differently. Unlike Microblading, the Powder brow process creates a soft, powder-filled brow which can look very natural or can be customized to create a makeup effect. Best of all you don't have to draw your brows in every day! 421 S. Washington St Alexandria VA 22314 | 703-868-2183 | goodbrowsdmv.com
goodbrowsdmv WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 57
A health advocate is “a family member, friend, trusted coworker or hired professional who can ask questions, write down information and speak up for you so you can better understand your illness and get the care and resources."* My phone buzzed in the early morning hours of July 30, 2020, as I started my daily ritual workout in the basement gym (or refuge) we created during the pandemic. While the caller ID revealed the healthcare facility where my father was a patient, I wasn’t immediately panicked. I had grown used to calls at all hours by this point. Yet the minute I was asked for by name, I knew he was gone, closing another devastating chapter of our family’s pandemic story. For the past month, my father had been in a long-term acute care facility (LTACH), supposedly recovering from the coronavirus (COVID-19). However, it was truly an unknown status as his last few weeks were spent back on a ventilator. Before that, he endured 87 days of hospitalization (mostly in the intensive care unit) with several stints on the ventilator, dialysis, delirium and more. Prior to that, he was quarantined in a rehabilitation center, where he was diagnosed with COVID-19. He passed away 80 days after my mom, his wife of 49 years, also died of the same virus.
our parents is an understatement. Daily phone calls, Sunday night dinners, birthdays, holidays, vacations, and weekends at their pool; we were fixtures in each other’s lives. My three daughters had developed a priceless closeness with their grandparents. My parents helped me for years while I worked. My dad carpooled from school pickup to ballet while my mom popped into our house to do loads of laundry and start dinner. Much to the chagrin of my contractor, my dad stopped over frequently to “project manage” our home renovation. Being involved in our lives was very much part of their love language and hobby. I look back on it with immeasurable sadness and love.
ADVOCATE 101 I worked in healthcare for 16 of the more than 20 years I've spent as a public relations professional. In my career, I developed messages that supported lobbying efforts on behalf of our healthcare profession membership in Congress, regulatory agencies and commercial payers.
“Advocate” was also a term in our PR arsenal to educate and encourage consumers to proactively act on their own behalf or as caregivers. I oversaw our efforts of creating consumer education content, which included writing, editing and MY FAMILY publishing simplified information about complex health conditions via tips pages, health guides, My sisters, Jenny and Maureen, and I were videos and podcasts. raised in Northern Virginia and we stayed in the area after college. To say we were close with In pre-pandemic times, the role of being an advocate didn’t really resonate with me on a 58 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
personal level. My three young children were healthy. My parents were relatively healthy and able to manage their own health issues. However, in the fall of 2019, a sequence of events rapidly shifted my perception and experience from passive to seasoned and diligent and changed my life as I knew it.
AN UNPRECEDENTED CHAIN OF EVENTS
But there was no time to breathe a sigh of relief. In late February of 2020, the exhausting and intense role of caregiver had taken a toll on my dad’s health, specifically his diabetic foot issues. I accompanied him to a regularlyscheduled check-in, knowing he wasn’t feeling well and was concerned about a foot ulcer. Upon arrival, he was immediately diagnosed with sepsis and admitted for a life-saving toe amputation. A complex and lengthy recovery was needed to help salvage healthy tissue and as much of the foot as possible.
In late September of 2019, my mom suffered a fall at my house and broke her hip. She was the consummate family “caregiver” of our family and as her kids got older, she shifted that focus to ensure my dad successfully managed his diabetes. After her fall, my dad’s role as a devoted caregiver to her, his high-school Dad was discharged from the hospital and admitted to the sweetheart, was no less. same rehabilitation facility and Jenny, Maureen and I supported them became my mom’s roommate, as much as possible. We scheduled and which seemed like a stroke of attended appointments, wrote notes, good fortune at the time. We discussed prescriptions and diets to were elated that they were boost recovery, oversaw home exercises reunited after so much time and assisted with housework and apart. Because we had begun to errands. This teamwork covered bases experience inconsistent care and on many fronts. In hindsight, it was good communication issues with the At the beginning of April, my dad was the preparation and foreshadowing of what staff, it was also a relief to have was to come in 2020. an extra set of eyes and ears on location. first patient to test positive for COVID-19. A plan to discharge and admit him to an Over the following months, my mom’s However, we were also overwhelmed area hospital started immediately. Given progress ebbed and flowed. Her with two unique and specific care his foot wound issues, the frantic havoc weakened body caused setbacks. requirements for our parents. Engaging the virus was causing in healthcare Because she was sometimes a frustrated daily about their care, progress, goals, systems and our lack of access, I knew we and stubborn patient, it was important insurance coverage and managing their could no longer be passive advocates. A we engaged with her healthcare house and estate became full-time jobs. higher level of involvement, insistence, professionals to convey accurate reinforcement and action was going to information about her appetite, exercises, THE ISOLATING REALITY OF be needed to ensure we did everything the environment at home and more. COVID-19 we could for them. Eventually, to help with her progress, she was admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation New and unprecedented challenges I started with an awkward text to an old center a quarter of a mile from her house. would reveal themselves. In March of friend from high school named Joseph It seemed ideal because she was safe 2020, nursing and rehabilitation facilities, Sakran. We used to call him "Joe" or and could progress with observation and including my parents' center, were sometimes "Joey." During our senior year we could all visit regularly, especially my locked down to non-staff to prevent the of high school, he was nearly killed after dad. spread of COVID-19. Any concerns we being shot in the throat. The near-death had about their care, progress experience inspired him to become a and communication with their trauma surgeon and surgical critical care healthcare providers became intensivist. Joe, now known to many as amplified. And the fear was Dr. Sakran, is a prominent voice in the not just being felt among the care of injured patients and a nationallypatients and their families; it recognized advocate for gun safety was palpable with the staff as working at the nexus of medicine, public health and public policy. His expertise well. has been highlighted in both national and A silver lining during this international media outlets such as BBC, phase of the pandemic was CNN, Al Jazeera, NBC, TIME magazine my parents' ground floor and others. Not only did he respond to my unit. It allowed us to bring my text, but he did so immediately. It’s almost girls to their window and visit as if I flipped on a light switch. He became their grandparents. Patients a constant source of calm expertise that on higher floors were not so navigated me through the most difficult fortunate. experience of my adult life – having my WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 59
parents hospitalized with COVID-19 in her daily and asked if she could be the complete isolation. one to administer her last rights. You do not forget that level of compassion. Joe’s experience having worked in my father’s specific ICU, expert knowledge My dad’s battle would go on for another of ICU treatments and insightful thoughts two and a half months. While Jenny of the treatment of COVID-19 was integral oversaw the entirety of my parents' house to my father’s three-month COVID-19 and their bills, Maureen handled the care hospitalization. His willingness to be details for my mom and I oversaw my regularly available to help me make dad’s care. educated and thoughtful decisions to give my dad the best possible chance of The hospital was at maximum capacity on many levels and started mandating survival was a selfless act of service. only a daily phone call to each family. I Joe said to me one evening, “Having ingratiated myself to the nursing staff to been a patient, I understand what it’s like get more information frequently. We sent to be at your most vulnerable moment. I cannot even begin to imagine what I would have done had my family not been at my bedside as a support system and patient advocate.”
doctors. When hospital staff schedules rotated and a new doctor called, we could jump directly to the specifics of his care. I would also share these updates with Joe so I could get a well-vetted second opinion. The worry of not being there to stay on top of his medical care was only part of it. The thought of either of our parents feeling alone, confused and scared shook us to our core. It was imperative to us that they knew we were there fighting for them. Worsening that fear was the likelihood of them experiencing delirium. Very common in longer and complex hospital stays, this confused state of mind is worsened by isolation.
We scheduled as many video calls as possible. Even though he was During this time mostly sedated and throughout and ventilated, we the pandemic, Joe wanted him to hear published a piece our voices and know describing the impact we were there, that strict isolation fighting for him. We measures would played music, had have on patient the girls tell him about care by removing their soccer games loved ones from the and scheduled time bedside. for our other family “You can imagine members to join us. that there is literally no one who could breakfast weekly to the nurses in the ICU. We would ask him to raise his eyebrows potentially care for you more than a loved When breakdowns occurred, we utilized or nod his head in response. Most times one. And when we, as patients, lose our personal contacts within the hospital those individuals, you can’t help but think about how that impacts the care of your mom, dad, sister or brother. And this is in no way a reflection on the healthcare professionals that work tirelessly to provide and deliver high-quality care; it’s simply a realization that the people who know you the best are the ones that have been by your side for years." On May 12, a few days after Mother’s Day, my mother passed away from COVID-19 at another hospital. Her weakened body couldn’t sustain fighting the virus. Despite pleas to the hospital administration, only one sister was allowed to go in person to say goodbye the day before she passed. We chose our youngest sister, Maureen, her baby. Our goodbyes to our beautiful and fiercely-loving mother were said via video call. Our dad, on a ventilator miles away, had no idea his wife had passed. My mom’s caretakers were incredibly kind, and empathetic and gave us comfort through her hospitalization. One of her doctors, who was also a nun, prayed with 60 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
administration. Tensions ran high at this he didn’t, but when he did, we would sob point of the pandemic and navigating tears of joy and pray it was the beginning with respect and persistence became an of a breakthrough. art form. Dad was on and off the ventilator, put on dialysis, received wound treatment for his foot, managed his diabetes and more. Staying on top of this fraught situation involved an organizational matrix to track specialists, plans of care, medicines and the specific metrics of progress (or decline). I took copious notes in specific detail to ensure I knew the big and small pictures. This kept me informed and ready to have high-level conversations with the
DISCHARGING WITH UNCERTAINTY At the time, in order to be considered discharged or moved to the next phase of care, a patient needed two negative COVID-19 tests days apart. Even after he was moved out of the ICU and off the ventilator, my dad kept testing negative and then positive over and over.
"Our parents were the cornerstones of our lives. My sisters and I received unconditional love and support from them. As deep as our pain is about the horrific way we lost them, we also know how incredibly lucky we were to have had them for the time we did. I can only explain our efforts to advocate for them as a primal instinct." - Katie Kissal His body had been decimated by the virus. He was now on dialysis, using a high level of oxygen and had a tracheotomy. He could only speak when using a speaking valve when a nurse was in the room to monitor its use. The bed wound that he had developed had become one of the biggest concerns due to his ability to heal. However, he finally tested negative twice.
there before he was admitted. We raced down the highway, frantically found parking and stood by the door while they rushed him past us. And then he was gone again. The next month was bumpy all over again with his health and aligning with the staff at the LTAC. When we left the hospital, we had a solid flow of updates, limited visitation and a small glimmer of hope that he would recover. It took several terse and relentless conversations before I developed a rapport with the chief medical officer. Unfortunately, my dad’s health did not go in the same positive direction. By mid-month, he was back on the ventilator. He passed in the early morning hours of July 30.
LESSONS LEARNED Our parents were the cornerstones of our lives. My sisters and I received unconditional love and support from them. As deep as our pain is about the horrific way we lost them, we also know how incredibly lucky we were to have had them for the time we did. I can only explain our efforts to advocate for them as a primal instinct.
The uncertainties about his quality of life were abundant and unknown, but he was alive and the hospital was ready to discharge him. The best place for him was an LTACH (long-term acute care hospital which provides an intensive acute level of care to medically complex patients who no longer require hospitalization). And while the last few weeks of being out of the ICU allowed us some visitation (one at a time, once a day), the new location was in the city, which still had strict isolation policies. We would be separated from him again. The day he was discharged, he was transported via ambulance to the LTAC. We were beside ourselves about this moment. We carefully coordinated timing with the hospital. We waited outside with some close friends and signs to greet him in the transition. It was a bit anticlimactic. The ambulance drivers rushed him by without pausing or acknowledging us and got him loaded. We ran alongside them so he could see and hear us assure him we were following him and would be
out a fierce relentlessness in my ability to advocate for myself and my loved ones. Trusting my instincts and making my voice heard on their behalf was unshakable. And while such a loss can leave you worse off, I am certain it can also make you better. While I wouldn’t wish my experience on anyone, I hope that it can shed some light on how important it can be to be or select a prepared health advocate. In precarious situations, being steadfast and diligent can make a difference in the short and long-term outcomes. I’m incredibly proud of my sisters and me for how fiercely we worked to try to save my parents and I know (and pray) they are too. READ 5 TIPS ON HOW TO BE A PREPARED HEALTH ADVOCATE
I believe the unknown of the virus and the isolation from my parents brought
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cracking the misconceptions of prenatal and pediatric chiropractics
S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
While it is certainly an exciting time, pregnancy also brings with it a laundry list of dos and don’ts. And along with all those changes to your body, the extra weight of the growing baby can cause significant pain. Fortunately, there are ways to help alleviate some of the issues that come with the joy of becoming the glowing specimen of fertility that you are—one of which is as simple as turning yourself over to the capable hands of a chiropractor.
"chiropractic care is one of the best and safest forms of relief for pregnant moms... it has been proven to shorten labor and delivery time in some cases." - dr. shara posner Before you start shaking your head and thinking that there’s no way in the world you’re going to go get cracked—ever, much less when you’re pregnant—there are some major benefits that come from getting properly adjusted. “Chiropractic care is one of the best and safest forms of relief for pregnant moms,” says Dr. Shara Posner, a practitioner at Back to Health Center. “In fact, it has been proven to shorten labor and delivery time in some cases. We are excellent at assisting with the pelvic, pubic, lower back, sciatic, round ligament, middle back, neck and headache pain that comes with pregnancy and we can also assist in maintaining your prenatal wellness.” According to Dr. Posner, all trimesters are safe for chiropractic care, but certain precautions must be taken, so it is important to notify the doctor as soon as you suspect you may be pregnant. “First and foremost, an examination must occur to make sure there are no red flags for treatment to begin,” she says. “Once I have evaluated the mother, I make special modifications to the adjustment for her, especially as the baby
grows. Knowing these modifications comes with specialized training and keeping up-to-date with prenatal techniques, so it is very important to seek a chiropractor who has been trained in prenatal care.” Boasting 18 years in practice as a chiropractor, Dr. Posner shifted her focus to prenatal and pediatric chiropractics after becoming a mother herself. “I worked for a chiropractor during a college externship and I was amazed when people would come in bent over in pain and walk upright out of the office,” she recalls. “I thought it was incredible how they could be given relief without the use of medication and decided to follow a career in chiropractic. After being in chiropractic for quite some time, I started a family with my husband, and it was during this time that my practice took a turn toward treating mothers and their families. Although we do get some education on care during pregnancy, I wanted to become more proficient, so I pursued a certification in maternal health and pediatric care.” With that specialty comes an understanding of how to put her patients at ease. “I like to say that my expertise and open communication supports the mother throughout their visit,” Dr. Posner says. “It is important for moms to understand what is happening to their bodies and how we will assist them back to better balance. I also always ask for permission and describe what I will be doing before I do so. My hope is to make moms feel comfortable and confident that I am here to assist them and not to normalize their complaints.” Much like mothers-to-be, children can also benefit from chiropractic care. “Children grow in size and so does their brain and spine,” says Dr. Posner. “Making sure that children
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are hitting their motor milestones as they should is my jam! Watching those milestones and reflexes gives us a window into how their brain is developing and learning. Chiropractics help bring better balance and health to your little ones. More specifically, it can help with breastfeeding during infancy, reflux, constipation, missed milestones like rolling or crawling, sports injuries, poor posture from devices and backpacks... You name it.” Safety is always a concern, so Dr. Posner performs a baseline evaluation to make sure her pediatric patients are not in need of referral and are ready for care. “The technique for kids is gentle and fun,” she says. “I never perform any adjustments or treatment I would not perform on my own children, and my kids love getting adjusted.”
SCAN ME TO LEARN MORE
Dr. Posner’s expertise is certainly a reason to trust her, but so too is the passion that drives her. “I love working with my patients and strive to guide them in more avenues than just being painfree,” she says. “I take a holistic approach, looking at their daily activities, diet and exercise to arrive to a comprehensive plan for better health.” As with any form of alternative medicine, there are some myths surrounding prenatal and pediatric chiropractic care. To these, Dr. Posner says, “I do not ‘crack’ babies. The work I do on children is very gentle and restorative. Most children come into my office and immediately lay on the table because they enjoy getting adjusted so much! Also, prenatal chiropractic is a very safe means of pain relief when performed by a trained prenatal chiropractor.”
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natural hair care tips S TO RY BY J O I D R E A M S + L I E S E L S C H M I DT
We all know that skin needs sunscreen on sunny days, but what about hair? Summer heat and humidity can wreak havoc on tresses and the intensity of the sun can dry it out. Rather than have your hair turn into your arch-nemesis over your summer vacay, we’ve got some helpful tips from salon and haircare expert, Joi Dreams, of Joi Dreams Salon. “Those beauties rocking their naturally curly hair have a lovehate relationship with summer,” says Dreams. To help the love affair hold strong through the summer, Dreams recommends weekly moisturizing treatments and using the correct moisturizing conditioner for the appropriate hair texture. Love a life hack? Dreams has some great homemade treatments. For thin hair, she recommends mixing a ripe banana with 1/4 cup of jojoba oil and one teaspoon of vitamin E oil. Shampoo hair once, towel dry, apply treatment from root to ends, comb through and cover your hair with a plastic cap or wrap. Dampen a towel and place the towel in the microwave to warm it, place it on the hair and when the towel cools, repeat this process for 20 minutes. Rinse the treatment out thoroughly, shampoo and apply a cream rinse or light conditioner. Then rinse and style as usual.
well and apply apple cider vinegar to your hair. This helps to gently (and naturally) clarify your hair. Rinse out the apple cider vinegar well, then shampoo hair twice with a moisturizing shampoo and follow with a conditioner. Do not allow the chlorine to dry into your hair or neglect to shampoo right after swimming. Chlorine build-up will change the texture of your hair, making it brittle and lifeless.”
For medium to thick hair, mix a ripe avocado with 1/4 cup of olive oil, one teaspoon of vitamin E oil and one tablespoon of castor oil. Then, follow the same process as described for thin hair.
Braids are a great way to keep hair in check, but Dreams warns against keeping braids in longer than two months. To keep braids looking their best, she says, “Use Sea Breeze to cleanse in between the braids or place a stocking cap or mesh cap over the braids and rinse them thoroughly. Spray a light leave-in conditioner on your scalp and braids, then allow to air dry.”
“Many ladies like to co-wash, but many conditioners leave a build-up on the hair that hinders your tresses from being at their best,” Dreams says. “Co-washing two consecutive days and then shampooing helps to reduce build-up on hair and also the dandruff and product build-up that many people suffer.” Hitting the pool? Here’s a tip you’ll definitely want to take: “Apply a thick conditioner to your hair prior to getting into a chlorine pool,” Dreams says. “After you get out, rinse your hair
If you’re spending a lot of time out in the sun, Dreams advises wearing a hat. “Hair can also be burned by the sun,” she notes.
Color-treated hair is also at risk during summer. “If you bleach or use a high lift color on your hair, get a treatment monthly,” Dreams says. “The sun can and will dry out your hair and cause it to become brittle and fragile. We recommend chemical treatments such as WellaPlex and Olaplex. Both treatments are best applied in a salon.”
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S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT P H OTO G R A P H Y C O U RT E S Y O F S T E FA N I P I E R C E
As tan as we all love to be, rocking that sun-kissed glow can be dangerous—which is why self-tanning products and spray tanning salons have taken such a foothold in the beauty industry. As a 12-year veteran of the tanning industry, Stefani Pierce knows from personal experience, spray tanning comes with all the appeal of the real deal—without the damage that comes from it. “I was tanning in the tanning bed almost every single day for years and could see my skin changing, and not in a good way,” says Pierce. “I knew there had to be a better solution to stay bronzed, and this led to my discovery of airbrush tanning. I instantly felt more confident and soon sought out how I could make my passion a business.”
offered by the team at the Bronze Collective. “They help to enhance your current skin tone, disguise skin imperfections, blend tan lines, offer instant results with no sun damage and help you feel confident. Our mission is to help people feel fabulous in their own skin!”
A proud military spouse, Pierce was brought to Alexandria by her husband’s service orders. Two years later, she’s established herself in the business community as the owner of the Bronze Collective, formerly known as Spray Tans by Stefani, an organic airbrush tanning salon specializing in contour tanning techniques and professional LED Teeth Whitening services. Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and a true love for what she does, Pierce is an impressive force, a master certified airbrush artist with tans featured in publications including Elle magazine and Maxim online, as well as on Bravo TV and at awards shows such as the Emmys. Her salon has also won “Best of D.C.” “Spray tans are an instant confidence boost,” says Pierce, who is, naturally, a walking billboard for the spray tan expertise S P R AY TA N S B Y S T E FA N I • 1 0 1 0 N G L E B E R D . S U I T E 1 0 0, S T U D I O 7 + 1 0 • A R L I N G T O N , VA • @ S P R AY TA N S BY S T E FA N I
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N U R S E S ' A P P R E C I AT I O N DAY P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J D WAT K I N S
Aiyana Atelier recently hosted a very special event for nurses during Nurses' Appreciation Week. The afternoon included some well deserved relaxation. Light bites, drinks, special event-only promotions and giveaways, and some very fun swag were provided to all attendees. Aiyana Atelier is a female-owned boutique aesthetic studio focused on the art of keeping you endlessly beautiful through every stage of life. For more information, visit www.aiyanaatelier.com.
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skin health = wealth
how to boost your natural collagen and protect your skin for summmer
S TO RY BY AS H L E Y C A R M E N
Skin health is your wealth! No, I won’t put that on a tee shirt but really, I love love love skin. And you should too! It’s the largest and most protective organ we have as human beings. We carry a few select supplements at Aiyana Atelier, but one that I particularly love is Skinade. Skinade is an award-winning anti-aging collagen drink that aims to boost your body's natural production of collagen and hyaluronic acid in as little as 30 days, also while offering some amazing skin protection for the summer! Originally developed in the UK, Skinade is designed to provide a perfect ratio of liquid to functional ingredients to create one of the most advanced, effective and bio-available anti-aging
skincare products on the market today. Its tagline of promoting “better skin within” is primarily due to its pure hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides sourced from the skin of fresh-water fish. In order to gain the same amount of nutrients and collagen peptides any other way, you would have to take up to 20 pills, but this liquid formulation allows for up to 95% absorption (vs about 35% with pills). Skinade comes in a pre-mixed bottle for easy consumption on the go, but also comes in sachets for simple mixing when traveling. Ideally, Skinade is consumed once daily for 90 days, then you take a two week break to allow your body to metabolize all of the good nutrients. If you love your results, maintain use two to three times per week, or for more improvements, do another cycle. Derma Defense A&D is a drinkable retinol with Vitamin D3 that promotes increased skin hydration and more even, healthy looking skin. What we also love about this brand is that they have targeted solutions to address specific concerns. This is great for individuals with vitamin deficiency or severe pigmentation concerns, such as melasma, which can be triggered by the summer season (check out the blog for more information). Cellulite is another option as a metabolic booster composed of 19 ingredients designed to reduce skin dimpling and fat atrophy, as well as assist with fluid retention and hormonal impacts. Skinade also has a solution for those that suffer from acne! A product called "Clear" targets the mechanisms that lead to blemishes; dryness, congestion, excess hormone production and excess oil. If you are ready for healthier, more supple, more protected and more toned skin to pair with your external treatments, Skinade is great for you! Check out our website, www.aiyanaatelier. com, to review additional information under the Products tab. Please email info@aiyanaatelier.com for any questions about Skinade or to place an order! Of course, we would love to see you in the studio for a full consultation, which you can book online through the website as well. Have a happy and safe summer!
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on the path to wellness What Is A Wellness Wheel & How Can It Change Your Life? S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
Wellness. It’s something we’ve heard a lot about, something that we strive to attain. And in these times of constant bombardment and technology overload, we struggle even more to disconnect, to re-center, to achieve balance and find that ever-elusive thing that is “wellness.” So what exactly is wellness and why is it so important? “Wellness goes beyond the physical,” says Jessica Kirschner, owner and creator of Mindful Modern Living. “Wellness combines and interconnects with the mind and spirit ... All individuals make lifestyle choices that bring them towards a state of equanimity and inner peace or take them away from such states. Each individual is capable of achieving the optimum state of health and well-being. Taking this time to examine where you are right now and what you truly need is a huge step in creating change, joy and peace within yourself. Understanding the multidimensional aspects of wellness and the interconnectedness of all dimensions empowers a deep level of self-trust, higher knowing and life balance. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, we receive blessings of vitality, energy and lasting health.” While it may sound like an abstract concept, Kirschner has a very concrete plan for getting to that place of “equanimity and inner peace” known as wellness. “The Wellness Wheel is a tool for organizing and developing a personal plan to explain, promote and achieve greater individual wellness,” she explains. “It was first modeled from the theory of individual psychology. Following extensive research across disciplines, researchers found characteristics that they saw had a connection to healthy living, quality of life and longevity.”
PHYSICAL: Physical health is one characteristic that correlates positively with healthy living, quality of life and longevity. Understanding how your body works and being aware of how exercise, sleep, food and stress can affect you is a major contributor to optimal health and well-being. SOCIAL: Family and friends affect who you are, how you act and what you expect from others. They not only affect your overall well-being, but also how you navigate the world. ENVIRONMENTAL: Having a sense of safety, comfort and connection with your own physical surroundings is important to your mental, emotional and physical health. Environmental wellness also includes respecting the environment and understanding how personal actions impact the health of the ecosystem. FINANCIAL: Financial wellness means having the ability to fulfill current and future financial obligations and feel secure in your future financial planning.
Consisting of seven distinct characteristics, the Wellness Wheel addresses all the pieces that, together, create the various aspects of our lives and contribute to our total wellbeing.
SPIRITUAL: Spiritual wellness is a process of understanding beliefs, values and ethics that help guide your life. Knowing your core values and boundaries is a powerful step in creating change, joy and peace within yourself. It's important to identify barriers in your life that restrict or limit you from tasting, hearing, seeing, smelling, feeling or experiencing.
INTELLECTUAL: Allowing yourself time to be curious, participate in the creation of art, read and learn in a spontaneous and uncensored way can provide insight, transformation and healing.
EMOTIONAL: It takes practice to let go of ego and acknowledge emotions and feelings. Learning healthy coping techniques can allow you to step outside of your emotional self and evaluate the situation.
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For anyone hoping to achieve personal wellness, following the Wellness Wheel helps identify and focus on areas that need the most attention. “You have the power to become more aware of the interconnectedness of each dimension within your life and will learn how they contribute to the greater goal of optimal health and well-being,” says Kirschner. “Becoming more aware of the interconnectedness of all the characteristics that contribute to traveling [along] your wellness path successfully will provide you the power to monitor your own vital signs, understand your body's warning signs and learn healthy coping techniques.” For Kirschner, helping clients travel the path to wellness is the core mission behind her work at Mindful Modern Living. “We believe that optimal health and wellbeing begins with understanding your beliefs, values and ethics,” she says. “Understanding what your core values and boundaries are and how to use them, along with your intuition as a guide to help you navigate daily life choices, is the foundation of implementing growth and change in any area of your life. Our method provides the tools, structure, accountability and clarity to help individuals envision, articulate, create and bring to life their unique, authentic vision. We strive to create a community of unique voices, each bringing a different perspective to a socially-conscious audience. Connecting with others can improve your overall health, and our community is a beautiful space to learn, develop, build and maintain stronger, longer-lasting, relationships—which is an invaluable skill. We aim to create thought-provoking, interactive conversation through our classes, workshops, retreats and socializing events. We encourage our community to pursue a lifestyle-oriented toward optimal health and well-being of the mind, body and spirit.”
Live a happier, more fulfilling life! Whether you have a specific goal or are seeking general guidance, coaching will ensure you reach your desired vision. Holistic Life Coaching is for people who want to make empowered decisions to achieve optimal health and well-being of the mind, body, and spirit.
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 73
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
We’ve all heard about the importance of strength training and the ways it helps with not only fitness, but also functional living. The better our strength, the better our bodies will weather the effects of aging—especially when it comes to our skeletal systems. But when should we start focusing on strength training? The answer to that may be younger than you think. In fact, Tom Fukuda of D1 Training suggests that kids as young as elementary school age can benefit from strength training. “Young athletes can begin strength training as early as six or seven years old as long as they understand the importance of following directions and doing so with proper coaching,” he says. Naturally, part of that proper coaching involves direction on which types of exercises should be focused on. “Initially, young athletes benefit greatly from calisthenics—or bodyweight exercises—such as push-ups, air squats and other basic core exercises like sit-ups and planks,” says TJ Aanenson, Head Speed and Strength Coach at D1 Training. “The most important thing is to make sure they enjoy exercise. Finding ways to ‘game-ify’ weight training is a good way to keep them engaged. Then, as athletes grow and mature, the introduction of free weights between the ages of 12 to 14, under the supervision of a certified coach, will allow for continued progression and improvement.” So what’s the payoff with introducing young athletes to strength training? Obviously, there is a physical benefit to spending time in the gym. “Strength is one of the primary advantages, of course, but many others exist as well,” Aanenson explains. “One of the biggest advantages is the reduction of injury risk through increased strength, stability and coordination. Weightbearing training assists in the strengthening of bones, tendons and ligaments, which make a young athlete much more resistant to injury.” There’s a mental benefit to strength training, as well. As Fukuda notes, “Young athletes derive a sense of purpose and develop a strong work ethic through their time in training. They gain an understanding that overcoming challenges and
achieving goals is a massive advantage in athletics as well as life in general. Additionally, working in a group setting teaches teamwork and assists in the development of social skills.” According to Fukuda, even with specific sports being part of a young athlete’s schedule, strength training doesn’t need to be adjusted for differing sports. “The most important thing is to develop a well-rounded base of strength within the upper body, lower body and core,” he says. For younger athletes, Aanenson recommends strength training two to three times per week as sufficient for progress. “As athletes get older, they may add an additional day or two,” he suggests. If you have visions of your third grader bulking up like a miniature Hulk, fret not. “Although athletes will get significantly stronger and their performance [will] likely increase, they do not have enough hormones or overall development to get a substantial increase in size,” Aanenson assures. “Also, ‘bulking up’ is a heavily misunderstood term, as it takes many years of hard training and proper eating to gain a significant amount of size.” “Proper eating” is, of course, something crucial to strength training of any kind, at any age. “A well-balanced diet will likely be most beneficial,” says Aanenson. “This should include minimally-processed forms of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Along with this, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will provide the energy and recovery needed to continue making strength training progress. If anything, adding an additional serving or two of protein on training days may assist in the muscle repair and re-building process.”
D1 TRAINING • 6550 LITTLE RIVER TURNPIKE, UNIT A • 703.935.5762 • @D1TRAININGALEXANDRIA
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 75
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
all about the hair the 411 on all things summer hair
S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
Flip through the pages of any style magazine or thumb through the posts of any influencer, and you’ll see that hair trends are ever-changing. With the shift of the seasons, hairstyles naturally get a re-fresh, and summer is one of the best times to get a new look to rock on your sun-kissed vacay days. For the latest 4-1-1 on all things hair, we bow to the expertise of Cynthia Santana, hair guru and owner of Cynthia Santana Hair Studio. “As summer heats up, I've been getting a ton of requests for longer and fuller hair with extensions,” says Santana, an educator for Bellami Hair Extensions who exclusively uses Bellami hair on her clients. “Beach waves, loose curls and just texture, in general, seem to be trending. As for color, the most common request is a champagne blonde or golden blonde balayage. Bright reds are also coming back, and brunettes are also joining in on the warmer toned balayage. For the summer, most ladies like a bit of sparkle in their hair color. Gold tones reflect more light, so it's perfect to give that beachy, summer look. It also just makes the color look brighter overall.” With more than 20 years of experience in the hair industry that includes working in high-end salons in New Orleans, Delaware and DC, Santana naturally understands the needs of different hair types and lengths, which makes her a fount of knowledge for anyone wanting to find the best style for their hair. “For thicker hair, I usually recommend loosening up the weight by adding layers,” says the salon owner, who opened Cynthia Santana Hair Studio in 2015, bringing with her a specialty in hair color and hair extensions that she accumulated from her time as an educator for Bumble and Bumble, L'Oreal and Bellami. “Styling the hair by adding curls or waves also gives the appearance of fuller hair that isn't weighed down. Depending on the texture of the hair, I sometimes also recommend a smoothing treatment. Formaldehyde-free smoothing treatments such as Cezzane and High Liss give frizzy or overly-textured thick hair a sleeker feel. Because these treatments really compress the cuticle, they give the hair a thinner feel. The perm is also making a comeback, but a looser look created with the use of longer, bendy rods, which makes the process faster and allows for more customization. You can get a tighter look, more volume on the roots or less volume on roots and beachy curls on the C Y N T H I A S A N TA N A H A I R S T U D I O • 3 0 1 H O O F S R U N D R . , S T U D I O 9 • 7 0 3 . 9 9 1 . 9 8 8 1 • @ C Y N T H I A S A N TA N A H A I R
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ends. It's great to add bounce to thick hair that might otherwise look flat.” For thinner hair, Santana recommends blunt cuts and—of course—extensions. “You don't want to cut too many layers in finer hair because it could make the hair look even thinner,” she advises. “Shorter hairstyles will also work best. Traditional haircuts like a bob, or even a layered bob, suit finer hair very well. A layered bob works because it maintains a heavier weight line at the bottom of the cut and the length is not too long. If the guest is on the edgier side, shorter cuts like the trending ‘bixie’ cut would be great. The ‘bixie’ is a haircut that's a cross between a pixie and a bob. Thinner hair is also great for the new body wave or perm techniques.” During the high heat of summer, sweaty days can make you feel the need to shower more often. Which begs the question; should you also wash your hair more often? “It's always important to not over-wash your hair, especially if your hair is colored or compromised in any way,” Santana warns. “I usually recommend washing hair twice a week, but over the summer, you may find that you will wash at least one extra time, depending on what you have going on. If you use professional hair care, you will find that the products will be more water-soluble, meaning they will rinse out easily with just water. If you are just sweaty and you washed your hair earlier that day or even the day before, it’s fine to simply rinse your hair with water and add conditioner to just the ends. This will keep your hair from drying out and your color from fading. Dry shampoo is your friend, but don't overuse this either. If you are using dry shampoo regularly, you’ll want to wash your hair every two to three days.”
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 77
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
well adjusted kids chiropractics for kids
S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
For the centuries that chiropractic care has been around, it is still relatively new as a practice in the West. Even so, it is something that has become increasingly sought out in the U.S., as its results have been life-changing for the many people whose various health problems have led them to chiropractic care. And while it might be assumed that chiropractic adjustments are only safe and beneficial for adults, its effects have been proven for children and babies too. “Chiropractic care is both appropriate and necessary for many children,” says Dr. Sean Woods of the Chiropractic Associates. “Many believe that babies come out perfect and that problems may arise later as they learn to walk and run, but there are plenty of opportunities for a newborn to have substantial spinal misalignments from the birthing process and from uterine constraints during pregnancy. Spinal misalignments can create many problems for infants, children and teenagers. As chiropractors, my wife, Dr. Michelle Woods, and I have been in practice together in Old Town for 25 years. We have been
seeing kids and newborns since day one when we opened in 1997, and we are still seeing some of these patients as young adults today. When they come to us as infants and newborns, we’ve been able to address issues including trouble latching when breastfeeding, colic, eczema, torticollis and kidney dysfunction. We’ve even been able to assist in turning a breech baby through gentle chiropractic adjustments. Young
children are brought to us with headaches, ear infections, knee injuries, sinus congestion, stomach pain and postural imbalances. In teenagers, we see all kinds of sports injuries, headaches, menstrual issues, digestive problems and neck and back pain.”
“we both got into chiropractic because we wanted to help people get healthy naturally, and the chiropractic philosophy is one of the most powerful natural healing practices available today.” - dr. sean woods For the Woods doctors, their work is a passion and a calling, one that has stayed strong over the course of decades in practice. “We both got into chiropractic because we wanted to help people get healthy naturally, and the chiropractic philosophy is one of the most powerful natural healing practices available today,” says Dr. Sean. “The continuous success stories are, without a doubt, the main reason for our passion in the work we do. When we correct spinal dysfunction in an infant or young child, we have changed the entire trajectory of their health in the short term and, more importantly, prevented a multitude of health problems that they could encounter in the future if left uncorrected.” As much as one might think an adjustment could be scary for a child, Dr. Sean says, “Most children love to get adjusted. It’s always easiest when the older siblings go first and it’s always very gentle. Most young children are not body aware enough, so they can’t fully express how they feel or where they hurt. This is why it can be tough for a parent to know when to go to a chiropractor. A gentle touch always helps them feel comfortable. A good rule of thumb I like to tell parents is that if your child is complaining of pain or is having trouble resolving a chronic problem, it is a sign your child may need a consultation with a chiropractor.”
C H I R O P R AC T I C A S S O C I AT E S • 1 2 4 0 N . P I T T S T. • 7 0 3 .7 3 9. 0 4 5 6 • @ D R S E A N W O O D S
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The Chiropractic Associates Dedicated to the RESTORATION of Health and Wellness
NEED A NEIGHBORHOOD CHIROPRACTOR? DR. SEAN WOODS • DR. MICHELLE WOODS
Drs. Sean and Michelle Woods have been in private practice in Old Town since 1997. They have been in Waynewood since 2011 where they are happily raising their 3 children. As holistic practitioners, they are committed to helping you reach your health and wellness goals naturally.
FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC CARE • SPORTS INJURY FOR ALL AGES CLINICAL NUTRITION TESTING • PRENATAL AND INFANT CARE
703-739-0456 • www.chiroassoc.net • thechiroassoc@gmail.com 1240 North Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 79
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
after all these years anti-aging through fitness and science
S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
As we get older, it gets harder to stay in shape, keep the weight off and build muscle. But over the years, the wonders of modern science and technology have become increasingly laser-focused on assisting with the preservation of muscle mass and health. As a result, we have access to everything from miracle balms and serums to literal high-tech laser treatments, but there are ways to fight off the years without any kind of magic potions or drastic surgical procedures. In fact, Betsy Weissman and the team at sculp’d have some great tools in their arsenal that provide a better—stronger—body than the years would imply. “When we first opened, sculp'd was a Pilates reformer studio, but we have grown to so much more,” Weissman says. “Over the last six years, we noticed that our clients were working out really hard and being smart about it, but not seeing the results they wanted. There is such a multi-layered approach to overall and long-term health and wellness, so we layered in nutrition consulting to help people optimize their workouts with the right nutrients, protein and hydration. Then, we brought in a cuttingedge device called Emsculpt Neo that helps anyone—no matter their fitness level—build muscle and burn fat in only 30 minutes per week. That’s what people need; a fast and effective way to get results. It’s a fact that body fat increases steadily beginning at age 30 and we start to lose, on average, three to eight percent of our muscle strength every decade. Muscle mass is further impacted by decreases in growth hormones,
testosterone and estrogen levels. Emsculpt Neo is a gamechanger to help anyone of any age gain and keep muscle. And as we know, muscle is the key to longevity and balancing your metabolism. After recovering from knee surgery myself during the first half of 2022, the muscle-building component of Neo gave me back inches in my quad muscle and has helped my quick recovery faster than my physical therapist has ever seen." “In addition, this year, we began to focus more on the pelvic floor conditioning and bringing that to our clients,” Weissman continues. “This was a natural transition, so we did some investigation and brought on another high-tech device: the Emsella. Basically, it is a special chair that induces 11,400 Kegels in 30 minutes. We also offer clients private consults to help them find relief and effective solutions to age-related concerns.” With their focus on long-term, total wellness, sculp’d knows the importance of incorporating nutrition into any health plan. “Hippocrates said, ‘Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,’” Weissman says. “In addition to movement and the tools we offer, we also emphasize nutrition and the critical role it plays in your wellbeing. Over-processed foods, excessive amounts of sugar and salt and food additives are all dangerous and can lead to chronic disease and digestive distress. Here at sculp'd, we don't focus on fad diets or quick fixes. We focus on helping our clients change their perspective on food, fuel their bodies the right way and think of food as medicine. We also implement lifestyle changes like helping you to lower stress levels and improve your sleep—all elements that are vital to your health. I look to all the ‘things’ I personally do in my daily life—movement, muscle building, great nutrition—and I wanted to not only make it easier for my friends and family to have access to them, but also bring it to the Alexandria community, as well,” says Weissman. “Total health is a daily, continuous effort. Why not make it accessible for everyone?”
S C U L P ' D • 1 1 0 3 Q U E E N S T. , 2 N D F LO O R • 7 0 3 . 5 6 7. 4 4 4 2 • @ S C U L P D
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work@vipalexandriamag.com WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 81
H E A LT H + B E AU T Y
let's get curly the return of the perm and how to care for curls S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
Once upon a time, no one looked at you sideways when you walked into a salon and asked for a perm. But alas, the perm fell out of vogue along with baggy jeans, leaving those of us with stick-straight hair to look upon curly heads with envy while we tortured ourselves with curling irons or—conversely— obsessed over taming our manes into perfectly straight curtains of hair. As with all trends, however, perms have once again made their way into the style-watch—this time with the added benefit of techniques that have modernized and streamlined the whole process. “Traditional perms, as we all recall from the classic Legally Blonde, use a chemical called ammonium thioglycolate to break down and reassemble the hair's structure to create curls on hair that otherwise would be straight,” explains Lee Wilson, Stylist, Director of Events and resident curl expert at Salon deZEN. “The hair is washed, rolled onto perm rods and then processed for a long period of time both in the chair and in the shampoo bowl. Traditional perms are stinky, uncomfortable and have a high risk of getting the recipient soaked with water at the shampoo bowl. The perm itself—and
sometimes the smell—can be expected to last around three months depending on the size of the curl. The new perm method we offer uses a different chemical entirely, which has eliminated the stinky sulfuric smell of traditional perms. It includes a pea protein complex to make the hair healthier as it processes. We also remove the rods prior to rinsing, so that you don't have to sit at the bowl with uncomfortable rollers in your hair.” So why the return in popularity of perms? “Perms are in again because they create natural-looking, consistent curls or waves that can add volume and make the hair significantly easier to air-dry,” says Wilson.
"anyone can have awesome volume, beachy waves or perfect curls." - lee wilson For Wilson, curls aren’t just something she does—they’re a passion. “My interest in curly hair began about the same time as my interest in hair in general,” she says. “I grew up in the time of flat irons and stick straight hair and never loved how puffy my hair looked. Once I started working in salons and learned that my hair was naturally wavy and just needed a nudge, I became obsessed with helping others harness their true natural hair potential. Ten years and countless hours of education later, here I am at Salon deZEN, making Alexandria curlier, one head at a time.” Fortunately, you don’t have to have a specific hair type to be well-suited to perms. “Perms are great on any hair type as long as the hair isn't significantly damaged already,” Wilson notes. “Because perms are so customizable, we can use them to create soft and wispy pixies, wavy French bobs and textured long locks, so any length of hair can be permed. Even colortreated hair can be permed.”
S A LO N D E Z E N • 1 1 8 N FAY E T T E S T. • 7 0 3 . 5 4 9.1 4 0 0 • @ S A LO N D E Z E N
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With an issue that is all about health and wellness, I can’t help but talk about hair health. The truth is your hair does change as you age, but you do do have the power to make it as healthy as it can be by caring properly for your scalp and keeping your hair properly hydrated. ZEN has the two perfect products that will give your tresses some extra hair love. 1. True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub by Innersense. This is a scalp scrub exfoliation treatment that was crafted to gently remove impurities while also restoring hydration to the scalp and stimulating blood flow. All you have to do is apply, massage, and rinse your way to more healthy, nourished hair. Happy scalp = happy hair!!! 2. Hydrating Hair Mask by Innersense. This is a hair mask like no other. It successfully revitalizes dry, coarse, and/or damaged hair. Remember, it is just as important to hydrate your hair as it is to hydrate your body. Find these Innersense products and more at ZEN. Love,
Maria Elizabeth
118 N Fayette Street, Alexandria | www.salondezen.com | 703.549.1400 WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 83
A TAST E O F D E L R AY P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J U L I E C A R R AS C O
Top area restaurants recently participated in the 13th Annual Taste of Del Ray. The event kicked off with this VIP reception plus weekendlong Tastes Along the Avenue. For more information or to learn how you can participate next year, visit www.visitdelray.com/tasteofdelray.
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WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 85
O L D TOW N B U S I N E S S G U I D E L AU N C H PA RT Y P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J D WAT K I N S
Heavy hors d'oeuvres, courtesy of The Goodhart Group, were served at Hummingbird to celebrate the Old Town Boutique District and Old Town Business joining forces. This exciting partnership means more support for local businesses and the Old Town community. The event also served as a launch party for the new Old Town Business Guide, available now at various locations throughout Old Town. For a full list of Old Town Boutique District locations, visit www.oldtowboutiquedistrict. com. For a full list of Old Town Business locations, visit www.oldtownbusiness.org.
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202.271.3050 | podolskygroup.com aaron.podolsky@compass.com podolskygroup
Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 1004 King Street, 1st Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314 | 703.229.8935
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 87
A NEIGHBORHOOD TAVERN + BAR THE CUISINE AT KAIZEN IS A BLEND OF LATIN, ASIAN, AND AMERICAN COMFORT FOODS.
SCAN FOR MENU
As Head Chef of Kaizen Tavern in Del Ray, Aung Pyae Sone (or “Kelvin” as he is lovingly referred to by regulars) believes that making sushi is an art. But Chef Kelvin’s menu does not stop there. Scan the QR code above for a peek at his deliciously curated menu and be sure to stop by for Happy Hour, every day from 3-5pm. Chef Kelvin + his talented staff create some of the best cocktails in Alexandria!
1909 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria • www.Kaizen-Tavern.com 88 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J D WAT K I N S
The Chamber ALX's May Business After Hours event was hosted by The Landing Alexandria at Sonoma Cellar. The evening included beverages, bites and networking. This series includes seven occurrences at rotating locations throughout the community. Events are typically held on the third Thursday of each month. To learn more, please visit www.thechamberalx.com.
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 89
H I G H O C TA N E B A L L P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J D WAT K I N S
'Twas the night before the Old Town Festival of Speed + Style and... everyone was celebrating at the High Octane Ball. The venue was Yates Collision, a space the Yates family recently transformed from a vintage Packard car dealership to a state-of-the-art collision center and, on occasion, into a jaw-dropping event space.
P H OTO BY S T E V E N H A L P E R S O N / T I S A R A P H OTO G R A P H Y
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Night !
OH WHAT A
Steven Halperson/Tisara Photography
Thank you to the Alexandria community for joining us at the Old Town Fessval of Speed & Style’s High Octane Ball and helping raise funds for these amazing non-profits!
In the spirit of giving back, the Yates Family, Trophy Sponsors for the Old Town Fessval of Speed & Style, and their ennre team transformed the recently remodeled Art Deco building into a glamorous venue to host the High Octane Ball to benefit Alive!, USO and the Campagna Center. For private event inquiries, please email events@packardwarehouse.com WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 91
F O R M O R E P I C T U R E S F R O M T H I S E V E N T, V I S I T W W W.V I PA L E X A N D R I A M AG . C O M / E V E N T S 92 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
S P E E D + ST Y L E F E S T I VA L P H OTO G R A P H Y BY J E F F H E E N E Y
The Old Town Festival of Speed & Style, presented by Burke & Herbert Bank, recently hosted dozens of rare and exotic cars, made famous by their speed, performance and elegance. All proceeds benefit ALIVE! and Campagna Center. Learn more at www.festivalspeedstylealex.com.
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 93
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S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT
As the Senior Director of the Opportunity and Inclusion Center at the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), Dr. Ben Fiore-Walker has a hand in important work to help further inclusion and diversity in education. “I have always been one of very few AfricanAmericans, especially African-American men, when I was in college and in graduate school pursuing my degrees in STEM,” he notes. “As a postdoctoral fellow and early faculty member, I worked to act as a role model for younger Black kids by doing outreach in the DC public schools.” Passionate about his work, Fiore-Walker is equally ardent about the city he calls home. So much so, in fact, that he became the town crier of Alexandria in 2011. “I won the position during a city-wide ‘cry off’ between 12 town crier hopefuls,” he explains. “For the competition, we all had to perform a common cry, where we were judged by six judges on deportment, strength of voice and the answers to interview-like questions. We were also allowed to write our own ‘creative cry’ on any topic of our choosing. Each of our tryouts were recorded and posted on the city's website to receive votes from the public. These votes acted as the 7th judge in the deliberation process.” As the town crier, Fiore-Walker is tasked with welcoming visitors to the city (business visitors, tourist groups, etc.), leading parades and kicking off official city events by welcoming the crowd and introducing the mayor or city councilmembers. “Mostly, I serve as an ambassador for the city to the public,” he says. WELLNESS ++ ADVENTURE ADVENTURE 2022 2022 •• 95 95 WELLNESS
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Check out our new assortment of products that will add flavor and flair to any dish. For a huge selection of grills, rubs, seasoning, sauces, charcoal, wood chips and more, visit The Grill Pit!
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GRILL PIT
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7934 FORT HUNT ROAD ALEXANDRIA, VA (703) 765-1555
Helping protect the front lines every day. Since the start of the pandemic, U.S. Air Force veteran Chris has led 3M’s collaboration with the DC-based FEMA COVID-19 Supply Chain Task Force to help ensure that U.S. healthcare workers are protected when it matters most. Learn more about 3M’s commitment at 3M.com/Together. 3M and “3M Science. Applied to Life.” are trademarks of 3M
WELLNESS + ADVENTURE 2022 • 97
2 0 2 2 B R E A K B AS H P H OTO G R A P H Y S U B M I T T E D BY J I L L I A N K E C K H O G A N
The Jillian Keck Hogan Group, with McEnearney Associates, hosted their first annual Break Bash at AboveALX in April to provide a "break" from the last few years and raise money for our local charity, Fund for Alexandria's Child. There was music, video games, a magician and more. We look forward to our next "Break Bash" coming in 2023.
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Simulated or preproduction products shown and subject to change. Certain products not currently available or subject to limited availability. See vehicle websites for details.
The game-changing EV battery platform by GM. Built for ultimate range¹, power and flexibility, it’s the innovation at the heart of General Motors’ expanding electric vehicle lineup.
EVs will never be the same.
Simulated battery shown.
gm.com ©2022 General Motors. All Rights Reserved. Range will vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age, loading, use and maintenance.
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