In the heart of Anacostia, a remarkable new space has opened its doors. Grounded, founded by Mignon Hemsley and Danuelle Doswell, is redefining urban wellness with a unique blend of a plant shop, café, and wellness studio. Located at 1913 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, this vibrant Black-owned oasis invites everyone to breathe, connect, and recharge. It is a sanctuary where the healing power of nature meets self-care.
A Unique Third Space for Wellness
Grounded offers a fresh approach to wellness by combining various elements into one space. It serves as a third space, beyond home or work, where visitors can relax. Mignon Hemsley shares, “Our vision has always been about creating a space where people can slow down, reconnect to nature, and elevate their wellness.” The ambiance is designed to promote mental clarity and emotional well-being.
The space is beautifully designed with natural elements. Integrated planter boxes, concrete and rock accents, and soothing green hues create a calming atmosphere. This biophilic design invites nature indoors, helping to foster a strong connection between people and their environment.
Plants at the Heart of the Experience
At Grounded, the plant shop stands out as a key feature. Visitors can find a curated selection of houseplants that add life to any home or office. But it’s more than just a store; it’s a place where customers can receive guidance from knowledgeable Plant Specialists. They help integrate greenery into everyday spaces to enhance well-being.
Moreover, Grounded offers Planterior Design Services. This means the experts can come directly to your home or office to provide personalized advice on how to incorporate plants into your environment effectively.
A Community Hub with a Focus on Nutrition
Adjacent to the plant shop is the Grounded Café. This café is more than just a place to grab a coffee; it serves as a hub for the community. The menu features fully vegan options, including artisanal coffees sourced from Manos de Mujer, a woman-owned farm in Guatemala. There are also plant-based pastries and creative toasts like avocado and a vegan version of salmon lox.
This commitment to healthy, plant-based nutrition extends Grounded’s mission. It encourages visitors to nourish their bodies as well as their minds.
Holistic Wellness Practices for Mind, Body, and Spirit
Grounded goes beyond plants and nutrition. The on-site Wellness Studio offers various practices designed to nourish the mind, body, and spirit. Classes include yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound bowl therapy, and pilates. Each class focuses on fostering gratitude, abundance, and mindfulness, providing a holistic approach to wellness.
This focus on overall well-being aligns with Hemsley and Doswell’s mission. They believe in reconnecting people with nature to promote a healthier lifestyle. Grounded’s founders started this journey on Earth Day in 2020 as an e-commerce platform and have now evolved into a physical space that embodies their vision.
Grounded’s Impact on the Community
With the opening of Grounded, Hemsley and Doswell are making a significant impact in Anacostia and the wider D.C. area. They are not only providing a space for relaxation and connection but also elevating the community. Over the past four years, they have shipped over 30,000 plants and partnered with more than 100 organizations.
Now, their physical location is a place where people can work, relax, and engage with nature. It’s designed with ample seating and WiFi, making it ideal for remote work or study sessions. Grounded stands as a testament to the power of community and wellness.
In summary, Grounded is a vibrant oasis in D.C. that emphasizes the healing power of nature and self-care. Hemsley and Doswell are paving the way for a new era of urban wellness. By creating a welcoming space, they are planting seeds of change that will surely grow.
