Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Chevy Chase, MD

As their primary androgen, testosterone helps men develop common male characteristics and is essential in the production of sperm. Controlled by your body's pituitary gland and hypothalamus, testosterone helps develop and maintain:

Muscle Mass

Muscle Mass

Facial and Body Hair

Facial and Body Hair

Sex Organs

Sex Organs

Healthy Libido

Healthy Libido

Healthy Libido

Bone Density

Healthy Libido

Sexual Function

Healthy Libido

Healthy Red Blood Cell Levels

When low testosterone or hypogonadism occurs, however, males begin to notice concerning symptoms that often affect their everyday lives and romantic relationships.

 Muscle Mass Chevy Chase, MD

When men lose significant amounts of testosterone, it alters their body's levels of testosterone and estrogen. Lower T levels usually result in abdominal fat, which in turn causes estrogen synthetize levels to increase, creating even higher levels of estrogen in the body. With more estrogen and less testosterone, a number of concerning issues begin to surface. Some of the symptoms of low testosterone include:

  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Lowered Libido
  • Lowered Sperm Count
  • More Body Fat
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Issues with Concentration
  • Male Breast Development
  • Less Muscle Mass
  • Motivation Issues

If you're a man struggling with one or more of the symptoms above, it could be because you have low testosterone. But the only way you can find out for sure is to have your testosterone levels tested by a wellness center like Proactive Wellness. If your testosterone levels are low, TRT in Chevy Chase, MD, may be the answer to your low-T problems.

Book Appointment phone-number (703) 822-5003
 Facial And Body Hair Chevy Chase, MD

Understanding The Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Are you starting to notice that you don't feel like "you" when you're at home or at work? Do you feel tired and lethargic all the time, even in your free time away from the office? Many men mistake these symptoms for being too sleepy or too busy. But the truth is, they're suffering from low testosterone. Since no two males will have the same symptoms of low T, it's prudent to recognize and understand some of the most common signs:

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction

If there were two words that all men wish to avoid, it's these two. Being unable to perform in the most intimate moments isn't just embarrassing - it can affect long-term relationships and mental health. It's a difficult topic to talk about. But it doesn't have to be. Our experts are ready to help you re-light that special spark.

Low Libido

Low Libido

When you have low testosterone, sometimes the thought of having sex just isn't appealing. If you're one of the many men in the U.S. who lacks sex drive, it might not be you. I could be low testosterone. Don't settle for a mediocre sex drive - reclaim your vigor at Proactive Wellness Centers.

Lack of Sleep

Lack of Sleep

Do you work hard every day and come home exhausted, only to find that you toss and turn all night long? Whether you have undiagnosed insomnia or another sleep disorder, it could be linked to low T.

 Sex Organs Chevy Chase, MD
 Healthy Libido Chevy Chase, MD
Less Strength and Muscle Mass

Less Strength and Muscle Mass

When testosterone levels deplete as we age, men lose their ability to lift heavy items, even with weightlifting routines in the gym. If you're making a concerted effort to maintain your muscle mass and strength but aren't making gains, it could be due to low T.

Depression

Depression

Your brain is home to many testosterone receptors, but when your body has low T, it can affect your mood. With time, poor spirits can lead to serious psychological issues, like depression. However, studies show that TRT in Chevy Chase, MD, can rebalance your hormones, which can help relieve depression and improve your mood.

Lack of Concentration

Lack of Concentration

Do you find it hard to complete normal tasks when you're at work? Does it seem like your memory is fading? Does your spouse or significant other complain that you're not paying attention to them? The effects of low testosterone don't just affect your body - they can affect your mind and memory, too. When your testosterone levels are within normal range, brain fog and other concentration issues have been shown to go away.

 Bone Density Chevy Chase, MD

What are the Risks of Living with Low Testosterone?

At Proactive Wellness Centers, we understand what men must go through daily when they have low testosterone. They suffer from fatigue and lack motivation and often don't feel like their usual selves. But as bad as those symptoms sound, living with low T can have more severe health risks that that put vital organs at risk. Some of the most concerning health risks you should be aware of include the following:

Book Appointment phone-number (703) 822-5003

Some of the most concerning health risks you should be aware of include the following:

 Sexual Function Chevy Chase, MD
heart-health

Heart Health

If you've been told by a doctor that you have high blood pressure, you're probably wondering what it stems from. Is it aging? Is it hereditary? Is it something else? According to academic research, men with low T have a higher chance of developing cardiovascular illnesses. When testosterone levels are low, red blood cell reproduction suffers. When that happens, plaque buildup in your arteries may be accelerated. With time, plaque building can lead to very serious problems like strokes and heart attacks.

Anemia

Anemia

When you have anemia, your body has a lack of or dysfunctional red blood cells, meaning your organs have less oxygen with which to function. Because testosterone has a role in healthy red blood cell production, it makes sense that men with low t have a higher risk of anemia. In fact, a 2009 study found that older men with low T are 5x more likely to be anemic than men with healthy levels of testosterone. While TRT in Chevy Chase, MD, isn't a cure for anemia, it will help produce more red blood cells in your body, which can prevent anemia.

Diabetes

Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes or diabetes, and you're trying to figure out why, it may be linked to your T levels. That's because men with low testosterone have a greater chance of developing diabetes as they age. Similarly, men with diabetes are much more likely to have low testosterone, establishing a relationship between diabetes and testosterone. This relationship is further solidified by the fact that men with low T have a more challenging time resisting insulin. Though TRT won't cure diabetes, studies show that men with healthy testosterone levels also have healthier blood sugar levels and are often less obese.

Obesity

Obesity

If you look in the mirror in the morning and can't stand how much body fat you've gained since getting older, you're not alone. Many aging men have problems with their waistlines. If you eat well and exercise regularly but still can't get rid of that unsightly stomach or body fat, the culprit may be low testosterone. Multiple studies have shown the link between obesity and low T. In fact, testosterone plays an important role in food metabolism by regulating insulin, glucose, and fat. Fortunately, when combined with diet and exercise, men who undergo TRT can often lose weight and enjoy improved blood glucose and low-density cholesterol levels.

Enjoy Life to the Fullest with TRT in Chevy Chase, MD

 Healthy Red Blood Cell Levels Chevy Chase, MD

Testosterone replacement therapy does precisely what it sounds like: It is a science-backed therapy that replaces low testosterone levels in men. The ultimate goal of TRT is to improve your life and well-being by balancing your hormones. Also referred to as androgen replacement therapy, TRT helps many men deal with and overcome the debilitating side effects of low T.

Originally developed by scientists in the 1930s, TRT has grown substantially in popularity over the years. Today, it is one of the most common and promising treatments for males with low testosterone.

How Does TRT Work?

Without getting too scientific, TRT works by providing your body with the testosterone it needs to function properly. Without healthy levels of testosterone, the male body can't maintain the natural processes it needs for overall health. In fact, men with low testosterone levels are more prone to serious health problems like type-2 diabetes and even heart disease. Until their T levels are restored to normal, most men suffer until they find a solution.

That's where TRT comes into play. With balanced hormones, your body can finally begin to heal, causing most symptoms of low t to diminish greatly.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy Chevy Chase, MD

Make an Appointment

Book Appointment phone-number (703) 822-5003

The Proactive Wellness Approach to TRT in Chevy Chase, MD

At Proactive Wellness Centers, our team utilizes a three-pronged approach to healing and treatment:

01

Patient Education. We equip you with the knowledge needed to take charge of your health and achieve optimal well-being in your life.

02

Prevention. We focus on preventing diseases by providing you with a thorough evaluation, which includes comprehensive diagnostics and the information you provide on your health history form.

03

Rejuvenation. Lastly, we work closely with you to implement a rejuvenation program consisting of several science-based treatments that aim to promote tissue regeneration, reduce cellular degeneration, foster healing, and slow your aging process.

Because no two patients ever have the exact same needs and treatment, your journey to journey to optimal health will be unique and tailored to your body.
However, to give you a brief snapshot of the average patient's TRT timeline may look like this:

Getting Started:

You contact our TRT clinic in Virginia. Based on your schedule, we'll arrange for a time for you to come in for your initial assessment.

Diagnostics and Evaluation:

One of our diagnostic experts will complete comprehensive testing to discover your testosterone and related hormone levels and your best treatment options.

Review Testing:

We'll sit with you one-on-one to discuss the results of your lab tests. During this session, a medical practitioner will also answer any questions you have about low T and testosterone replacement therapy.

Begin Your Custom TRT Regimen:

Based on your lifestyle, goals, and test results, we'll craft a custom TRT plan exclusively for you.

Success Coaching:

When you undergo TRT at Proactive Wellness Centers, you're never alone. We'll be by your side the entire way to ensure your treatment is going well and you're hitting your benchmarks. We'll keep track of your progress, and if there are areas that need improvement, we'll work with you to accomplish the goals you haven't achieved yet. Because, at the end of the day, a little bit of encouragement can go a long way.

Enjoy the Results:

This is the best part! With time and care, you'll begin to notice the effects of TRT and will be well on your way to enjoying balanced hormones.

 Muscle Mass Chevy Chase, MD

Trust The Proactive Wellness Difference

Did you know that 13 million males suffer from low T, but a whopping 90% go untreated by doctors? The reason is that conventional doctors believe that unless your Testosterone level is below the low lab reference range level, that your are "OK". At Proactive Wellness, we help you to optimize and be the best you can be, not just OK. Why be OK, when with the help of the right Testosterone dose, you can feel better, be healthier, stronger and more vibrant. If you believe that your testosterone levels are at unhealthy levels, it's time to contact Proactive Wellness Centers for testing. Living with low testosterone is a risk, but with personalized TRT in Chevy Chase, MD, you can minimize the harmful effects on your body.

Unlike other TRT clinics, we utilize a more complete and personalized approach to Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Our approach considers the role of DHEA, another very important hormone that needs to be balanced. And we look at Estradiol conversion, the unwanted effect where some men convert too much Testosterone to estradiol. In this case, these men (about 10%) need a medication to block this conversion, called an aromatase inhibitor. But notice that I mentioned that only 10% of men need this, but at many men's clinics, all men automatically get an aromatase inhibitor whether they need it or not. This drives Estradiol too low, causing other issues. Yes, Men need Estradiol also, but they need it in the proper proportion. Bottom line, our personalized approach ensures that you get exactly what you need, no more and no less.

Further, Proactive Wellness offers the widest range of Testosterone Replacement options so that men can choose the best for their particular lifestyle. Choose from pellets that are inserted just under the skin and last for 4-5 months, or the most popular option, Test Cypionate injections that are typically done weekly, or specialized transdermal cream or even a specialized intranasal application that mimics natural testosterone levels. Any of these methods are available at Proactive Wellness Centers so that you can get the option that is right for you.

Is testosterone replacement therapy enough? Maybe, it all depends on your goals and your lab results. Many men are also deficient in growth hormone (GH) and this hormone can also contribute to you not being your best. If this one is low, Proactive Wellness offers a range of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) peptides to increase your GH levels. Many men combine this with TRT to feel their absolute best.

If you're ready to reclaim your confidence and return to loving life on your own terms, our physicians and medical team are ready to help. Don't be one of those men who constantly complain about their health but don't do anything about it. Contact Proactive Wellness Centers today to make a difference in your life!

phone-number (703) 822-5003

Book an Appointment

Latest News in Chevy Chase, MD

100K Without Power In Maryland After Storms

The National Weather Service issued its highest storm threat level for MD since 2019. Power outages topped 100K in MD Monday night.|Updated Mon, Aug 7, 2023 at 11:02 pm ETUpdated at 10:30 p.m. MondayMARYLAND — As strong thunderstorms rumbled through the Baltimore-DC region Monday, heavy rain and gusty winds knocked out power to more than 100,000 utility customers.A tornado watch was issued for most of Maryland until 9 p.m. as a widespread outbreak of severe weather winds down, the National...

The National Weather Service issued its highest storm threat level for MD since 2019. Power outages topped 100K in MD Monday night.

|Updated Mon, Aug 7, 2023 at 11:02 pm ET

Updated at 10:30 p.m. Monday

MARYLAND — As strong thunderstorms rumbled through the Baltimore-DC region Monday, heavy rain and gusty winds knocked out power to more than 100,000 utility customers.

A tornado watch was issued for most of Maryland until 9 p.m. as a widespread outbreak of severe weather winds down, the National Weather Service said. Fifteen counties were included in the watch with heavy winds — possibly reaching 80 miles per hour, the speed of a category 1 hurricane — predicted.

Ahead of the severe storms, the Office of Personnel Management said it will close federal offices at 3 p.m. Monday. “Employees should depart 2 hours earlier than their normal departure time and may request Unscheduled Leave to depart prior to their staggered departure time,” OPM said on its website. “All employees Must Depart no later than 3:00 at which time Federal offices are Closed.”

The University of Maryland's College Park campus close early at 3 p.m. due to the expected storms. In Montgomery County, the parks department said that Sligo Creek Parkway and Beach Drive have closed to vehicles due to the risk of flooding and downed trees.

The areas under the tornado watch, in effect until 9 p.m. on Monday, include Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince George's, Howard, Carroll, Frederick, Washington, Cecil, Baltimore, and Prince George's counties and Baltimore City.

A severe thunderstorm warning was issued until 6:30 p.m. for Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George's and Baltimore City.

The NWS said at 5:41 p.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from Ellicott City to near Laurel to Potomac, moving east at 45 mph. The main hazard with the storm is 60 mph wind gusts.

Gov. Wes Moore's office urged Marylanders to pay attention to weather alerts.

Marylanders should use the following resources to follow developments:

Given the risk for severe storms, forecasters are advising the public to pay attention to weather details as the day progresses and sign up for weather alerts.

"Now is the time to review your severe weather safety procedures for the possibility of dangerous weather today," the NWS said. "While seeking shelter indoors, go to the lowest floor to an interior room. Stay away from windows. Those in mobile homes or weaker structures should plan ahead of time to shelter in a stronger shelter. Be prepared for extended power outages, and the potential for some roads to be blocked by fallen trees."

A population of 13.2 million is under the "moderate risk" level.

People in the path of the storms should take protective action like securing loose objects outside and making space for a car inside a garage. Residents are also encouraged to charge tablets, phones and other portable devices in the case of widespread power outages.

Monday's thunderstorms should end by 10 p.m., followed by a partly cloudy evening as temperatures will drop only into the low 70s.

After the storms move through on Monday, dry weather is in the forecast for the next two days, when the first-place Orioles will be hosting the 2022 World Series champion Houston Astros at Camden Yards. There's a slight chance of storms for the Orioles' afternoon game against the Astros on Thursday.

Here is a look at the National Weather Service forecast for most of central Maryland for the rest of the work week:

Monday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 5 p.m. Some storms could be severe, with damaging winds and heavy rain. High near 91.

Monday night: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 11pm. Some of the storms could be severe and produce heavy rainfall. Low around 73.

Tuesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 86. West wind 13 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Tuesday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. West winds 8 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 90. West winds 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Thursday: A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 88.

Thursday night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.

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Maryland homeowner nearly pets bear he believed was neighbor’s dog

CHEVY CHASE, Md. — A Maryland man thought he would pet a dog that wandered into his backyard. But that was no dog -- it was a black bear, and the resident had a close encounter that left him scrambling to safety.>> Read more trending newsThe Chevy Chase resident, who requested anonymity, said he heard a noise in his backyard on Wednesday night, ...

CHEVY CHASE, Md. — A Maryland man thought he would pet a dog that wandered into his backyard. But that was no dog -- it was a black bear, and the resident had a close encounter that left him scrambling to safety.

>> Read more trending news

The Chevy Chase resident, who requested anonymity, said he heard a noise in his backyard on Wednesday night, WRC-TV reported.

When the man went to investigate, he said he got within inches of the animal and went to pet it before realizing it was a bear, according to the television station.

BEAR SIGHTINGS: A homeowner in Chevy Chase said he nearly pet a bear he mistook for his neighbor's dog in his backyard last night. The sighting comes a day after a bear was spotted in a Kensington nearby. https://t.co/g9YysP2Qr5

— NBC4 Washington (@nbcwashington) April 27, 2023

The man ran back into his home and called authorities, WRC reported.

It is not the first time a bear has been spotted in the area. One was seen digging through garbage cans in nearby Kensington earlier this week, the Washingtonian reported.

The area is only a few blocks away from interstate traffic on the inner loop of the Capital Beltway.

In Kensington, resident Ian Velinsky said he may not walk his dog again in the neighborhood until “there is some resolution.”

Fellow resident Andrea Heyl said she received messages about the animal roaming through the neighborhood.

“I was just about to step outside and I read the text that said, ‘There’s a bear on your front yard,’” Heyl told WRC. “So I stopped, I came back inside and then all, you know, we went crazy because we have a lot of pets and we wanted to make sure everyone was inside and accounted for.”

Bears are rare in Montgomery County, according to Jonathan Trudeau of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. He said they tend to breed in Maryland’s western counties and that the ones seen in Chevy Chase or Kensington are young males passing through the area, the Washingtonian reported.

Trudeau emphasized that people should never feed -- or even approach -- a bear.

“This applies to wildlife in general; they do not need you to feed them to survive,” Trudeau told the publication.

Flood Watch Issued As Multiple Rounds Of Storms Threaten MD

The NWS issued a flood watch for portions of Maryland on Monday, with rain falling at a rate of more than 2 inches per hour in some areas.|Updated Mon, Aug 14, 2023 at 3:56 pm ETUpdated at 2:30 p.m. ETMARYLAND — A flood watch for seven Maryland counties was issued by the National Weather Service Monday afternoon as severe storms are expected. Baltimore, Cecil, Prince George's, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Howard and Harford.The flood watch is in effect from 5 p.m. through Tuesday at 2 a.m., according to the N...

The NWS issued a flood watch for portions of Maryland on Monday, with rain falling at a rate of more than 2 inches per hour in some areas.

|Updated Mon, Aug 14, 2023 at 3:56 pm ET

Updated at 2:30 p.m. ET

MARYLAND — A flood watch for seven Maryland counties was issued by the National Weather Service Monday afternoon as severe storms are expected. Baltimore, Cecil, Prince George's, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Howard and Harford.

The flood watch is in effect from 5 p.m. through Tuesday at 2 a.m., according to the National Weather Service, which also said isolated large hail is possible.

Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible Monday evening and overnight. Rain rates of more than two inches per hour are possible, the NWS said.

WBAL-TV meteorologist Chelsea Ingram said a strong cold front is expected to come through Maryland late Monday afternoon and into the evening.

“That’s going to help ignite and trigger some stronger thunderstorms, some of which could turn severe,” Ingram said.

The main risk is damaging winds, but there could be large hail as well as an isolated tornado, she said. “ I don’t want to rule that out,” she added.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has placed Maryland under a slight risk (level 2/5) as damaging winds will be the main threat. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding concerns, while large-sized hail and an isolated tornado is not out of the question, WMAR's Stevie Daniels said Monday morning.

A second round of storms lingers Tuesday, with the greatest potential for severe storms south and east of I-95.

After the storms leave on Tuesday, Maryland will experience several days in a row of sunshine, with little chance of rain or storms, according to forecasters.

Here is a look at the National Weather Service forecast for Maryland for the week:

Monday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming southeast 5 to 8 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 87.

Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 71.

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 87.

Navy Yard’s Southern Staple Due South Is En Route to Chevy Chase

Due South, Navy Yard’s sprawling destination for whiskeys and smoked meats since 2015, will expand across town later this year.Due South’s sophomore edition in Chevy Chase hopes to debut by the end of 2023, owner Bo Blair tells Eater. The prolific D.C. restaurateur also runs sandwich shop Jetties, which has an upper Northwest location near the incoming Due South (...

Due South, Navy Yard’s sprawling destination for whiskeys and smoked meats since 2015, will expand across town later this year.

Due South’s sophomore edition in Chevy Chase hopes to debut by the end of 2023, owner Bo Blair tells Eater. The prolific D.C. restaurateur also runs sandwich shop Jetties, which has an upper Northwest location near the incoming Due South (5708 Connecticut Avenue NW).

The 3,400-square-foot Southeast original with a big patio is known for its long list of drafts, brown spirits (including its own label of rye), and best-selling smoked wings with a dry rub and Alabama white sauce. Other favorites from longtime chef-partner Rusty Holman include shrimp and grits, pimento-and-bacon burgers, po’boys, and all sorts of biscuit sandwiches for brunch. A smoker sends out regional barbecue favorites like Texas-style brisket, Carolina-style pulled pork, and salt-and-pepper baby back ribs, with sides like potato salad, braised collard greens, corn muffins, and sauces.

Blair’s Georgetown Events hospitality group is also behind late-night taco chain Surfside, the open-air Bullpen near Nationals Park, and Spring Valley’s New England-meets-Baja California restaurant Millie’s, which has a whole golf-themed menu dedicated to the Masters Tournament this week.

The Due South expansion news is the latest in a string of exciting Chevy Chase dining developments. Coastal American eatery Opal opened last fall along the upper Northwest strip and is already up for a Michelin Guide nod. And neighborhood restaurateur Tim Walsh (the Avenue, Capital Crab) just announced plans to bring an outdoor destination for carnival games, tacos, and whiskey to a storied Chevy Chase corner.

DC’s Most Adventurous Record Store Just Opened in Chevy Chase

The Chevy Chase Arcade is a pretty space with a long history, but it’s not exactly known as a hub of hip shopping. Back in the 1930s, you could patronize a plumber, a barber shop, and a pharmacy, and that’s been the general small-town vibe ever since. It is not, to say the least, a place you would think to stop by to peruse the latest trove of avant-garde jazz or German minimal-techno records.But starting today, that sleepy indoor corridor on Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase DC is home to one of the city’s most exci...

The Chevy Chase Arcade is a pretty space with a long history, but it’s not exactly known as a hub of hip shopping. Back in the 1930s, you could patronize a plumber, a barber shop, and a pharmacy, and that’s been the general small-town vibe ever since. It is not, to say the least, a place you would think to stop by to peruse the latest trove of avant-garde jazz or German minimal-techno records.

But starting today, that sleepy indoor corridor on Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase DC is home to one of the city’s most exciting new stores: art sound language. As the name implies, the small shop offers both records and books (including fiction and visual-art offerings). It’s a highly curated selection that focuses on the more-adventurous end of the spectrum. If record labels like Kompakt, Numero Group, and Awesome Tapes From Africa get your ears tingling, this is the place for you.

Releases from Chicago jazz label International Anthem are lined up along one wall, while another is occupied by a grid of paperbacks from New York Review of Books Classics. There are also less-esoteric rock options, like classics from the Velvet Underground and the Slits. Did you ever spend an entire paycheck during a single gape-mouthed binge at Other Music in New York? Then you get the idea.

Related

The Surprising Discovery of Hailu Mergia’s Great Lost Ethiopian Album

This eclectic mix emanates from the brain of an affable guy named PJ Brownlee, who you’ll almost certainly meet if you drop in. So what connects, say, a record by Brazilian great Tom Zé to the novel Cassandra at the Wedding? “It’s what I call ‘crafted juxtaposition,’ ” says Brownlee, who lives nearby in Chevy Chase, Maryland. “That’s the beauty of it. I’m really into juxtaposition for how it charges each thing, each category that you put together.”

If that sounds like something a gallery curator might say, that’s because Brownlee’s background is in the visual-art world. A Florida native, he got a PhD in American Studies at George Washington University, then ended up working as a curator for the Terra Foundation for American Art in Chicago. About a year and a half ago, he and his family moved back to this area, and Brownlee decided to forge ahead with his long-brewing idea for a record and book shop. He’s put a ton of thought into it, from the look of the logo (the very first thing he did was get an ink stamp made) to the design of the space (“It’s clean, but I don’t want it to be clinical; I want it to be welcoming”) to the whole underlying concept: “It might sound silly,” he says, “but I have thought about this as being an art project from start to finish.”

Though a lot of the inventory tilts toward the obscure, you don’t have to be a total nerd to explore the offerings at art sound language. “I don’t mind if people don’t know anything” about the music on the shelves, Brownlee says. “I’m trying to fill [the store] with the best stuff I feel like is out there—the most interesting. I want to bring out like-minded people, maybe turn some people on with some good stuff, to learn about new good stuff, and to make connections and meet people. It’s already paying off.”

art sound language is open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s located inside the Chevy Chase Arcade at 5520 Connecticut Ave., NW. An opening party will be held inside the arcade on February 18 from 3 to 6 p.m., featuring music from The Caribbean, Insect Factory, and Raven Bauer Durham.

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