Meet Dr. Andrea Hansen, originally from Australia, she has lived all over the world but returned to Kamloops over a decade ago!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family, because they rock. I feel blessed to have a family that I always have fun with, great conversations, we can go deep or stay on the surface… anything goes! I feel loved and they are so easy to love back.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
This is very hard to answer. The Art We Are! Because their food is always so great and I love the local arts
Describe yourself in one word.
Intense. Intense about the things I do and love.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Smugglers Cove, Bowen Island. I grew up going there every summer, from the day we got out of school until the day we had to go back. I love every little thing about that place.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Currently, martial arts.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I fell flat on my face in front of 90 grade nines (when I myself was also in grade nine) during square dancing lessons. The instructor stopped the music and asked me if I was "OK" over the loudspeaker!!!!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Having kids has intensely inspired me because I am pushed every day to be a better person and to dig deep. I feel I should also add that discovering classical Chinese medicine also inspires me deeply as a study that is so rich and fulfilling. The practice and the knowledge keep me going in my daily work.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Either playing in the forest, ocean, hilltops, or cabins on Bowel Island or the day I got my horse, Major! Those memories fill my heart.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer at Tiger Martial Arts in my daughters' martial arts class and as a helper, at various events in the community the dojang puts on.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
People not loving themselves enough.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Coonie Bay
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
More food options. I would love to see more restaurants and cafes that serve dairy free, wheat free, and sugar-free foods.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
All the great outdoors just minutes away!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Become a 2nd-degree black belt in Teuk Gong
- Sing in a hilly billy band
- Be in a performance at the Sagebrush
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was born in Papua New Guinea.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook or email
What is the name of your business/organization?
Wild Roots Chinese Medicine Clinic
Why did you get into/start this business?
Because Chinese medicine is a passion for me. I get to try and help people be as comfortable and peaceful physiologically and emotionally. I am so grateful this is my job!
What is the goal of your business?
Wild Roots Acupuncture Clinic
What do you always find yourself saying?
Slow Down
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Slow Down, and practice saying "I choose to be here!"
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
The most obvious one would be my two daughters but for the purpose of this exercise, I will say … myself! lol
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Sustainability and as a small business owner we need to think about our community and its success. Support local!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Making two babies and getting them out of my body! lol. I am also very proud of having grown a successful Chinese medicine practice in Kamloops.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My husband! Because he is activist for so many good causes and I love and admire him so much!
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Shawna Wafler
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
