On the Cover

First and Last name: Mary McCallum

Pronouns: she/her

Location (city and state): Minneapolis, MN

What gets you excited about Midwest Yoga + Life Magazine?

As a body positive yoga instructor and strength coach, I am thrilled for a truly inclusive local publication connecting the local community and highlighting how yoga is for everyone and every body.

What is your vision as a cover model for Midwest Yoga + life?

As a 40-something plus sized person, I’m not your “typical cover model.” I am very excited for the opportunity for more representation of diverse bodies in the yoga community, and to highlight that anyone can practice yoga, regardless of age, size, shape, or ability.

How do you integrate yoga into your life/work balance? 

I like to take a few minutes each day to pause, bring attention to my breath, and take in the beauty in the moment around me.

What does “energy” mean to you? 

When I think of energy, the words “focus” and “attention” come to mind.

Having a regular yoga and meditation practice helped me become more mindful of how I spend my energy and identify what is most important and special to me. Sure, life happens and my energy can be zapped (especially as an introvert!) but practicing mindfulness as a tool helps in managing those ebbs and flows.

What is your favorite color? 

Purple

Coffee or tea? 

Definitely coffee! My favorite coffee drink is an Americano.

Bio:

Mary McCallum is a Curvy Yoga, Accessible Yoga, and Yoga for All certified yoga instructor, passionate about making yoga accessible to everyone. Mary loves teaching how yoga can work for you and dispelling common yoga myths. Her goal is to create a fun, inclusive, supportive, and non-intimidating environment for all ages, sizes, and abilities.

Website: www.marymccallum.co

Social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marymccallumyoga

Instagram: @mary.mccallum

Hair and makeup by: Sarah Elizabeth Artistry
Photography by: Amy Zellmer
Space provided by: The Yoga Center Retreat