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Meet Megan! Megan was born in Vancouver but has called Kelowna home for over 30 years!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born in Vancouver, BC. My family moved to Kelowna when I was 2 years old. I have proudly called Kelowna home for 30 years!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My 4 year old son, Cameron. He illuminates the best parts of me. We both love to travel and meet new people. His innate desire for connection inspires me daily.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
There's nothing better than a sunny Saturday stroll through the Kelowna Farmer's market. I love the community vibes delicious + local produce/treats.
Describe yourself in one word.
Luminous.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Tribune Bay beach on Hornby Island. It's a sacred spot full of natural magic + beauty.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Skinny dipping in Okanagan lake.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I was at the gym and attempting to use a new piece of equipment. I stepped off the machine too quickly and a ton of weights came crashing down. It made a huge thud + every head in the gym turned to see what had happened. Yep, that was embarrassing.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
My greatest inspiration has come from times of transition. My transition from maiden to mother was earth-shattering and life-altering. I experienced a deeper capacity to love, a stronger sense of self and a magical connection with my intuition. I also let go of many roles and responsibilities I assumed in my life to create space for a new version of myself. This time of transformation encouraged me to witness my inner strength, my resilient nature and willingness to surrender + evolve.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
When I was a young girl I used to volunteer at the local SPCA. I loved working with the animals and would often develop a strong bond with them. Every couple of months I would bring home a different animal to 'foster' until they found their forever home. Bless my parents for allowing this to happen as they were well aware I wanted to keep every animal. One month I brought home a particularly misfit pup named Zoe. She won our hearts and we ended up being her forever home. When I think of myself as a little girl I think about my deep love for animals and the desire to save them all.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Yoga is for every body and every one. All my classes are inclusive and accessible to all. I encourage mamas to reach out if cost is a barrier for them to join. I have had several mamas attend classes at a reduced rate or complimentary basis.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That every child is well fed, safe and loved. That every child has the ability to live a life full of joy and wonder.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Honestly, I love my home. I live in a tiny one bedroom suite with my son. It's a cozy little space full of authentic love and laughter.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see more multi generational events in Kelowna. Simple gatherings in each neighbourhood cultivating the opportunity to connect and learn from each other. Let's bring back the village and include humans of all ages and stages. There is a lot to learn from our elders, from our immigrants and from the new mama down the street. This might look like using our local schoolyards to come together and connect on a Sunday afternoon. An opportunity to share a few laughs, resources, skills, wisdom and experiences.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The lakes + the mountains, what more do you need?
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Write a book and have it published.
2. Travel across Canada with my son, camping along the way.
3. Volunteer for 6 months in a developing country.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was born with an identical twin sister, Malea. She passed away when we were 2 years old. Every time I want to play small, she encourages me to shine bright.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
@mandalamamas.community on Instagram and Mandala Mamas or Megan McMichael on Facebook
What is the name of your business/organization?
Mandala Mamas
Why did you get into/start this business?
I wanted to create a safe, accepting and loving space for mamas to connect and build community.
What is the goal of your business?
Every class I offer is one hour of movement/postures and 30 minutes of authentic conversation. My goal is to offer mamas the opportunity to connect with their bodies, their babies and an accepting community rooted in motherhood.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Boundaries. I have a kind heart and want to please everyone around me. My greatest struggle has been owning my worth and my voice. Accepting that the only person I need to please is myself.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
"This place where you are right now. God circled on a map for you." {Hafiz} I would not change a thing. I know I am exactly where I need to be.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Breathe
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
You will experience deep love through your journey of deep vulnerability.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Guru Singh. In my opinion, he is the wisest man on Earth. His podcasts have deeply affected the way I view myself and the way I interpret the world around me. He is full of deep wisdom and overflowing love and reverence for the world.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To build connections and to support the passionate, creative and drive change makers in our community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Trusting my authentic skills and offerings. I haven't always trusted the gifts I have to offer the world. It has been an ebb and flow of self doubt and empowerment. I am proud of the connections I have facilitated through Mandala Mamas.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My best friend Shalanne. She is a continuous support in my life. She accepts me for exactly who I am. We share a mutual love for great music and adventurous living. She has the kindest heart and is a gem of a woman.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Joss Frank of Wild Womb Space
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I offer weekly Prenatal Yoga and Baby + Me Yoga classes in Kelowna. If you are expecting a baby or a fresh mama and would like to join a class, please reach out. I would love for you to join our Mandala Mamas community.
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.
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. Thank you, Kelowna!
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