Meet Mariam Sufi, July’s Instructor of the Month at MINT! Mariam describes herself as an energized and enthusiastic person. You can find Mariam teaching Zumba and belly dance cardio.

Mariam’s fitness journey began when she was really young starting with dance classes at the age of 4. She has always been active in some way shape or form, even playing basketball while also being part of the dance conservatory in high school. Staying active became more than a hobby for Mariam while she was in college. Setting up a discipline to hold herself accountable to every day, whether it was to take a dance class, yoga class, or go for a run, was important for her. It helped her feel more energized and less stressed, and it was a constant every day. Doing this helped remind her how important it is to take an hour or two out of the day to recharge and “do you”.

Mariam has been taking belly dance classes almost every day since she was 11 years old. It was her form of expression and the style of dance that she felt the most connected to. It helped her figure out who she was and wanted to be, and it really helped her own her body the way it was. Her own journey is what led her to want to share with others and help them find the power within themselves to love the skin they’re in.

Mariam believes that fitness starts from within. If you do not trust yourself and your intentions, you will never be able to enjoy the journey. In her 15+ years of experience, she has seen and heard some pretty inspiring stories. Every single day she has an opportunity to help someone, and it is rewarding and motivating. She loves it!

Outside of teaching, she loves spending time with her 5-month-old puppy, Magic, as well as her husband, Kamran. You can typically find them on long walks, at Union Market or whipping up new and healthy meals in the kitchen.

Learn more about MINT and all of our classes and instructors online today, www.mintgymdc.com