What started out as a dream come true for Cheryl Lehman and her business partners, suddenly turned into a nightmare.
Their brand new yoga studio, Akasha Yoga, had only been open for a week before the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to shut the doors.
"It was weird, devastating and scary all at the same time," Lehman said.
They waited two long months wondering the entire time whether or not their business would survive.
"There were a lot of people that really took a deep breath and wanted a place to come and experience some sort of exercise," added Lehman.
Today, the studio is open and running at 50% capacity. The classes are completely full as they act as an escape for those who are looking to manage the pressure and put away some of the stress the pandemic has caused, even if it's just for one hour.
For Saskia Murray, who is a long-time yoga instructor and student, yoga has kept her mentally focused and at peace throughout the crisis.
"My feelings were very calm and peaceful because the yoga practice instills that into me," said Murray.
As soon as you enter the studio the world around you seems to fade away, along with all troubles.
"You forget what's going on outside," added Murray.
Akasha Yoga made it through to the other side of perhaps the most challenging time our local businesses have ever had to face.
They survived, while many others did not.
Now they are giving back to the community through their service, hoping that it helps people manage the pressure even if it's just a little bit.
"We're elated that we are here and we are here for the long haul," Lehman said.