TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Two months after a deadly shooting, Hot Yoga Tallahassee is back open at its Midtown studio.
The first classes were held on Saturday, following the Nov. 2 tragedy that took the lives of Maura Binkley and Dr. Nancy Van Vessem.
Remaining true to the meaning of yoga, communion of the physical and the spiritual, Hot Yoga Tallahassee welcomed students back to give thanks and honor those whose lives were lost.
"It's a great place to find inner peace, really, it's a special place for me and I almost went to that class and I want to be part of this return," said Matthew Miller.
Carrying yoga mats and water bottles the attendees looked like ordinary yoga students but Saturday was about more than just a class.
"Hot Yoga Tallahassee has become like a second home for me since I moved to Tallahassee a few years ago. I was devastated when the shooting happened a couple months ago and so as soon as I saw the reopening happening, I signed up for the class right away," said Brittany Mathes.
Every spot in Saturday's classes was filled, plus there was a waiting list.
The reason for being here for the first class was personal to each student, but the common thread was one of love, support and a desire to see the mission of Hot Yoga Tallahassee, and of yoga in general, continue.
"It's such a moment for us to come together in peace and solidarity and to take a stand that this is not going to stop our lives. We're going to keep going," said Alva Striplin.
Many yoga classes end with students lying in the fetal position, a symbol of rebirth.
"I just am so happy that they're moving forward and the families of Maura and Nancy are supportive of that and that we win. We're going to move forward in love," said Virginia Ponder.
Saturday marked the rebirth of this much loved studio which hopes to continue to serve the community that has offered them endless love and support.
