Dear Baltimore Community

Dear Baltimore Community,

Baltimore has always held a special place in my heart. When we first opened, I didn’t know much about the city, but I was drawn in by the incredible teachers I connected with. When the opportunity came to plant roots here, I was thrilled. The studio we built was beautiful, and I loved spending time in that space.

During COVID, our Baltimore studio became part of what I often called an “underground railroad” of studios — a safe haven where people could still gather to practice and commune. By the grace of God, we made it through that difficult season, even as many studios around us closed. In my heart, I believed we would be okay.

But the truth is, we never fully recovered after COVID. Competition, loss of key staff, and structural issues in the building made it an uphill climb. Every summer, we faced floods that got worse year after year. Still, the community showed up. You shook it off, you practiced, you supported each other.

When we first began planning our Fells Point studio, it was meant to be our second location — not a replacement. Our vision was to expand, not to leave Mount Vernon behind. But as the water intrusion worsened, and as the landlord refused to provide sufficient remedy while also seeking to double the rent, it became clear we were being backed into a corner. We did all we could, but sometimes you have to recognize when the stars are not aligning.

I know it wasn’t always easy to connect with me. Some felt I was turning the studio into something unfamiliar; others thought I was unapproachable. But I kept showing up — coming several times a week, taking classes, working to deepen my connection with those who stayed committed. It came at great personal and financial cost, but I believed in this community.

What made it worth it was you. During COVID, Baltimore led the way on our online platform, taking multiple classes a day and topping the leaderboard in every challenge. This was the first studio to appoint a “mayor” who became our beloved “Gubnor.” You made this community special, strong, and one-of-a-kind.

So yes, it saddens me deeply to say we are closing this chapter. I fought hard for this studio, but I could not accept terms that ignored both safety and fairness. I want you to know this: I didn’t give up. I made the choice to protect our values, our mission, and our future.

I am optimistic about what comes next. We are preparing for the launch of our new wellness collective in Fells Point, where we will carry forward the spirit of Baltimore into a space that allows us to grow, innovate, and thrive.

Thank you for every class, every moment of connection, every ounce of support along the way. Baltimore will always be part of me, and I hope you’ll continue with us into this next phase.

With love, gratitude, and hope,

Kendra