INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Hot Room Yoga Studio is continuing to serve its community during the COVID-19 pandemic by opening virtual fitness classes.

Monthly and annual members get exclusive access that includes daily meditations, family-focused yoga, healthy cooking tips and a virtual boutique offering discounted yoga mats and gear to help make practicing at home a smooth experience.

Instead of having a drop in attendance after the pandemic, studio owner Hye Jin Kalgaonkar says the studio has actually seen more people wanting to take up yoga with their virtual classes.

“A lot of people are starting their yoga practice through our local studio, because they feel safe,” she said.

Meanwhile, new members can try out the classes. A $10 fee goes toward the cause of feeding hungry kids in the city of Indianapolis. They’re giving 100% of the money they get from people who sign up for their “drop-in” classes to the Patachou Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to serving the city’s children in need.

“There’s an urgent need right now for our food-insecure children without access to school meals,” Hye Jin said. “Patachou Foundation is working above and beyond to help this community when they really need it most.”

The Hot Room has worked with the Patachou Foundation for more than a year, but now despite the new challenges, they’re doubling down on their efforts.

“This is a scary time for us, as a small business, too, but anything we can do to help give back to our local community, we’ll do that,” she said. Some of their members have even offered to buy a membership or drop-in virtual class to encourage their friends to stay healthy and connect with their yoga family. 

“Get on your mat, take care of yourselves and know that you’re also doing something really good for our community,” Hye Jin said.

Hye Jin also says while the stay-at-home order is in effect across Indiana, people should use the most of their time at home.

“A lot of people are in isolation right now, sitting on their sofa, watching screens, social media, Netflix and probably eating potato chips at the same time,” she laughed. “If we’re going to get through this challenging time, we have to make sure we do it together, supporting each other, doing things that give us joy and taking care of ourselves physically and mentally.”

The Hot Room will continue to offer virtual classes by moving to an on-demand platform where people can access them 24/7, starting Wednesday.

If you’re interested in The Hot Room virtual studio and want to become a member, email info@thehotroom.com.