We’re inside a small boutique yoga studio tucked along a tree-lined Brooklyn street. The space smells faintly of eucalyptus and lavender. Exposed brick lines one wall, soft instrumental music hums low in the background, and sunlight filters through sheer curtains, landing gently across polished wood floors.

A few women quietly roll up their mats as the afternoon class ends. Danyelle Hayes remains seated cross-legged on hers, spine straight, skin glowing, her energy calm but alert. She’s dressed in a matching workout set that looks more stylish than athletic.

“I don’t come here to work out,” she says with a giggle, brushing a curl from her face. “I come here because it counts as movement for me. I hate working out but I love eating, so this is like… a healthy compromise.”

She checks the time on her phone.

Two hours before school pickup. She’s the PTA president. There’s a meeting tonight at the brownstone. Her calendar is full, so she makes me promise this will be quick.

Still glowing, still grounded, I don’t waste time.