From Rock Bottom to Pura Vida: How Carol Turned Struggle Into a Thriving Community

Yoga gave me strength, but more importantly, it gave me compassion for myself. This deepening connection to yoga led me to take a leap I never thought possible. I traveled to Costa Rica and completed my yoga teacher training at Nexus Yoga Institute. That training changed my life.

When I returned home to Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, I was not the same person anymore. My mental health was stronger. I began to love myself genuinely. Most importantly, I felt called to share this gift of yoga with others. Out of that calling, Pura Vida Yoga BVI was born—a space for healing, community, and transformation.

Building Pura Vida Yoga BVI

Opening my yoga business wasn't easy. I was already self-employed as a music teacher, and suddenly managing two businesses was overwhelming. I remember sitting down to do taxes for the first time and crying over the spreadsheets and trade licenses.

Finding Support

The practical challenges left me questioning how I could balance it all. I even tried joining another yoga studio, but it didn't work out. I feared my dream might end before it even began. Then, life surprised me. A dear friend offered me her restaurant space to teach yoga. That small act of kindness sparked the true beginning of Pura Vida Yoga BVI

Small Beginnings, Steady Growth

I started with just one class a week. That became two, then three. Slowly, I began sharing my journey through Instagram and

social media. From the start, I made a promise to stay authentic. I would share not just the joy but also the struggles, the pain, and the healing. I believe it was this honesty that connected people to my work.

Community and Faith

Support kept showing up in unexpected ways. My roommate from teacher training built my website. Friends and community members stepped in to help. These serendipitous acts reminded me that when you stay strong and trust the process, life provides.

Through it all, I held on to faith in the universe. Even in my hardest moments—when plans failed or doubt crept in—I trusted that everything was unfolding as it should. That faith carried me here. Lessons I've Learned

Owning a business is never easy. It demands work, resilience, and courage. There will be setbacks that make you cry, but if you trust the journey and stay committed, you will find the support you need.

I've learned that when you align with your true purpose, life moves to support you. The challenges never disappear, but they no longer feel like burdens. They become part of your growth.

Today, I can say I am living my best life. I wake up every day grateful, aligned, and devoted to both my healing and the community I serve through yoga. Pura Vida Yoga BVI is more than a business. It is my heart, my purpose, and my way of giving back.

My Message to Founders

Your struggles don’t define your ending. They are often the doorway to your greatest purpose. Hold on to faith, stay open, and trust the process even when the path feels unclear. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness, the tiniest opportunities, and the most unexpected connections become the foundation of everything you've been dreaming of.

Business Takeaways from Start Small

One class can grow into a thriving business if you remain consistent and patient.

Stay Authentic

Honesty about your journey—both the highs and lows—builds real trust with your community.

Trust the Process

Even in setbacks, faith and resilience open doors you cannot see yet. Lean on Community

Support often comes from unexpected places. Allow yourself to receive help.

Purpose Over Profit

When your work comes from alignment and love, business challenges feel lighter and more meaningful.

At , we don't just share inspiring stories — we break down what makes yoga businesses succeed. By learning directly from real founders and entrepreneurs, we extract actionable lessons and proven strategies you can apply, so you can avoid common mistakes, feel more confident, grow faster, and make bold choices with clarity.