A BRIEF HISTORY
Founded in the early 2000's by Dawn Yager, Swami Ambikananda (ordained at the Temple of Kriya Yoga in Chicago), Shanti Yoga has grown and flourished over the years to become the inclusive space that it is today. Yager worked tirelessly to bring yoga to the Carolinas and enrich the lives of many. Countless trainings, workshops, hours of study and devotion have gone into the cultivation of Dawn's teachings; which include Dharma yoga of Sri Dharma Mittra, a background of Ashtanga yoga under Sri K Patthabi Jois, Katonah yoga of Nevine Machaan, and the vast techniques of Kriya yoga under Goswami Kriyananda. Dawn's instruction is a brilliant fusion of all of these.
to learn more about Dawn Yager's current and upcoming projects, visit:
In 2020, after over 20 years of full time teaching, Dawn retired from
round-the-clock studio work. She succeeded the studio to her long
time student and mentee, Sissy Castillo. Castillo began her path of teaching in 2017 with a 200 hour YTT under Dawn, and since then has assisted 4 other 200 hr trainings, become certified to teach Yin yoga, trained extensively in ancient meditation
techniques, and completed her 300 hr YTT also under Dawn.
Sissy came to the practice in a tumultuous time of her life, and has experienced first hand how yoga can offer solace and peace. She believes in the power of a supportive community, a good teacher, and a dedicated personal practice and hopes to share the healing benefits that have helped her over the years with all practitioners who walk through her doors. Sissy has kept alive the teachings and traditions of Shanti Yoga Studio and of all the teachers and yogis who came before her. She is proud to represent Shanti and continues to serve the yoga community daily. As an RYT 500, ERYT 200, and certified YACEP, she shows up for students daily in hopes of facilitating a space conducive to growth, mindfulness, and healing.
