A foundational training where refined skill in biomechanics and movement principles meets subtle body awakening and nervous system intelligence
*Embodied Alchemy is an affiliate school of Circle Yoga Shala*
“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” – The Bhagavad Gita.
Is This Training for Me?
Become a Teacher
Start your journey as a Yoga Alliance certified teacher.
Deepen Your Practice
Explore yoga as a spiritual, embodied path — no teaching required.
Why This Training Is Different
Physical Mastery
Supportive Community
Energetic Presence
(biomechanics, movement principles)
Energetic Presence
Supportive Community
Energetic Presence
(nervous system, subtle body work)
Holistic Approach
Supportive Community
Supportive Community
(body + mind + soul integration)
Supportive Community
Supportive Community
Supportive Community
(local, ongoing, service-based learning)
Embodied Alchemy Team:
Lead Trainer: Laura Castillo
This training is led by Laura Castillo — 500 hour E-RYT, Sacred Embodiment guide, somatic tantric practitioner, and founder of the Sacred Embodiment Academy.
With over 20 years as a mediator and lawyer, 15 years on the mystical path as a tantrika and priestess, and deep training in nervous system regulation, Laura bridges the sacred and the practical to prepare teachers who embody the living lineage of yoga. Laura is honored to be an affiliate school of Circle Yoga Shala.
"I am devoted to guiding others into embodied remembrance through sacred ceremony, somatic practice, and professional trainings—all in service to the awakening of Divine Sophia on the Earth."
Assistant Trainer: Amy Starr
Amy discovered yoga while working in the fast-paced world of corporate television, turning to it as a grounding practice during times of stress. What began as a refuge became a way of life, leading her to complete her 200-hour training in 2021. Today, she teaches weekly classes both online and in person, blending presence, breath, rhythm, and stillness. Her teaching emphasizes foundational movement and somatic inquiry, guiding students toward strength, stability, and self-discovery.
Guest Master Teacher: Holly Krepps
- Holly is the visionary behind Circle Yoga Shala, a C-IAYT yoga therapist, and an E-RYT500 teacher with over 30 years of study and practice. A contemplative guide, she integrates ancient wisdom, recovery traditions, and non-dual teachings into her work with individuals and groups around the world. Holly’s teaching reflects a life lived with deep surrender, radical acceptance, and compassion, offering students a path to peace, presence, and authentic self-connection.
Guest Master Teacher: Matthew Krepps
Matthew, C-IAYT and E-RYT500, has been a practitioner of yoga and Ayurveda for three decades and a teacher trainer for more than 20 years. He co-founded Circle Yoga Shala and developed its 200-hour, 300-hour, and IAYT-accredited Yoga Therapy programs. His private work spans from therapeutic applications of yoga for health conditions to supporting elite athletes worldwide. As an Ayurvedic chef and philosopher, he brings a holistic approach that blends Eastern traditions with Western developmental models, all with the aim of helping individuals flourish on every level of being.
Owner & Assistant Guide: Chelsea Stahl
Chelsea is the heart behind Ambient Yoga, where she’s been sharing her love of practice for over 10 years both on St. Thomas and across the U.S. Living with cystic fibrosis since birth, she first turned to yoga as a way to support her health—and in doing so, discovered its deeper power for healing, connection, and growth. Trained in vinyasa, yoga nidra, flexibility, and breathwork, Chelsea creates a supportive, welcoming space for every student, especially those who may have once felt yoga was out of reach. Her role in training is both owner of the studio and guide for the community, helping future teachers feel grounded, encouraged, and connected throughout their journey.
What You’ll Walk Away With
Teach confidently in studios, gyms, or private settings
Adapt classes to students of all levels and abilities
Deepen your personal practice and yoga philosophy
Build safe alignment and creative sequencing skills
Develop tools for meditation, breathwork, and mindfulness
Graduate with a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Certification
Join Ambient Yoga’s supportive alumni community!
🚨 Last Chance! 🚨
This is the final month to lock in Early Bird Pricing for the Embodied Alchemy Yoga Teacher Training.
Save your spot today and begin your journey with Laura Castillo into the living tradition of yoga.
Pricing increases November 1st. Don’t miss it!