Kim Johns
OWNER, OPERATOR, PRACTITIONER
It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Kim Johns and I'm the owner and operator of Sathya Hot Yoga and Wellness. To give you a little background, I was introduced to yoga in 2020 and it quickly became a passion of mine. In 2022, I did my first hot/cold session and knew right then and there that our local Gwinnet County area needed to experience this transformative practice. This was the beginning of Sathya Hot Yoga and Wellness and how our vision came to life.
My top priority is customer satisfaction and creating experiences that are meaningful to my clients. Every aspect of the studio is designed with you in mind. My ultimate goal is to make everyone feel welcome in our community, regardless of any societal labels. I believe that I too can be a part of the change.
When I'm not at the studio, you can find me spending time with my family, hiking nature trails, watching my son play competitive baseball, enjoying the outdoors, and of course, practicing yoga with the Sathya Hot Yoga and Wellness tribe.
I hope to see you soon! Wishing you peace and blessings.
Gigi Gomez
OWNER AND PREMIER INSTRUCTOR
Since she was very young, Gigi has been introduced to Yoga thanks to her passion for contemporary dance in Cuba. From the early 2000s onward, she has been sharing her vast knowledge of various Yoga styles, incorporating principles from Iyengar and Vinyasa flow. Over the years, she has devoted a significant amount of time to teaching, training, and developing her skills in countries like Argentina, Costa Rica, India, and the USA. Gigi's expertise goes beyond Yoga, as she is also certified in Bars and has completed all three levels of REIKI training and certification. Additionally, she continues to expand her knowledge of healing practices by becoming certified in Thai Massage under the guidance of Michael Zitser and the renowned Thai Massage Master, Pichest Boonthumme.
Gigi finds joy in introducing newcomers to her teachings while also pushing experienced practitioners to stretch (quite literally) beyond their comfort zones both mentally and physically. As a devoted advocate for happiness and overall well-being, she is committed to improving her understanding to offer excellent guidance for achieving a more joyful and healthy lifestyle. Her classes are specially crafted to resonate with life's unpredictability, allowing individuals to release traumas and challenge themselves through diverse poses. Yoga, dogs, beaches, and wholesome food hold a special place in Gigi's heart.
“Our body is the vehicle to experience life, and every breath is the fuel of the body. Every time that each of us show up on the mat, we are letting go of what is not serving our life purpose and opening a space for infinite possibilities." - Gigi
Aliya W
KUNDALINI INSTRUCTOR
Aliya began her yoga journey in 2018 and is a Yoga Alliance registered 500 RYT, as well as a 500-hour certified Kundalini Yoga teacher.
She is deeply devoted to the practice, living and embodying yoga as a daily path rather than just a class. Aliya finds inspiration in nature — the mountains, the forest, and quiet moments of connection — where she reconnects with herself and the present moment.
For Aliya, each class is a reflection of life as it unfolds — a space that resonates with the energy of the moment, offering something new every time. Her teaching is intuitive, grounded, and guided by what is truly needed, inviting students to reconnect with themselves in an authentic and meaningful way.
Hanbi H
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Hanbi's yoga journey began in 2017 during her time as a night-shift nurse. Inspired by the otransformative benefits of yoga, she pursued further education, completing her RYT 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2022, followed by her RYT 500-hour certification in 2024.
Alongside her work as a yoga instructor, Hanbi is a family nurse practitioner at a primary care office. She finds deep synergy between her roles, blending the art of healing with the mindfulness of yoga. Hanbi values meaningful connections with her clients and strives to provide thoughtful, precise guidance in every session.
Passionate about all styles of yoga, from dynamic hot vinyasa flows to soothing restorative yin practices. Hanbi considers yoga her best friend, her favorite hobby, and a profound way to connect with others.
Carla R
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Carla Rodriguez is a vibrant yoga instructor who creates a warm, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. Her classes are a soulful blend of movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, designed to help students flow with ease, build strength and reconnect within.
Rush
STRENGTH INSTRUCTOR
With over 12 years of consistent gym training and circuit-based conditioning, Shuaib “Rush” Rushdan is a 27-year-old fitness professional who brings deep experience and energy to both group fitness and one-on-one personal training. Having coached a wide range of clients—from beginners to athletes—he specializes in strength training, functional fitness, and high-intensity circuit programming.
Known for his hands-on approach and motivational coaching style, Rush helps clients break plateaus, build confidence, and stay accountable to their goals. Whether leading a dynamic group class or customizing a private session, he blends science-backed methods with practical results to create sustainable transformations.
Marisa P
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Marisa’s passion for yoga began in her 20’s as a way to practice self-care. Inspired by its incredible benefits and the powerful collective energy she felt while practicing, she decided to deepen her practice by completing her RYT 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2021. Marisa also completed her Pilates Mat Teacher Training in 2023.
When she is not at Sathya on her mat, you can find Marisa spending time with her family, dogs and friends. She also enjoys training for road races, hiking, traveling to new places and trying new restaurants and cuisines.
Tony G
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Hi I’m Tony and my journey to yoga was serendipitous and one of the best things to ever happen to me. As the practice became part of my everyday life, my desire to go deeper led me to become an instructor. Yoga came later, as my foundation was built over nearly 20 years in traditional Chinese martial arts. That discipline continues to shape everything I do, from strength coaching to yoga to the way I guide and lead. I bring a steady balance of power, presence, and purpose to every class. My approach is calm and measured. There is compassion in my presence, and I hold space where challenge becomes transformation and discipline becomes a way to serve and remember the self. I seek alignment, where the physical body and the breath are used to soften everything around us. I focus on helping students build real, lasting functional strength and wellness from the inside out.
If you are looking for the steady bamboo in the storm or, a kind of Sherpa who honors effort, leads with heart, and brings depth via devotion to the mat, I would be honored to practice with you.
Shelly G
SEVA APPRENTICE
Hi, I’m Shelly — sound healer, space holder, and soulful guide. My journey with sound began on a Kundalini yoga retreat in Kauai in 2021, though I like to think it runs in my blood—my mother’s been a sound healer for years. After years of working closely with women as a hairstylist in Atlanta and Buford, I felt a deeper calling to help others reconnect with themselves on a soul level.
With a 200hr yoga certification and training through IIN as a holistic health coach, I combine sound, stillness, and intention to help reset the nervous system and awaken inner healing.
Outside the studio, you’ll find me near water, hiking trails, or curled up on the porch with my two beloved cats, Sadie Mae and Aspen.
Michelle H
SEVA VOLUNTEER
From my first two weeks at SHYW, I felt an instant connection—the inviting atmosphere and warm community drew me in. As an empty nester and recent retiree, becoming a SEVA Volunteer gives me the perfect way to give back, stay connected, and continue growing in my yoga practice.
My happy place is home in Danville, VA, surrounded by family, friends, good food, and laughter. I live by the mantra “Prayer changes things”—because it truly does.
When I’m not on the mat, you’ll find me enjoying NY-style pizza with anchovies or dreaming of my perfect pamper day by the ocean with a glass of Malbec in hand.
Tra W
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Tra is excited to be part of a community that has always made her feel welcomed, and she looks forward to giving back and contributing her energy to that space. Her happy place is her grandmother’s house, where she feels comforted and at home.
She lives by the mantra, “What is meant for me will not pass me,” which keeps her grounded in the present and embracing life as it comes. Tra’s favorite food is hot wings, a fun favorite that never disappoints.
On a completely free day, Tra enjoys a slow morning, delicious food, time outdoors, quality moments with family and friends, and ending the day cozy in pajamas while binge-watching Netflix.
Kelly H
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Kelly is excited to deepen her connections within the Sathya community, which has welcomed her with warmth and kindness. She looks forward to sharing that same energy and care with others. Her happy place is spending time in nature—whether at the beach or in the park—on crisp fall days or sunny summer afternoons.
She lives by the mantra, “I’ve survived my hardest day,” a reminder that even on challenging days, each new morning brings another chance to start fresh. Kelly’s favorite treat is a warm peanut butter cookie.
On a completely free day, Kelly enjoys experiences that nourish her body, mind, and heart. From a calming and meditative class, to brunch with friends, errands with family, and ending the day with ice cream and a cozy show, she treasures days filled with care, connection, and presence.
Arijana H
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Arijana is inspired by the opportunity to cultivate a deeper relationship with herself and a like-minded community. For her, SEVA is a space where wellness is not just practiced, but truly lived—where showing up as your full, evolving self is encouraged. She is passionate about deepening her mind-body connection while contributing her energy, presence, and service to a community that values intention and care.
Her happy place is anywhere she feels grounded and present—especially spaces that invite stillness, like a sauna or yoga room. That sense of peace is amplified when she’s with her daughters, Emma and Hanna, where her heart feels most at home.
Arijana lives by the word “Peace,” guiding her to choose calm over chaos, presence over pressure, and alignment over urgency. Her favorite foods are nourishing, simple meals made with care—especially her mom’s soups and homemade bread.
On a completely free day, Arijana enjoys slowing down with movement, breath, and reflection. She might take a long walk with her daughters, practice yoga, enjoy a sauna, or savor a comforting meal with meaningful conversation—a day fully rooted in presence, connection, and rest.
Mike M
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Mike is excited to deepen his connection with the community surrounding the studio through his work as a SEVA Scholar. His happy place is traveling—especially getting on a plane—with Portugal holding a special place in his heart.
He lives by the mantras “Fearless Lives Forever” and “Forever Young”, embracing courage every day and celebrating the timeless joy of music that has inspired him for decades. When it comes to food, Mexican cuisine is his favorite.
On a completely free day, Mike loves hiking in the North Georgia mountains. His dream day? Exploring any section of the Fisherman’s Trail along Portugal’s southern coast.
Essence W
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Essence is inspired by the chance to serve others in a space that aligns with her personal wellness journey and love for community. Her happy place is at home, where being with family brings her the most joy.
She lives by the guiding principles of clarity and intention, which anchor how she lives, leads, and cares for others without losing herself. Her favorite foods are any variation of a fresh, vibrant salad.
On a completely free day, Essence enjoys spending time alone—working out, savoring her favorite foods, catching up on sleep, and either binge-watching a show or diving into a good book.
Nikeva L
PILATES INSTRUCTOR
Nikeva Lyneé is a Pilates Instructor and 200 Hour certified yoga instructor registered with Yoga Alliance. Nikeva has completed all comprehensive classical Pilates training contact hours with Classical Kulture and continues to participate in numerous Pilates workshops. In addition, Nikeva has certifications in Prenatal Yoga, Postnatal Yoga, Yoga Nidra and Kids Yoga. Her signature yoga class is R&B Soul Flow Yoga with Love. Nikeva’s entire life is built in love, peace and harmony. Her goal for students who grant her the honor of leading them in their Pilates and yoga practices is for those students to achieve love, peace and harmony in their own lives and spread these positive powerful energies throughout the environments they experience.
Evelyn H
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
I am a lifelong student and versatile professional dedicated to the intersection of creative expression and wellness. Whether I’m on my mat, climbing, or out on the mountain bike trails, I am constantly exploring how we can move with more intention. My background in residential therapy and trauma-informed settings informs my approach to holding space, and I am currently pursuing an MA in Arts in Medicine to bridge the gap between artistic practice and health.
As a yoga instructor, I focus on functional health and breath mechanics to build a sustainable practice that supports the work we do in the rest of our lives. My classes are designed to be a bridge between the physical and the reflective, using foundational movement to prepare the body for deeper mindfulness and stillness.
Lisa S
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Lisa brings a warm, welcoming presence to the Sathya Hot Yoga & Wellness community. As a SEVA Scholar, she is most excited about meeting new people and being part of the community that makes the studio feel like home. Her happy place is right here in the studio—moving through a refreshing hot and cold session that leaves her feeling grounded, energized, and reset.
Lisa lives by the mantra “consistency is key”, a reminder she carries into both practice and life, knowing that steady effort leads to lasting growth and success.
Outside the studio, she enjoys simple favorites like a slice of pizza paired with a crisp Diet Coke. On her perfect day off, you’ll find her sharing brunch with her daughter followed by a well-earned shopping spree.
Megan M
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Megan brings an open heart and vibrant energy to the Sathya Hot Yoga & Wellness community. As a SEVA Scholar, she is excited to get to know fellow members and be part of the team that supports and uplifts the studio experience.
Her happy place is the airport—anywhere that signals adventure, connection, and new experiences ahead.
She lives by the mantra, “Never take life for granted, no one is promised tomorrow”, a guiding reminder to take the trip, hug her people tightly, and love fully without regret.
Outside the studio, she gravitates toward fresh, flavorful favorites like sushi and Thai food. On her perfect day off, you’ll find her starting with a run and yoga class, enjoying coffee outside with girlfriends, picnicking in the park with her son, and ending the day with her husband on a patio with live music—finishing the night with a good book before bed.
Yasmin W
SEVA VOLUNTEER
Yasmin is a thoughtful and grounded presence within the Sathya Hot Yoga & Wellness community. As a SEVA Scholar, she is inspired by the opportunity to grow within a space rooted in mindfulness, connection, and service, while deepening her own personal practice.
Her happy place is on a plane headed somewhere new—embracing travel as a chance to meet new people, experience different perspectives, and expand how she sees the world.
She lives by the mantra “alignment over attachment”, a reminder to trust what feels right for her spirit rather than holding on to what no longer serves her.
Outside the studio, she’s a pasta lover in every form. On her ideal day off, you’ll find her starting with yoga, spending time in nature or near the water, enjoying a great meal, and ending the day surrounded by close friends, meaningful conversation, and a sense of calm.
John R
STRENGTH INSTRUCTOR
John has lived in the Atlanta area for the past 44 years and recently retired from AT&T after a 40-year career. In 2024, he earned his NASM Personal Training Certification and is passionate about helping others on their fitness journey to improve longevity, mobility, and independence throughout life.
Sports and fitness have always been a major part of John’s life, including participation in football, baseball, track & field, and golf. He is currently continuing his education and studying to become a certified Golf Fitness Specialist.
Denasia
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Bio coming soon.
Kelly Y
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Bio coming soon.
Jeremy B
BREATHWORK SPECIALIST
Jeremy is a highly experienced respiratory therapist and critical care specialist with a diverse background spanning over 2 decades. He has developed his company RIOR Wellness, utilizing a groundbreaking breathing program that focuses on optimizing the breathing cycle to enhance lung function, lung capacity, and air distribution both at rest and during movement.
Improving these aspects, Jeremy aims to promote overall wellness, including better sleep quality, stress management, anxiety control, emotion regulation, enhance weight loss, work performance, and athletic endurance.
Utilizing meditation techniques, pliability practices, mobility workouts, contrast therapy and basic yoga movements are the foundational approaches of RIOR Wellness.
Let's get stronger together and start your program today with an assessment.
