Dr. Dawn Branham

Expert in Lifelong Learning, Ancient Wisdom, and Global Perspectives

Life isn’t just about getting through the days—it’s about evolving, awakening, and remembering the magic that has always lived within and around you. With a PhD in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education and an emphasis on global wisdom traditions, I’ve spent my life studying how people grow, transform, and connect across cultures.

Today, I weave that academic foundation with ancient systems like astrology, astrocartography, yoga nidra, and ritual—bringing timeless practices into modern life in ways that feel accessible, inspiring, and deeply relevant. My work is about helping you feel more connected, more awake, and more aligned with who you truly are.

My Story

Person doing yoga pose at Machu Picchu, with mountain and ruins in background.
A woman in an orange jacket stands behind a Cape Point sign with coordinates in South Africa.
Woman meditating on a beach at sunset, wearing a floral shawl and seated cross-legged.

I’ve always been drawn to the crossroads of adventure, personal growth, and spiritual exploration. From road-tripping across the U.S. and backpacking through Europe to living and teaching in Japan and studying abroad in South Africa, exploration has been my greatest teacher. My love of culture and learning led me to work in study abroad and international exchange at The University of Michigan and Michigan State University, teach English to immigrants in Detroit and Las Vegas, and even lead a women’s retreat in Taos, New Mexico.

In 2018, I earned my PhD in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, planning to return to the world of international education. But after years of striving in academia, I found myself burned out and craving something deeper, more soul-aligned. A transformative trip to Peru cracked me open and awakened a new path—one rooted not only in learning but in wisdom, rest, and reconnection. That experience led me to yoga teacher training, Yoga Nidra certification, and eventually, Transformational Travel Design.

Then astrology re-entered my life—and it was like remembering a language I had always known. What began as curiosity turned into a calling. And when I discovered astrocartography, the thread between travel and the stars, everything clicked into place. I began weaving astrology into my work, and I watched people awaken, reconnect, and realign in ways that were both practical and magical.

Now my work is no longer about travel alone, or astrology alone—but about helping midlife women remember who they are, reconnect with their magic, and step into life with renewed excitement and authenticity. I bring together the practices that shaped me—astrology, astrocartography, yoga nidra, ritual, writing, and travel—to create experiences that are as expansive as they are grounding.

At the heart of it all is this belief: every journey, whether inward or outward, is a chance to come home to yourself.

THE GLOBAL DAWN OFFERINGS:

  • Astrocartography Readings

    Uncover your personalized map of the world to find ideal locations for your life, love, career, and more. Together, we’ll explore the power of place, and discover where your best self can thrive. Whether you’re relocating, planning travel, or seeking clarity on past experiences, your astrocartography reading will give you a new perspective on what’s possible.

  • Cosmic Travel Coaching

    A journey crafted just for you and support every step of the way. Using your astrocartography chart, we’ll plan the perfect trip together that meets you right where you are and takes you where you want to go next

  • Transformational Retreats

    Journey back to yourself. Designed and led by me, in collaboration with expert teachers, intuitive guides, and local healers, these retreats are a deep dive into self-discovery, renewal, and connection.