California Yoga’s signature Costa Rica retreats, curated by founder Kimi Rae Fankhauser, offer immersive wellness experiences focused on healing and growth.
-- California Yoga Retreats Offer Sanctuary and Global Transformation
Nestled behind Local Roots Juice in Sylvania, Ohio, California Yoga is not just a local studio—it’s a community-driven sanctuary for personal transformation. Founded by retreat curator and yoga instructor Kimi Rae Fankhauser, the studio is known for cultivating authentic connection, inclusivity, and spiritual growth through yoga, meditation, and conscious living.
Photo credit: Magic Photography Kauai
Location: Kauai
While grounded in traditional yogic principles, California Yoga offers a modern, accessible environment that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds. The studio’s mission is to provide more than physical classes—it exists to create a space for self-discovery, healing, and deeper connection.
“Our students always tell us they’ve never found another place quite like this,” said Fankhauser. “There’s something truly unique about the energy here—loving, real, and deeply human.”
The Heart of the Practice: Costa Rica Retreats
At the center of California Yoga’s offerings are its internationally praised retreats to Costa Rica. These curated experiences, led personally by Fankhauser, have become defining milestones for many students seeking personal and spiritual renewal.
Each retreat in Nosara is designed to go beyond the traditional yoga vacation. With a thoughtful combination of yoga practices, sound healing, meditation, and community connection, participants are guided through an immersive journey designed to restore balance and awaken awareness.
What sets these retreats apart is not only the serene tropical setting but the level of detail and intention behind each component. Participants frequently report that they return home changed—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
“People tell me over and over again that this experience shifted something fundamental within them,” said Fankhauser. “That’s what makes it all worth it.”
Curated With Intention, Led With Heart
Known for her intuitive leadership and meticulous planning, Fankhauser’s retreat guidance goes far beyond the role of yoga instructor. Her ability to hold space, foster group connection, and anticipate the needs of participants has been widely recognized.
From transportation to accommodations, meal experiences to group dynamics, every element is shaped to encourage presence, safety, and support.
“Kimi is a gifted curator of travel and transformation,” shared one participant. “She makes you feel seen and held in every moment. It’s rare and powerful.”
Her retreats are open to all levels, making them ideal both for seasoned practitioners and for those experiencing yoga and international travel for the first time. The result is a shared experience that is deeply human and inherently transformative.
Photo credit: Jess Ruetz – Viridian Ivy Images
Location: Nosara, Costa Rica
Date Taken: February 2025
Yoga That Extends Beyond the Mat
While the retreat experience is a cornerstone of the brand, California Yoga’s Sylvania studio remains the foundation of its community. Here, students of all ages, body types, and experience levels gather to practice in an inclusive and supportive environment.
California Yoga offers a range of classes from dynamic Vinyasa flow to restorative movement and breathwork. However, the essence of the studio is not limited to physical practice—it lies in its ability to offer refuge, connection, and space for genuine growth.
It’s not uncommon to see first-time students practicing next to long-time regulars or entire families finding a shared rhythm within a class. “This studio brings people together in the most beautiful ways,” said one community member. “It’s more than yoga—it’s family.”
Beyond Studio Walls: Community and Events
California Yoga has also become known for its community events, workshops, and trainings. These gatherings provide additional opportunities for people to engage in meaningful connection and learn new practices rooted in mindfulness and holistic wellness. We have a 200 RYT teacher trainings starting in May led by two incredible instructors including my daughter in law, Elizabeth Noble and long time friend, Kelsey Northrup and an accredited Sound Healer Training beginning in August led by Toledo’s best and the pioneer of sound in the area, Katya Seymour. Both trainings are recognized by Yoga Alliance.
Whether through local gatherings or global retreats, the studio continues to fulfill its mission: to inspire transformation and extend positive energy beyond its physical space.
The studio environment mirrors the retreat setting in many ways, serving as a place where people can come as they are, let go of life’s pace, and remember what it feels like to be present.
A Journey That Lasts
The impact of California Yoga’s retreats often continues long after the plane ride home. Attendees report renewed focus, enhanced emotional clarity, and a deeper connection to themselves and their values. Many remain in contact with fellow participants and return for future retreats to continue the journey.
“Kimi's retreats aren't just about yoga,” said another participant. “They’re about coming back to yourself. You leave feeling like a better, truer version of who you are.”
This ripple effect is part of California Yoga’s broader vision: that transformation begins within but is meant to be shared. As students integrate what they’ve learned, they bring that presence and peace into their families, workplaces, and communities.
A Studio With Soul
While many studios attempt to replicate the success of California Yoga, few capture its depth and soul. The secret, according to its founder, is the energy of the people who are drawn to the space.
“There’s no formula,” Fankhauser said. “It’s the people. It’s the energy we’ve cultivated together. It’s the shared intention of showing up with open hearts.”
From Costa Rica’s beaches to the studio floors in Ohio, California Yoga offers more than classes and retreats—it offers belonging. The space encourages stillness, strength, vulnerability, and joy.
As the studio continues to evolve, it remains anchored in its founding principle: to hold space for transformation.
About California Yoga
California Yoga is a yoga studio based in Sylvania, Ohio, offering classes rooted in ancient traditions and modern mindfulness. Founded by Kimi Rae Fankhauser, the studio provides a wide range of classes, events, and globally recognized retreats to Costa Rica. Known for its authenticity, inclusivity, and vibrant community, California Yoga has become a hub for healing, growth, and connection.
To learn more, visit California Yoga Studio or explore upcoming retreats at Costa Rica Retreats.
Media Contact
Kimi Rae Fankhauser, Owner & Retreat Leader
California Yoga
Email: info@californiayogastudio.com
Instagram – @caliyogastudio
Instagram – @kimiraefank
Facebook – California Yoga by Kimi Rae
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Contact Info:
Name: Kimi Rae Fankhauser
Email: Send Email
Organization: California Yoga
Website: https://www.californiayogastudio.com/
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