California Yoga, based in Sylvania, Ohio, is receiving widespread attention for its immersive, life-changing yoga retreats curated by owner Kimi Rae Fankhauser. Known for its deeply rooted community spirit and authentic approach to yoga, California Yoga has become a sanctuary for those seeking more than just physical exercise—a place where transformation unfolds through intentional experiences and conscious connection.
Under the leadership of Fankhauser, California Yoga has evolved from a local studio into a hub for global retreats, with its signature destination being the lush coastal region of Nosara, Costa Rica. Fankhauser’s curated retreats are more than vacations—they are purposeful journeys where participants often return feeling emotionally lighter, spiritually expanded, and physically renewed. These offerings are not mass-market retreats; they are designed with intimacy, attention to detail, and personal growth in mind.
Fankhauser has developed a reputation for her ability to create nurturing environments where individuals from all walks of life feel seen and supported. Her dedication to building meaningful connections, both on and off the mat, has helped foster a loyal following. Attendees frequently describe her retreats as “epic” and “the best experience of their lives,” citing the thoughtful planning, safety, and emotional depth of each trip as defining features.
California Yoga is not a replica of the more commercialized wellness models found in larger cities. Instead, it thrives on an ethos of authenticity. The studio attracts a wide demographic—individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience—who come together to form what Fankhauser refers to as a “yoga family.” This inclusive atmosphere has cultivated a sense of belonging that continues to resonate far beyond the physical space of the studio.
Nestled behind Local Roots Juice in the heart of Sylvania, California Yoga is more than its location. It is a sacred space for reflection, healing, and community—a space where ancient yogic practices are honored while making room for modern inclusivity and accessibility. The studio offers a range of classes, from energetic Vinyasa flows to restorative breathwork and meditation, but its retreats have become the cornerstone of its identity.
The Costa Rica retreats stand out as a highlight within California Yoga’s offerings. Each journey is meticulously designed to align with the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of the participants. “I see travel as a catalyst for transformation,” says Fankhauser. “When people step away from their routines, when they feel safe and cared for, something profound opens up inside them. That’s the space I try to hold.”
Fankhauser’s intuitive ability to read the energy of her group allows her to adjust schedules and experiences in real time. Whether guiding a sunrise meditation, organizing a community dinner, or creating moments of solitude, she ensures every detail supports the retreat’s broader purpose—awakening the highest version of each participant.
Many of those who join her retreats are doing so for the first time, while others are seasoned travelers. Regardless of background, the feedback remains consistent: individuals return with more than memories—they return with clarity, vitality, and a renewed connection to self. Fankhauser’s personalized approach, coupled with her deep care for others, distinguishes her as a leader in the field of wellness travel.
California Yoga has been nominated for multiple accolades, including Best Yoga Instructor in the Midwest, Best Yoga Studio in Northwest Ohio, and Best Studio in Ohio. These recognitions align with the feedback from former clients, many of whom claim they’ve never been able to replicate the California Yoga experience elsewhere, even in larger metropolitan areas.
Beyond retreats, California Yoga serves as a community cornerstone. The studio regularly hosts workshops, teacher trainings, and wellness events that emphasize healing, empowerment, and inclusion. From sound therapy sessions to collaborative wellness circles, the studio continues to evolve while staying true to its original mission: to inspire transformation and cultivate inner peace.
California Yoga’s retreats to Costa Rica continue to fill quickly, with two upcoming experiences already drawing interest. These journeys not only offer opportunities for personal transformation but also reinforce the studio’s broader vision—to create a ripple effect of healing that travels far beyond its physical location.
With a grounded presence in Ohio and a growing international influence, Fankhauser has established herself as a visionary in the yoga and wellness space. Through her devotion to people and process, she continues to reimagine what it means to be both a teacher and a guide. “It’s not about perfection,” she says. “It’s about presence. That’s where transformation lives.”
Those interested in experiencing a retreat or learning more about California Yoga’s offerings can explore available programs and information via the official website or social media platforms listed below.
https://www.californiayogastudio.com
https://www.californiayogastudio.com/costarica
Instagram: @caliyogastudio | @kimiraefank
Facebook: California Yoga by Kimi Rae
MindBody: California Yoga on Mindbody
Yelp: California Yoga on Yelp
