This past June, the serene Krappala Farmhouse in Finland played host to Keskikesän Joogapäivät, a midsummer yoga retreat filled with connection, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Set just 16 kilometers from my own childhood home, this retreat offered not only a chance to celebrate the midsummer season but also a delightful reunion with familiar ties.

A Unique Setting: Krappala Farmhouse

Krappala Farmhouse is a charming, traditional Finnish homestead with rich history and character. The property consists of two main buildings: the farmhouse and the animal house, both featuring attics that add to their rustic charm. For this retreat, the animal house attic was transformed into the yoga shala, a cozy space that perfectly accommodated the 12 participants. With wooden beams and large windows inviting natural light, the yoga shala provided a warm and peaceful ambiance for daily practice.

The farmhouse itself offered accommodations for a select group of guests. Eight of the 12 participants chose to stay overnight in the yoga shala’s attic, enjoying its unique, communal vibe. Meanwhile, the downstairs bedrooms housed a couple and two single participants, adding a touch of privacy to the cozy experience.

The Hosts : Mari and Cecilia

The retreat was hosted by Mari, whose personal connection to me added a special layer of nostalgia to the event. As the daughter of my former high school P.E. teacher, Mari brought her passion for delicious food and a welcoming energy that made every participant feel at home. Her daughter Cecilia supported Mari in the kitchen and acted as the quiet angelic help at the yoga shala and by heating up the wooden sauna. Mari and Cecilia`s lovely and warm personalities made the retreat an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

A Midsummer Haven

The natural surroundings of Krappala Farmhouse elevated the retreat to something truly magical. A gentle river flowed beside the property, offering soothing swimming and sauna experience. This complemented the afternoon  meditative yin yoga sessions. The farmhouse’s proximity to a beautiful forest allowed participants to explore nature walks and connect with the serene midsummer landscape of Finland.

Yoga and Connection

The yoga shala in the animal house attic was the heart of the retreat. Over the course of the weekend, I led a variety of yoga practices, from invigorating morning flows that focused on hormonal balance and detoxing to restorative yin and sound healing in the evening sessions. The intimate space fostered a sense of closeness among the 12 participants, turning strangers into friends by the end of the retreat.  

Beyond yoga, the retreat included mindfulness exercises, meditation sessions, and time to unwind in the farmhouse’s peaceful surroundings. Participants bonded over wholesome meals and shared stories, creating a strong sense of community.

A Cozy Stay

Staying overnight at Krappala Farmhouse was a highlight for many. The eight participants who chose to sleep in the yoga shala attic described it as a unique experience, combining rustic charm with the camaraderie of shared space with no walls. Those staying downstairs enjoyed the comfort of the farmhouse’s traditional bedrooms, where the gentle sounds of nature lulled them to sleep.

Reflections on the Retreat

Keskikesän Joogapäivät 2024 was more than just a yoga retreat—it was a celebration of midsummer, nature, and community. For me, the experience was deeply personal, connecting me to my roots and offering a chance to reconnect with familiar faces in a setting that felt like home. I have had the pleasure of knowing many of the participants from before, some from my previous retreats in Finland.

Krappala Farmhouse, with its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and the warm hospitality provided the perfect backdrop for a truly transformative experience. As the river flowed and the forest whispered its secrets, this little corner of Finland became a sanctuary of peace and rejuvenation for everyone who attended.

Looking Ahead

With its intimate setting and heartwarming atmosphere, Keskikesän Joogapäivät is bound to become a cherished annual tradition. If you’re seeking a retreat in Finland that combines yoga, nature, and genuine connection, Krappala Farmhouse is a destination worth exploring.

Mark your calendars for next midsummer—you won’t want to miss it. 🌿