Find calm in simplicity
What does this retreat really give you?
This is not a week to simply get away and then return to the same life.This retreat is a reset: you come closer to yourself and take that with you into your daily life.You experience stillness in your mind and relaxation in your body. Your nervous system settles, and you reconnect with what you truly need — not by thinking or analyzing, but by simply being. Without stimulation, without expectations, without pressure.During this week, you discover:
- how restlessness shows up for you
- that restlessness is not a problem, but a guide
- how to make choices from clarity instead of pressure
- that being content with yourself is not a goal, but an experience
What will you experience this week?
You stay in the heart of Finnish nature, far away from noise and expectations. In this simplicity, space opens to feel what is alive within you.You begin to notice:- how quickly you fall into patterns of “I have to”
- how challenging — and liberating — it can be to have nothing you must do
- what becomes visible when you stop trying to fix things
- daily Zen meditation
- yin yoga and experiential practices
- silence and simple rituals
- time together and time alone in nature
- working with your hands in the garden
Do you feel a “yes,” but still have questions?
Guided by Kaia
Kaia is the founder of Olemine (“to be being” in Estonian) and works as a zen teacher, yin-yoga instructor, and coach in Arnhem. Her roots lie in Estonia, where she frequently returns for the nature.
With her calm presence, she guides people who long for more peace, less pressure, and genuine attention for body and mind.In this retreat she leads the daily zen meditation, yin yoga, reflection practices, and silence guidance. Her approach is practical, down-to-earth, and attuned to nature: no fuss — simply being present with what is.
More information about Kaia can be found at: www.olemine.nl, or read here what people experience in Kaia’s guidance.
What matters to me is that you feel at ease throughout this retreat week. This sense of ease is supported not only by me, but also by the pure Finnish nature, the small group, and the spaciousness of silence. From this foundation, we explore together what wants to be seen.
This journey usually begins with slowing down and allowing ourselves to pause with our restlessness. Throughout this process, simplicity forms the guiding thread. Through daily Zen meditation, yin yoga, walks in nature, and working with your hands outdoors, we gently train our attention — returning again and again, in a simple way, to what we are experiencing in the present moment.
In this retreat, “doing” does not mean more, but rather less. Being still — both literally and figuratively — not moving, and keeping your attention with yourself helps you see more clearly what truly moves you and which direction genuinely matters. Less naturally becomes more — but a different kind of more.
With these insights and this growing awareness, you return home with a greater sense of spaciousness and direction, able to meet your daily life with more clarity and trust. The daily Zen meditation practice you become familiar with during the week can continue to support you, helping these insights deepen over time.
You are most welcome!
- True rest (no busy program to keep up with)
No tight schedule, no full days. It is the space between the activities that allows deep relaxation and insights to arise. You are free to follow what you need — silence, movement, or simply nothing at all. - Attentive guidance
You are supported by daily zenmeditation, yin yoga, and moments of reflection, guided with care and experience. No “quick fixes,” but a sustainable landing in your body. - Doing without pressure
For a few hours each day, you take part in simple tasks such as chopping wood or gardening. This has a surprisingly grounding effect: you step out of your head and experience a sense of fulfillment without performance pressure. - Living in a natural rhythm
Wood-fired sauna and hot tub, swimming in the sea, falling asleep to the sound of wind and birds. Your body naturally re-attunes to daylight, movement, and rest. - Nourishing food
Simple meals, as local as possible, often enjoyed in silence. Not just to eat, but to truly taste and be present with your experience. - Small-scale and safe
The retreat is limited to a small group of no more than 12 participants, creating a calm and supportive atmosphere with room for personal attention and the freedom to simply be yourself, without social pressure.
- Stillness in your mind and more inner spaciousness
- insight into how restlessness works for you (and that you can be with it)
- a growing ability to make more conscious choices
- a simple daily meditation practice you can continue on your own
- a deeper sense of contentment with yourself
- clarity about what truly matters to you — and what does not
- a more deeply rooted, embodied trust in life
Many participants experience this week as a turning point — not dramatic or spectacular, but subtle and lasting.
You don’t go home “changed,” but more as yourself.
The “Back to Basics Retreat Finland” takes place on the following dates:
- Sunday 7 June to Saturday 13 June 2026
- Sunday 28 June to Saturday 4 July 2026
This is midsummer in Finland – the perfect time to enjoy:
- Long summer days with plenty of daylight
- Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
- Nature at its best: forests, sea, lakes, and vast wilderness
During the “Back to Basics Retreat Finland”, you will stay in simple yet comfortable Finnish cabins and eco-lodges. You may also bring your own tent. There is space for a maximum of 12 participants.
Privacy & comfort
- Everyone has their own private room, although in some cases you may share a cabin with one or two other participants
- You can indicate your preferences when registering
- We take personal wishes and needs into account as much as possible
Below is an example of the program:
07:00 – 08:00
Morning meditation
(1–2 sessions of approx. 25 minutes)
08:00 – 09:00
Breakfast buffet — eaten in silence
09:00 – 12:30
Introduction / talk, exercises, dialogue, and short zazen (zen meditation) sessions
12:30 – 13:30
Lunch buffet — eaten in silence
13:30 – 14:00
Break / rest
14:00 – 16:00
Meditation in action — mindful work (samu)
Examples: garden work or a silent reflection walk
16:00 – 18:00
Free time / swimming / sauna & hot tub
18:00 – 18:30
Dinner
18:30 – 20:00
Free time / sauna & hot tub
20:00 – 21:00
Yin yoga
21:00 – 21:45
Evening meditation
(2 × 20 minutes — indoors or outdoors)
21:45 – 22:30
Silent campfire (optional)
The program may vary slightly from day to day — depending on the weather, the rhythm of the group, and the season.
There may be a full day of silence to deepen the experience.
Arrival and departure days follow an adjusted schedule.
The “Back to Basics Retreat Finland” is a small-scale, cost-sharing retreat. The price includes accommodation, all meals, use of the sauna and hot tub, guidance, and participation in all activities (yoga, meditation, samu work, and walks).
EARLY BIRD – BOOK & SAVE!
Enjoy 20% off when you book your spot for the Back to Basics Retreat now.
Be quick — availability is limited!
- Single room (private room with shared bathroom):
€1,390→ €1,100 - Double room (shared room with shared bathroom):
€1,190→ €950
The early bird offer is valid until March 1, 2026.
It is also possible to bring your own tent. Please get in touch with us beforehand so we can coordinate what is possible.
Payment
- Deposit: €300 upon reservation to confirm your place
- Remaining balance: due no later than 8 weeks before departure
Included
- 7 nights in an eco-lodge
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (locally sourced and freshly prepared)
- Guided yoga and meditation sessions
- Samu work (mindful work in the garden or on the land)
- Use of a wood-fired sauna and hot tub
- All materials for activities
Not included
- Flight or train to Finland
- Transfers to/from the lodge (carpooling or a shared transfer may be possible)
- Travel and cancellation insurance
The “Back to Basics Retreat Finland” takes place in an eco-lodge in the heart of the Finnish wilderness, about a 2-hour drive from Helsinki.
Travel options
- Group travel from Turku: comfortable shared transfer to the lodge
- Own transport: you can come by car or combine the retreat with a road trip through Finland
This way, you can choose to travel fully organized, or combine your journey with a personal adventure through the beautiful Finnish landscape.
During the “Back to Basics Retreat Finland”, there are a few practical points to keep in mind:
Photos & video
- Images and videos may be taken during the retreat.
- Anyone who does not wish to be filmed can indicate this beforehand.
- Recording will always be announced in advance.
Offline moments
- You can choose to be intentionally screen-free to fully relax. We highly recommend it — you may also hand in your phone.
- Moments of silence and nature immersion are an integral part of the program.
Dietary preferences
- We collect information on allergies and preferences in advance.
- This allows us to adapt meals and facilitate mindful eating.
Cancellation by Participant
Your participation in the retreat is confirmed once you have registered via the registration form and received a confirmation email from us.
You may cancel your booking at any time by notifying us in writing. The following conditions apply:
- Cancellation more than 60 days before the start date:
Your deposit will not be refunded, but any additional payments you have made will be fully reimbursed. - Cancellation less than 60 days before the start date:
You are required to pay 100% of the booking price (including the deposit).
Cancellation or Changes by the Organizer
If the retreat cannot take place — for example, due to unforeseen circumstances, weather conditions, or insufficient registrations — the full amount paid for the retreat will be refunded.
We will also, if possible, offer an alternative date or edition.
Travel and Cancellation Insurance
We strongly recommend that you take out travel and cancellation insurance that also covers the costs of flights, cancellations, or changes. Please note: the organizer does not cover costs for flights, transportation, or other travel arrangements if your participation is canceled or you cancel yourself. Take this into account when booking your trip.
Own Responsibility
Participation is entirely at your own risk. The organizer is not liable for travel, health, weather, or other personal circumstances, nor for costs incurred due to cancellation or participation.
1. What is the Back to Basics Retreat?
A week where you return to the essentials. You live simply, close to nature, with plenty of silence, reflection, and hands-on work. Each day combines gentle yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, and samu work (such as gardening, cooking, or chopping wood).
2. Who is this retreat for?
For anyone seeking peace, simplicity, and connection with nature and themselves. No experience with yoga or meditation is required — everything is guided gently.
3. How big is the group?
A maximum of 12 participants. This keeps the atmosphere personal, comfortable, and balanced between togetherness and personal space.
4. What does a typical day look like?
- Morning: meditation, talk, reflection exercises
- Breakfast in silence
- Samu work: gardening, chopping wood, or cooking
- Lunch and free time
- Afternoon walk or relaxation by the sea or in nature
- Evening: sauna, hot tub, yoga, meditation, and campfire
5. What do I pay for myself, and what is included?
- Self-paid: flight or train to Finland, transport to/from the lodge, and personal expenses
- Included: accommodation, all meals, sauna/hot tub, yoga and meditation sessions, guidance, and use of materials
6. Can I participate alone or with someone?
Both options are possible. Many participants come alone, but the small scale makes it easy to feel comfortable quickly.
7. What if I don’t want to join an activity?
The group program forms the foundation of the retreat, and all participants are invited to join. Optional elements are completely voluntary — you can always choose rest, a walk, or simply enjoy the silence.
8. What about sleeping arrangements and accommodation?
You stay in an eco-lodge or Finnish cabins with shared bathrooms. You may also bring your own tent or camper.
9. Are dietary preferences taken into account?
Yes. We consider allergies or dietary preferences provided in advance. Cooking together and mindful eating are an important part of the experience.
10. How do I get to the lodge?
You travel independently to Finland. From there, you can carpool or use a shared transfer from Turku or Helsinki. Further details will be provided upon registration confirmation.
11. Is the retreat suitable for injuries or health limitations?
Yes, all activities can be adapted. Please inform us in advance so we can accommodate your situation.
12. Is there internet or mobile coverage?
Limited. There is some coverage, but we encourage offline moments so you can fully disconnect from daily distractions.
13. Will photos or videos be taken?
Yes, we may capture atmosphere shots for the website or social media. If you do not wish to be photographed or filmed, you can indicate this upon arrival — we always respect your preference.
14. What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is subject to the general terms and conditions (see Payment & Terms).
You may also let someone else participate in your place, provided this is arranged in advance.
