Journey with Me
I’m Mirka Kristiina—author, a certified transformative travel coach, and founder of The Journey Studio. I also write under the pen name Kristiina Bruun. For as long as I can remember, travel has been my way of seeing both the world—and myself—more clearly. Horses have also always been part of my life.
Whether climbing mountains in Peru or navigating a tiny stick-shift Fiat across Spain, I’ve always sought journeys that stretch me—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I’ve lived in the USA, Bangladesh, and Finland—the happiest country in the world, and my deeply rooted source of peace, nature connection, and mindful presence. I’ve also returned to my ancestral roots in Karelia, where I met the new family now living in my grandmother’s former home, and connected with local villagers while delivering aid in Bangladesh. In every place, I’ve arrived with curiosity, connected through humility, and left with a deeper sense of humanity.
Even when traveling for work as a tourism professional, I always carved out time for something intentional: a walk in a local park, a quiet visit to a museum, or a heartfelt conversation with a stranger. These small rituals brought me closer to the place—and to myself. One of the projects I’m most proud of is the Horse stable and Sustainable Tourism Park at the Old Town Fortress— unique initiatives that brings together cultural heritage and modern environmental goals.
But it was a 180-day sabbatical that changed everything.
I stepped away from my career, relationship, and daily routine to recover from burnout and reconnect with my true essence. I had to face and overcome something I hadn’t dared to do before—traveling alone for leisure. That solo journey led me to Machu Picchu, a climb during which I collapsed—but rose again and reached the ancient Inca fortress. There, I breathed freely for the first time in a long while, and encountered a butterfly that landed on my hand and stayed. A quiet, unexpected symbol of stillness and creative rebirth.
Later, I drove solo across Spain. I returned to places I had once known in my spring, now finding strength and a sense of home within myself as autumn approached.
That’s when The Journey Studio was born.
To support this new path, I became a Certified Transformative Travel Coach through The Travel Coach Network (CCE-accredited by the International Coach Federation, USA), blending my background in tourism and experiences as an expatriate with coaching tools that empower personal transformation. I focus on Life Reconnection Coaching through Travel.
Through retreats, 1:1 coaching, journaling, and cultural experiences, I now help others slow down, reflect, and realign. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, reigniting your creativity, or simply seeking space to breathe, I believe that travel—done mindfully—can guide you home. I also offer horse coaching.
Today, I live between Lappeenranta, Finland and Dénia, Spain, continuing to coach, write and create spaces for transformation. I believe that curiosity, courage, and consciousness shape not just how we travel—but how we live and flourish.
Welcome to The Journey Studio. Your next chapter begins here.
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What people say about working with me.
Working with Mirka was a truly empowering experience. Her calm and confident presence helped me feel at ease — not just personally, but also with my horses. I left our sessions feeling grounded, inspired, and more connected to myself.
— Anne-Marie
"Mirka’s energy instilled courage in me. She gave me the confidence to take action."
— JA
What I do now as a Certified Travel Coach – and what transformation really means.
First of all, travel coaches don’t book or plan your travel. That’s for you to do yourself – and it’s one of the most rewarding parts.
My role is to help you understand the deeper reasons behind your travel and make sure your journey truly serves you. I walk beside you before, during, and after your trip to help you:
· Set meaningful intentions
· Choose destinations and activities that align with your needs
· Embark on your first solo journey with confidence
· Recognize your “aha” moments while traveling
· Integrate your learnings into daily life
· Build the courage to make the changes you feel called to make
These moments of realization—especially in new surroundings—are what gently transport you back to yourself. When we dare to listen, pay attention, and become mindful of what we notice, we begin to transform into who our inner selves are calling us to be.
No search engine can do this for you. And if it tries, it’s still not what you’re seeking.
My mission is simple yet powerful: empowering women to reconnect with their true selves by uncovering their inner calling through transformative travel.
When you are ready to go deeper on your journey, I’m here.
My Pillars as a Transformative Travel Coach
Give yourself time and silence—your inner voice knows the way.
Transform through travel: Step out alone to reconnect, rebuild, and rediscover who you are.
Stay conscious—journal your journey: Reflect on your thoughts and feelings with intention. Insight lives in the in-between moments.
Find your true self—and your courage. Travel reveals strength you didn’t know you had.
Understand what brings you joy and begin to shape your life around it.
Let’s connect
Share a few details below, and we’ll be in touch shortly.
We’re excited to hear from you—and to walk alongside you as your next chapter unfolds.