Posted inOn the move

Inside Viva Mayr: Austria’s most rigorous detox retreat

Everything you need to know. From learning how to chew to alkalising your body.
image: Viva Mayr Lake Maria Worth

While the world offers countless options for self–care through retreats and spas, Viva Mayr has long stood out from the rest. In our quest to uncover the secrets that make this health centre exceptional, we delve into everything you need to know. At Viva Mayr, guests embark on a transformative journey of self renewal through an intense master cleanse.

Unlike traditional holidays focused on indulgent meals, Viva Mayr takes a different approach. Their “room service options” provide simple fares like spelt bread (to be chewed 50 times) and clear broths. Days are spent in medical consultations and moments of serene reflection. It’s a departure from the typical spa experience, prompting the question, “Why would you do that?”

Despite initial scepticism, Viva Mayr has solidified its status as the epitome of luxury wellness destinations worldwide. Its reputation has attracted a devoted following, including celebrities like Kate Moss, the Rolling Stones, and esteemed actors and actresses from Bollywood to Hollywood.

So, what makes Viva Mayr undeniably unique?

In an industry valued at $815 billion, filled with numerous health retreats offering various therapy treatments, Viva Mayr offers a more comprehensive approach. For most visitors, its allure lies in the promise of complete physical detoxification, rejuvenation, weight loss, and a radiant complexion. However, their methods have also proven beneficial for patients with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, allergies, and indigestion, leading to long–lasting improvements.

How is it done?

The remarkable benefits of Viva Mayr are achieved through a holistic method cantered around the digestive system, known as the Mayr Cure. This approach originated over a century ago with Austrian physician Dr. Franz Mayr, who recognised the significance of gut health in weight loss and overall well–being.

The Mayr Cure revolves around a thorough examination of one’s diet to identify and eliminate foods that impede digestion. This is crucial because 70 to 80 percent of our immune system resides in our gut. Keeping these organs healthy with a tailored diet is essential for treating health issues.

Since opening their first Viva Mayr clinic in 2005, Dr. Harald and Christine Stossier have modernised and refined this philosophy, incorporating the latest medical discoveries into their therapy. Patients learn the importance of proper chewing techniques, mindful eating, and optimal nutrient absorption timing.

Who is it for?

When patients arrive, they undergo a full medical consultation to address any health concerns. However, the wellness centre is not limited to those with existing issues. According to Christine Stossier, Viva Mayr is for everyone. She explains that just like a car needs occasional maintenance, giving your body a metabolic reset is necessary for rest and regeneration.

What does a day look like at Viva Mayr?

The Mayr Cure is far from effortless, despite its transformative potential. Each day starts early with Epsom salt solutions and liquids to prepare and alkalise the body. To manage hunger, patients also consume a mineral–rich powder regularly, as their diet plans are often restrictive and closely monitored by trained doctors.

The remaining hours are filled with workouts, activities, and rejuvenating massages, all aimed at improving circulation and tailoring the detoxification process to individual body types. In terms of food, every guest receives a personalised alkaline diet plan tailored to enhance immunity and unleash the body’s natural self–healing abilities.

What will you learn?

  • To concentrate on your meal, eat more slowly, and allow digestive enzymes to work their magic. You’ll also discover when your stomach is full and stop eating
  • To limit consumption of raw food after 4 pm. The Viva Mayr diet suggests that raw food is more difficult to digest in the evening
  • How to support your body’s pH level by taking a spoonful of alkaline base powder daily
  • To prioritise self–care and relaxation to enhance daily performance

Does it work?

While it is not recommended to follow this strict diet regime for more than 14 days, patients have reported long–lasting results in their skin that have persisted for months after their visit, thanks to the certain lifestyle changes taught by Viva Mayr.


Follow www.abtraveller.com and @abtravellerme to stay updated on the latest travel news