Annual calendar of activities and events
To give you a clear picture of what’s going on at Buchinger Wilhelmi all year round, we have put together an annual calendar of activities and events, sorted by subject.
2025 – At a glance
September
- 07. – 21.09.2025 • Semaines Francophones
- 07. – 14.09.2025 • Be better – Live better
- 27.09. – 04.10.2025 • Art Week All about Colours
- 27.09. – 04.10.2025 • Yoga Week
- 29.09. – 04.10.2025 • Creativity Week
October
12. – 19.10.2025 • Holistic health: The key to a fulfilled life
November
- 02. – 16.11.2025 • Semaines Francophones
- 17. – 21.11.2025 • Theatre Workshop
- 24. – 28.11.2025 • Mindfulness Meditation Week
December
- 01. – 06.12.2025 • The Longevity Science Week
- 08. – 13.12.2025 • Yoga Transformation Retreat
- 20. – 27.12.2025 • Art Week: Celestial Inspiration
- 28.12.2025 – 04.01.2026 • Ikigai Writing Workshop
2026 – At a glance
January
05.– 11.01.2026 • Seminar: Release. Align. Proceed.
February
- 02. – 07.02.2026 • Yoga Transformation Retreat
- 15. – 20.02.2026 • Meditation during lent
- 22.02.– 07.03.2026 • Semaines Francophones
March
- 16. – 20.03.2026 • Mindfulness Meditation Week
- 29.03. – 05.04.2026 • Art Week: Growing Plants
May
- 11. – 16.05.2026 • Happiness Week
- 18. – 24.05.2026 • Seminar: Sunshine, Strengths and Upward Spirals
July
- 12. – 19.07.2026 • Art Week: Summer Lights
August
- 17. – 21. August 2026: Mindfulness Meditation Week
September
- 13. – 26.09.2026 • Semaines Francophones
- 27.09. – 04.10.2026 • Art Week: All about colours
October
- 19.– 24.10.2026 • The Longevity Science Week
November
- 01. – 15.11.2026 • Semaines Francophones
- 16. – 20.11.2026 • Mindfulness Meditation Week
December
- 20.–27.12.2026 • Art Week: Celestial Inspiration
*All events are free of charge as part of our Buchinger Wilhelmi program.
Semaines Francophones
This year, our French-speaking guests will again be able to enjoy the Semaines Francophones. The events offered by our main speakers and the evening programme as well as several other activities in the course of the day will be held in French.

Dates 2025
07. – 21. September 2025
with Dr. Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo
Theme: The six pillars of peaceful longevity
02. – 16. November 2025
with Dr Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo
Theme: The six pillars of peaceful longevity
07. - 21.09.2025 : More infos
Avec Dr. Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo
et Dr Robin Mesnage
Les six piliers d’une longévité sereine
L’humain n’est pas un ordinateur qui fonctionne 24h sur 24, 7 jours par semaine sans pauses et sans états d’âme pour autant qu’on lui fournisse une profusion de gigabytes. L’humain fonctionne en cycles, il/ elle doit récupérer, dormir, jeûner, méditer pour rester en bonne santé et aimer la vie.
Les 6 pilliers de son équilibre sont la nutrition et le jeûne, l’activité et le sommeil, un environnement libre de contaminants à l’extérieur, comme à l’intérieur de l’habitat et, ce qui porte le tout, l’équilibre émotionnel, le fitness spirituel et l’engagement.
Au cours de ces semaines francophones, nous aborderons, ces piliers de façon interactive et instructive.
Vendredi 12 septembre à 19h30 au studio Larix :
« Les six piliers d’une longévité sereine: focus sur les rythmes circadiens et circannuels. »
Mardi 16 septembre à 19h30 au studio Larix:
«Les six piliers: Loin des contaminants, proche de la nature, retour à l’équilibre émotionnel et au fitness spirituel».
Mercredi 17 septembre à 19h30 au studio Larix:
« Les six piliers : à l’extérieur et à l’intérieur, pas de contaminantes ». Dr Robin Mesnage
Dre Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo, née à Genève (Suisse) en 1953, est la senior scientific advisor du département de recherche qu’elle a créé chez Buchinger Wilhelmi en 2010 et dirigé jusqu’en 2024. Elle est, avec la nouvelle génération de directeurs, responsable du concept médical des deux cliniques (Überlingen et Marbella). Pour mieux transmettre l’entreprise Buchinger Wilhelmi à la génération de ses fils, elle a fait un master en «enterpreneurship for Family business » en 2013. Après des études de médecine à Genève et une thèse de doctorat à Bâle, elle fonde avec des collègues en 1986 l’Association Médicale Jeûne et Nutrition. Depuis de longues années, Dre Wilhelmi de Toledo œuvre pour développer et documenter scientifiquement le jeûne dans ses dimensions médicale, spirituelle et communautaire.
Avec son équipe, elle a développé des coopérations internationales avec d’autres cliniques, universités et instituts (Charité à Berlin, CNRS de Strasbourg et Lyon / St Etienne, ETH Zürich, partenariat avec des chercheurs de Milan,Paris, Thessaly, Los Angeles, Genève) et publié de nombreuses études scientifiques. Elle est également la présidente de la Maria Buchinger Foundation fondée pour soutenir la recherche dans le domaine du jeûne thérapeutique. Elle est àuteure de l’ouvrage paru en cinq langues, « L’art de jeûner », C’est à 18 ans qu’elle découvre le jeûne par et le pratique tous les ans. Depuis plus de 40 ans, elle accompagne la retraite de jeûne organisée annuellement au sein de la Communauté Œcuménique de Grandchamp, en Suisse. Dre Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo est considérée aujourd’hui comme l’une des grandes expertes du jeûne au niveau international.
Le Dr Robin Mesnage est directeur scientifique des cliniques Buchinger Wilhelmi. Il travaille également au département de nutrition du King’s College de Londres, où il mène des recherches sur le rôle du microbiome intestinal. Conférencier très demandé, il donne régulièrement des conférences. Ses travaux de recherche ont donné lieu à la publication de plus de 100 articles scientifiques, cités plus de 10 000 fois. Grâce à ses travaux sur les effets de la pollution sur la santé, il fait partie du 1 % des scientifiques les plus cités au monde.
02. - 16.11.2025 : More infos
Avec Dr. Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo
et Dr Robin Mesnage
Les six piliers d’une longévité sereine
L’humain n’est pas un ordinateur qui fonctionne 24h sur 24, 7 jours par semaine sans pauses et sans états d’âme pour autant qu’on lui fournisse une profusion de gigabytes. L’humain fonctionne en cycles, il/ elle doit récupérer, dormir, jeûner, méditer pour rester en bonne santé et aimer la vie.
Les 6 pilliers de son équilibre sont la nutrition et le jeûne, l’activité et le sommeil, un environnement libre de contaminants à l’extérieur, comme à l’intérieur de l’habitat et, ce qui porte le tout, l’équilibre émotionnel, le fitness spirituel et l’engagement.
Au cours de ces semaines francophones, nous aborderons, ces piliers de façon interactive et instructive.
Lundi 03 novembre à 19h30 au studio Larix :
«Les six piliers d’une longévité sereine»
Jeudi 06 novembre à 19h30 au pavillon:
«Les six piliers : dormir et bouger».
Lundi 10 novembre à 19h30 au studio Larix:
« Les six piliers : manger et jeûner ».
Mardi 11 novembre à 19h30 au studio Larix:
« Les six piliers : à l’extérieur et à l’intérieur, pas de contaminantes ». Dr Robin Mesnage
Les 6 piliers: à l’extérieur et à l’intérieur, pas de contaminants
Mercredi 12 novembre à 19h30 au studio Larix:
« Les six piliers : équilibre émotionnel, fitness spirituel, engagement I ».
Jeudi 16 novembre à 19h30 au pavillon:
«Les six piliers: équilibre émotionnel, fitness spirituel, engagement II ».
Dre Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo, née à Genève (Suisse) en 1953, est la senior scientific advisor du département de recherche qu’elle a créé chez Buchinger Wilhelmi en 2010 et dirigé jusqu’en 2024. Elle est, avec la nouvelle génération de directeurs, responsable du concept médical des deux cliniques (Überlingen et Marbella). Pour mieux transmettre l’entreprise Buchinger Wilhelmi à la génération de ses fils, elle a fait un master en «enterpreneurship for Family business » en 2013. Après des études de médecine à Genève et une thèse de doctorat à Bâle, elle fonde avec des collègues en 1986 l’Association Médicale Jeûne et Nutrition. Depuis de longues années, Dre Wilhelmi de Toledo œuvre pour développer et documenter scientifiquement le jeûne dans ses dimensions médicale, spirituelle et communautaire.
Avec son équipe, elle a développé des coopérations internationales avec d’autres cliniques, universités et instituts (Charité à Berlin, CNRS de Strasbourg et Lyon / St Etienne, ETH Zürich, partenariat avec des chercheurs de Milan,Paris, Thessaly, Los Angeles, Genève) et publié de nombreuses études scientifiques. Elle est également la présidente de la Maria Buchinger Foundation fondée pour soutenir la recherche dans le domaine du jeûne thérapeutique. Elle est àuteure de l’ouvrage paru en cinq langues, « L’art de jeûner », C’est à 18 ans qu’elle découvre le jeûne par et le pratique tous les ans. Depuis plus de 40 ans, elle accompagne la retraite de jeûne organisée annuellement au sein de la Communauté Œcuménique de Grandchamp, en Suisse. Dre Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo est considérée aujourd’hui comme l’une des grandes expertes du jeûne au niveau international.
Le Dr Robin Mesnage est directeur scientifique des cliniques Buchinger Wilhelmi. Il travaille également au département de nutrition du King’s College de Londres, où il mène des recherches sur le rôle du microbiome intestinal. Conférencier très demandé, il donne régulièrement des conférences . Ses travaux de recherche ont donné lieu à la publication de plus de 100 articles scientifiques, cités plus de 10 000 fois. Grâce à ses travaux sur les effets de la pollution sur la santé, il fait partie du 1 % des scientifiques les plus cités au monde.
Language
French
Dates 2026
22. February – 07. March 2026 with Jean & Blandine Montagard
13. – 26. September 2026 with Dr. Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo
01. – 15. November 2026 with Dr. Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo
Be better – Live better
with Gaëlle Dehaze*
Discover sophrology, the science of happiness. By training your body and mind, you will develop serenity and well-being.
Dates
07. – 14.09.2025
More information
Let us learn together how to reduce tension in our personal and/or professional lives and to recognise and accept with gratitude the things that give us positive emotions.
Let us optimise our confidence in the future.
Strengthening our inner life will lead us to greater well-being and thus to a better life.
The lectures, which are accompanied by a tailored exercise in each session, are structured so that you can make progress every day by addressing six topics: well-being and stress, breathing and serenity, eliminating tension, somatisation of the positive, positive attitude towards the future and positive memories of the past.
Languages
French
Art Weeks
with Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger*
Get creative at the Buchinger Wilhelmi Art Weeks! This is a unique opportunity to work in the art atelier under the guidance of independent artists Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger.
Four times a year, the Art Weeks offer guests at our clinic the chance to develop their artistic skills in an inspiring environment. The atelier is open for three hours a day during this time and has everything you need to explore your creative side at your own pace.
Dates
27 September – 04 October 2025: All about colours
20 – 27 December 2025: Celestial Inspiration
29 March – 05 April 2026: Growing Plants
12 – 19 July 2026: Summer Lights
27 September – 04 October 2026: All about colours
20 – 27 Decemeber 2026: Celestial Inspiration
27 September - 04 October 2025: All about colours
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of colors and discover how colors affect us not only on canvas, but also within ourselves. Led by artists Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger, you can look forward to a creative week filled with colors, pigments, and experimentation with various painting and drawing techniques.
In keeping with the philosophy of Buchinger fasting, which renews the body through fasting, Art Week also offers a profound spiritual experience. In this creative space, you will have the opportunity to rediscover yourself, free your mind, and draw inspiration from the colors and shapes that emerge on canvas or paper in the studio.
Give your creativity new space and let the power of colors take you on a journey of renewal and inspiration.
The studio is open 7 days a week for 3 hours each day.
The art instructors are Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger.
20 - 27 December 2025: Celestial Inspiration
In the special atmosphere of the Christmas season, we offer you the chance to take a spiritual and creative time out. Our “Celestial Inspirations” Art Week is ideal for anyone looking for inner calm, magic and new inspiration during this contemplative period. Look up at the skies and discover the beauty and secrets of the nighttime landscape, the blue hour and the celestial wonders. Be inspired by nature and the history of art, and find new perspectives for your creative journey.
Under the supervision of artists Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger, you can look forward to a week filled with experimenting and experiencing art. Explore the world of experimental printing, work with monotypes and discover new forms of expression through painting and drawing.
This Art Week gives you space for personal development and inner reflection and the opportunity to create your own art projects.
Experience a magical time of creative fulfilment and inner renewal – a journey to the stars that will enhance your art and lift your spirit.
The atelier is open for 3 hours a day over 7 days.
The art instructors are Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger
29. March - 05. April 2026: Growing Plants
The topic of this springtime Art Week is “Growing Plants”, symbolising the natural processes in art, nature and the body. Inspired by the beauty and diversity of the shapes, colours and structures of plants and flowers, we will explore the world of creative inspiration.
You will learn to create unique images using techniques such as acrylic, gouache and oil painting, drawing with pastels, charcoal and ink, and experimenting with plants and printing inks. Layers of colour, textures and overlays give rise to an organic, intuitive creative process that is constantly changing and evolving. As we capture the plants’ growth, we also reflect on our own inner transformation.
The combination of working creatively on you own and together with the group allows you to grow and progress artistically – similar to the inner processes of renewal of our mind and body that we experience when fasting. Just like nature, humans also undergo different phases of life. We experience this process particularly intensively during fasting: it gives the body the chance to regenerate, sharpens the senses and opens the mind to new inspirations.
The atelier is open for 3 hours a day over 7 days.
The art instructors are Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger
12 - 19 July 2026: Summer Lights
Art Week “Summer Lights”
Our summer Art Week is dedicated to the inspiring concept of “Summer Lights” – a chance to immerse yourself in a world filled with colours, light and summer vibes. The focus of this week-long workshop is on the magic of light that reflects the splendour of summer. Participants can experiment with different media and bring their creative visions to life in the form of painting, drawing and collage.
“Summer Lights” is more than just a theme; it is an invitation to capture the warm, golden light moments of summer. Participants are encouraged to experiment with light and shade and express the vibrant colours of summer in their work. In the same way as fasting heightens the senses, the workshop is an opportunity to focus on the subtle details of light and shade and discover the nuances of summer that are often overlooked.
Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger will guide you through the week, share their knowledge and ensure that it fills you with new ideas and inspiration. The workshop gives you space for personal development and creative experimentation, so by the end of the week, you will have produced a collection of impressive images that reflect the special atmosphere of summer.
The atelier is open for 3 hours a day over 7 days.
The art instructors are Joanna Klakla and Ursula Erchinger
Further information
The focus is on experimenting with different techniques and materials. The aim of the Art Weeks is to discover and foster your own personal artistic expression. Let yourself be guided by the artists’ inspiring ideas and develop your own creative works in a supportive and open atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in the world of art. Your creative journey begins here!
Buchinger Wilhelmi has a well-equipped atelier with a wide choice of materials for painting, drawing, modelling and printing. Outside of the Art Weeks, it is open twice a week for creative work and offers an inspiring environment to develop your own artistic ideas. Like fasting, doing art helps the mind and body to regenerate. It heightens the senses and opens the mind for inspiration and creative development. Let the unique combination of art and therapy inspire you!
INSTRUCTORS
The atelier is run by Joanna Klakla, an experienced artist and teacher. She studied art and art education at the University of National Education Commission in Krakow, Poland, and now lives and works as an independent artist and art teacher on Lake Constance. Her techniques include painting, woodcuts and collage. Under her guidance you will develop your creative skills and learn new techniques.
The second instructor at our atelier is Ursula Erchinger, an independent artist with a studio in Überlingen. She completed an academic degree in art and education and her work focuses on painting and drawing.
Use this unique opportunity to start your artistic journey in a professional and supportive environment!
Languages
German, English, French
Jivamukti Yoga Week
with Stephanie Cunico*
When Stephanie discovered yoga 12 years ago, she realised that it was a life-changing practice. In 2018, she began teaching her colleagues before leaving the fashion world to devote herself entirely to yoga.
She explored various methods and decided to specialise in Jivamukti Yoga (800 hours), followed by additional training in Trauma-Informed Yoga. Since 2020, she has been teaching at Jivamukti Yoga Paris as well as other Parisian studios, private classes and corporate courses. She is passionate about sharing the beauty of the practice with anyone who is curious to discover it for themselves.
Dates
27.09. – 04.10.2025
Languages
English
Creativity week
with Yaron Herman*
2 masterclasses and 1 concert
The masterclasses are a unique opportunity to think and discuss with the world renowned jazz pianist. Are we all creative? And if so, how to discover and develop on’s creative potential? Yaron Herman will explore the strategies for cultivating a creative practice, and will answer any questions you may have.
Yaron Herman will also offer an evening of creativity in action through a concert of piano improvisations.
Dates
29.09. – 04.10.2025
More information
French-Israeli Yaron Herman began playing the piano at the age of sixteen, after having set his sights on a career as a basketball player. In 2008, he won the Victoire de la Musique award in the ‘Jazz Revelation of the Year’ category. With nine albums to his name, he performs on the biggest stages from Tokyo to Hamburg, and also gives lectures on the creative process.
‘Creativity is not reserved for a chosen few. Nor is it a talent; it’s a habit, an attitude, a way of being that can be learned and cultivated. Creativity reveals the treasures that lie dormant within us. The fields of creativity are infinite and often unsuspected!
Languages
English
Holistic health: The key to a fulfilled life
The course will be led by Dr. Lisa Green and the team at Buchinger Wilhelmi*
Enjoy a week dedicated to holistic health, with inspiring talks and hands-on seminars to restore harmony to your body, mind and soul.
Our Holistic Health Week is ideal for anyone who wants to learn more about living a healthier, fuller and more conscious life.
Date
12. – 19.10.2025
More information
Physical health
Rediscover your body’s strength
In this session we will look at basic physical needs such as exercise, nutrition, sleep and regeneration. Our teams will be giving courses on the subject and practical tips. A special highlight is a medically substantiated talk about the correlation between “stress” as a psychological factor, and physical health, focusing on how you can deal with your body’s physical and psychological reactions to stress.
Social health
Connectedness and respectful communication
Social health means living in a society characterised by mutual support, respect and appreciation. During your stay, you will have plenty of opportunities to experience various social needs within our Buchinger Wilhelmi community, such as the need to belong, to connect, be recognised and develop relationships. Courses on mindful communication, empathy and non-violent interaction will strengthen your capacity to forge healthy relationships with others and yourself.
Psycho-emotional health
Inner stability and emotional intelligence
This session is about our emotional world, with a focus on the need for self-determination, security, integrity and inner coherence. Talks on topics such as self-worth, resilience, coping strategies, belief systems and mindfulness will create space for reflection and growth.
Spiritual health & purpose of life
Wisdom, healing and finding meaning
In an increasingly complex world, we have an ever-greater need for guidance, wisdom and inner meaning. In this session we will explore spiritual needs such as the desire for healing, communion, religion, transcendency and a higher meaning of life. Whether through meditation, silence, rituals or inspiring talks, you will find space to connect with your inner self and discover your own answers to the questions of life.
Join us!
This Holistic Health Week is an invitation to pause, refocus and experience health at all levels – an effective, authentic and meaningful route to a better quality of life.
Languages
German & English
Theatre Workshop
with Irina Brook*
A lifetime of work with actors and non-actors has shown me that simple theatre warm-ups and exercises can have incredibly positive benefits for people of all ages. I look forward to sharing my passion for theatre with you. I truly believe that a week of fun and games can encourage sensitivity and openness, and help overcome some of the barriers and inhibitions that stand between us.
There is nothing to fear! Join me on a journey of self-discovery and let’s play together! Everyone is welcome, especially those who consider them-selves to be shy and think that they are not suited to drama.
Dress code: comfortable clothing and barefoot.
Date
17. – 21. November 2025
More information
Irina Brook is an internationally acclaimed opera and theatre director known for her bold and innovative productions. Her work in opera has garnered attention at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, with recent highlights including her return to the Wiener Staatsoper for Don Pasquale and to Teatro alla Scala for La Rondine. She is set to make her Japanese opera debut with Carmen at the Tokyo Nikikai Opera.
Brook’s opera career began with a successful debut directing Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte for the Nederlandse Reisopera. She has since directed a diverse range of operatic works including Tchaikovsky’s Yevgeny Onegin at the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence, Rossini’s La Cenerentola at Théâtre des Champs-Elysées and Teatro Comunale di Bologna, and Verdi’s La traviata at Opéra de Lille and Teatro Comunale di Bologna. Other notable productions include Handel’s Giulio Cesare at Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore at Deutsche Oper, and Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Wiener Staatsoper. Her work at Teatro alla Scala includes Die Sieben Todsünden & Mahagonny-Songspiel and Il matrimonio segreto.
Born in Paris, Irina Brook grew up immersed in the arts, as the daughter of director Peter Brook and actress Natasha Parry. She moved to New York at 16 to study acting with Stella Adler, making her stage debut in Off-Broadway productions before transitioning to directing. Her breakthrough as a director came in London in 1996 with Beast on the Moon, followed by several successful productions including Mrs Klein and All’s Well that Ends Well. Her French adaptation of Beast on the Moon, Une Bête sur la Lune, received critical acclaim and won five Molière Awards, including Best Director and Best Play.
In 2003, she founded Irina’s Dream Theatre in Paris, through which she has toured globally with productions like Brecht’s Der gute Mensch von Sezuan, Marivaux’s L’Île des Esclaves, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Her work at major festivals includes the Salzburg Festival, Barbican Centre, Spoleto Festival, and her acclaimed production The Island Trilogy, which toured internationally.
From 2014 to 2021, Brook served as the Director of the Théâtre National de Nice, where she continued to push artistic boundaries. In 2021, she was appointed Artist-in-Residence at Teatro Stabile del Veneto, where she premiered The House of Us, an interdisciplinary installation based on Hamlet. She was also named Artist-in-Residence at Château d’Hardelot’s Elizabethan Globe Theatre in 2023.
Brook’s contributions to theatre and opera have earned her numerous accolades, including the Chevalier and Officier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and most recently, in 2023, the Commandeur de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Language
English
Mindfulness Meditation Week
with Lharampa Tenzin Kalden*
Lharampa Tenzin Kalden is a Buddhist monk and meditation instructor who teaches traditional mindfulness meditation methods and Tibetan Lu Jong yoga. Learn how to bring more mindfulness into your life and thoughts. Mindfulness meditation promotes mental harmony and physical health.
Dates
24. – 28. November 2025
16. – 20. March 2026
17. – 21. August 2026
16. – 20. November 2026
More information
Practising mindfulness plays a central role in Buddhism. Being mindful means being in the present moment. According to Buddhist teachings, we are conscious of our emotions, thoughts and actions in the here and now. At every moment, our mind is alert and knows what impact our actions will have on others and on the environment. Mindfulness is considered a clear, neutral spirit that does not judge or appraise.
There are four aspects to mindfulness: mindfulness of one’s own body, one’s feelings, thoughts and actions. Those who practice mindfulness are aware at all times of samsara, the repetitive everlasting cycle of habit, and live their lives for the good of all sentient beings.
Mindfulness Meditation Week is run by Tenzin Kalden, who was born in Tibet and grew up in Europe. He became a monk at the age of 11 and studied at the Sera Monastic University in South India for 17 years, where he graduated in the five great sciences of Buddhism. He was awarded the title of Rabjampa and achieved the highest scholastic title of Lharampa. For 14 years, Lharampa Tenzin Kalden has organized training courses in Buddhist philosophy and psyschology, as well as meditation retreats in Europe.
Content of the mindfulness seminar:
- Meditation and Tibetan Lu Jong yoga for the five elements
- Mindfulness meditation and walking meditation
- Buddhist psychology for more harmony and health
- Healing mantras and chakra cleansing exercises derived from Tibetan Buddhism
- Meditation and exercises against stress and burnout
- Lecture: “Dealing with sorrowful emotions using exercises for mindfulness meditation”
- Lecture: “Buddhist philosophy as a basis for meditation”
- Lecture: “The therapeutic benefits of buddhist tantra
Languages
German, English
The Longevity Science Week
with the Buchinger Wilhelmi Science team*
Join us for an enlightening Science Week dedicated to the theme of “Therapeutic Fasting and the Microbiome.” Discover the profound connection between therapeutic fasting and the microbiome, the community of trillions of microorganisms living in and on our bodies.
At Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinic, our expertise in therapeutic fasting stands out due to our commitment to scientific validation and evidence-based outcomes. We are the ONLY place that validates, tests and amplifies their own product scientifically and hence can almost guarantee certain outcomes. Our scientific team wants to share this with you by a series of engaging lectures, hands-on workshops, and interactive discussions with world-renowned experts in nutrition, fasting, and microbiome research.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn about the latest scientific advancements, explore personalized fasting protocols, and understand the pivotal role of the microbiome in health and disease. You will even be able to have the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of scientific research by cultivating the microbes that live on their skin.
Dates
01. – 06.12.2025
15. – 20.06.2026
19. – 24.10.2026
More information
Planned programme schedule:
01.12. 20h evening lecture: The mysteries of the gut microbiome.
Our digestive tract is home to an incredible number of bacteria. The latest scientific findings about this microbial world are currently revolutionising medicine and opening up new therapeutic possibilities. / Dr Robin Mesnage
02.12., 9:30h – 10h The scientific department will be opened for visit. Members of the science team will be welcoming you to answer your questions and explain you their work in the realisation of scientific studies.
02.12., 10h – 12h Microbial art workshop – Join us for a unique microbiome art workshop where science meets creativity. Using real microscope images as inspiration, explore the vibrant ecosystem of the gut microbiome through collage and watercolor techniques. Let’s transform the unseen world within us into stunning visual art!
03.12., Workshop: How We Make DNA Visible
05.06. Lecture: FastForward for a better understanding of the crucial period following a fast. The new research study ongoing in our clinic aims to study how to improve the food reintroduction and help our patients adopting a healthy lifestyle after fasting. Practical tips for a better blood sugar control and mindful eating will be offered. / Marie Knufinke
06.12. 17h evening lecture: Recent scientific discoveries about this microbial world is revolutionising medicine and is opening the way to new therapeutic possibilities and Scientific research at the Buchinger Wilhelmi clinics. An overview of the major achievements of the scientific department to document the safety and therapeutic effects of the Buchinger Wilhelmi.
About the facilitator
Dr. Robin Mesnage is the Scientific Director of the Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinics, where he leads research studies to scientifically document the effects of fasting and to integrate cutting-edge diagnostics into the therapeutic journey of patients. He also works in the Department of Nutrition at King’s College London, where he holds a research fellow position to investigate the role of the gut microbiome in the health benefits of plant foods. Additionally, he is a keynote speaker, regularly offering lectures on scientific topics, and has served as an expert on the regulation of human health effects of chemical pollutants for the French government and occasionally for the European Parliament. His research has resulted in the publication of over 100 scientific articles, cited more than 8,000 times. He is among the top 1 percent of cited scientists worldwide for his work on the health effects of pollution.
Language
English
Yoga transformation retreat
with Gilbert Grimeau*
Experience the transformative power of yoga at Buchinger Wilhelmi!
The beginning of the year offers a good opportunity to reorganise your intuition and potential and to get new impulses for the spring. This intense yoga transformation retreat is your opportunity to do so.
Learn various meditation techniques and breathing exercises, explore your body awareness during yoga classes, and open up new horizons through mantra chanting and much more. It doesn’t matter how much yoga experience you have, as you can find your own intensity through the different levels.
We at Buchinger Wilhelmi want to offer you this particularly protected space for your retreat, your spiritual development, and your transformation. Fasting during the retreat can support you in your transformation, but is not mandatory.
Date
08. – 13. December 2025
02. – 07. February 2026
More information
*Gilbert Grimeau is a yoga and meditation instructor. He has practised yoga for more than 22 years as a life philosophy. Gilbert started training as a yoga instructor in the Sivananda tradition 16 years ago. Following this, he completed further courses in modern styles like Anusara, Yin and Vinyasa yoga. His courses are designed to be integral, incorporating elements from various yoga styles. He learned and experienced meditation in various ashrams in Germany, India and South America. He is currently deepening his knowledge by training to become a yoga therapist.
Since 2021 he has been an Inspiration Coach at Buchinger Wilhelmi, where he offers our guests various meditation and yoga classes, breathing therapy classes and therapeutic dancing.
The following classes are planned:
Daily
7:30–8:10 a.m.: Pranayama – Peace Chanting
8:15–8:50 a.m.: Meditation
9:00–10:15 a.m.: Yoga Level I
10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: Yoga Level II
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday:
5:15-6:30 p.m.: Yoga therapy (digestive system, heart, respiratory system, musculoskeletal system)
Saturday afternoon:
5:15-6.00 p.m.: Dance It Off (Embark on a journey through the elements and move intuitively to inspiring music. Without judgement, you develop your own, individual dance and activate your self-healing powers.)
Wednsday, Thursday, Saturday evening:
7:30-8:30 p.m.: Mantra yin yoga / Mantra meditation / Mantra with sound
Language
English
“Ikigai” writing workshop
with Dr. Dorothée Gommen-Hingst*
“Ikigai” is a concept rooted in Japanese culture. It broadly refers to something that brings joy, a purpose in life and fulfilment. In this workshop, we will explore this idea of finding meaning by offering some creative inspiration for your writing, with a focus on six important aspects of human existence: health, occupation, relationships, spirituality, finances and leisure time.
The period between Christmas and New Year is an ideal time to examine your own inner compass, reflect on it in writing, and set the course for the year ahead.
As well as the time spent in our writing workshop, there will be opportunities for meditation and conversations in small groups. Whether you are a beginner or already have some experience, join us to discuss key issues in your life, put them into words, and define your own viewpoint – all in a safe environment. The aim of the workshop is to connect in a loving way with yourself and others in joy and serenity, to recognise and accept yourself, and to find words to express this.
Date
28 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Programme Schedule
Sunday, 28 December 2025, 4 pm (45 min.) GERMAN and ENGLISH
The healing power of words
An inspiring introduction to our “Ikigai” writing workshop with some initial ideas and moments of creative inspiration
Monday, 29 December, 2 groups à 75 min. GERMAN or ENGLISH
The healing power of words
“Ikigai” writing workshop on the topic of “Health”
Tuesday, 30 December, 2 groups à 75 min. GERMAN or ENGLISH
The healing power of words
“Ikigai” writing workshop on the topic of “Occupation”
Wednesday, 31 December, 2 groups à 75 min. GERMAN or ENGLISH
The healing power of words
“Ikigai” writing workshop on the topic of “Relationships”
Thursday, 1 January, 2 groups à 75 min. GERMAN or ENGLISH
The healing power of words
“Ikigai” writing workshop on the topic of “Spirituality”
Friday, 2 January, 2 groups à 75 min. GERMAN or ENGLISH
The healing power of words
“Ikigai” writing workshop on the topic of “Finances”
Saturday, 3 January, 2 groups à 75 min. GERMAN or ENGLISH
The healing power of words
“Ikigai” writing workshop on the topic of “Leisure time”
Thursday, 1 January 2026
Literary matinee accompanied on the piano (60 min.)
Erich Kästner (1899-1974): “The thirteen months”
Saturday, 3 January 2026
Literary soiree accompanied on the piano (60 min.)
“Everyone can perform magic, everyone can reach his goals, if he is able to think, if he is able to wait, if he is able to fast.” – Excerpt from the novel “Siddhartha” by Hermann Hesse (1877-1962)
About the lecturer
About your instructor: Dr. Dorothée Gommen-Hingst is an author, publisher, writing coach and qigong trainer who is passionate about what she does. She teaches various courses, for example at the “Akademie am Meer” on the island of Sylt, as well as offering writing retreats and workshops on the wonderful world of words (https://seeundsterne.de). She has won several literature contests and set up her own publishing company in spring 2025 (https://weesterloenverlag.de). Dr. Dorothée Gommen-Hingst lives with her husband and three sons in Westerland on Sylt and in Aumühle near Hamburg. But where she really feels at home is in nature, and wherever people come together.
Language
German & English
Release. Align. Proceed.
A programme for more meaning and purpose in life.
with Saskia Fehr*
As the New Year rises on the horizon and the festive Christmas lights fade, it’s the perfect time to turn inward, release the old and embrace the new. This program accompanies you on a journey of discovery into what gives your life meaning and purpose.
Date
05. – 11. January 2026
More information
With support from Positive Psychology, you will explore the topic of meaning and purpose in life and identify what is most important to you in life. Let go of what no longer serves you and devote the energy and resources you have gained to what lies ahead. Through interactive exercises and in exchange with the group, you will gradually create your meaningful life.
About the facilitator
Saskia Fehr is a Positive Psychologist and Coach. With her passion for a good life, she integrates insights from the science of wellbeing with approaches from coaching, methods from body psychotherapy and teaching from various wisdom traditions in her practice as Coach and Trainer for Individuals and Organisations. In addition to her practice, she teaches Positive Psychology in a Master’s program and is pursuing a PhD in human flourishing and spiritual awakening. Personally, she considers herself a Dhamma student and practitioner of Vipassana Meditation and Hatha Yoga.
The following sessions are planned:
Introduction to the Programme
Introduction to Positive Psychology and the topic of meaning and purpose in life.
Letting go of what no longer serves you.
Detaching ourselves with gratitude from the things that no longer serve our growth and development – guided meditation and reflection closed by a fire ceremony.
Your sources of meaning in life.
Everyone perceives different things as particularly meaningful in life. We want to identify these sources of meaningfulness together. Please bring your phone.
Core Values.
Everyone has a personal value system that underpins perception, action and identity. We want to clarify those core values together.
The Good Life.
Wellbeing and the good life ultimately lie in the subjective judgment of the individual. This session is about your personal idea of the best possible existence.
Vision
Through a guided visualization exercise, we will create a strong vision of a meaningful life and design our own visual aid: Your vision board.
Intention.
At the end of the week, we will reflect on what we have developed for ourselves and create a plan for how we can integrate our insights into our lives in a sustainable way.
Also
Evening: Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercise (TRE®).
A series of physical exercises aimed at releasing the tension in the body caused by stress and trauma through a natural neurogenic trembling process. – max. 12 participants.
Language
English
Meditation during lent
with Jesuit and Zen Master Niklaus Brantschen & Dr. Françoise Wilhelmi de Toledo*
During Lent, learn how to meditate from the renowned Jesuit and Zen master Niklaus Brantschen.
Date
15. – 20. February 2026
Language
German & English
Happiness Week
with Florence Servan-Schreiber*
Florence Servan-Schreiber is an author who lives and works in Paris. She holds workshops and lectures on positive psychology and the science of happiness. Learn how to craft your own happiness and mobilise your own “superpowers”!
Date
11. – 16. May 2026
Language
English & French
Sunshine, Strengths and Upward Spirals
with Saskia Fehr*
An empowering programme for more emotional wellbeing.
Through dynamic and interactive exercises, facilitated discussions, guided meditations and the supportive embrace of our group, you will embark on an exploration of your unique character strengths. Uncover the inherent gifts that empower you, and identify practical strategies to leverage them in your daily life, fostering a sustainable sense of well-being and flow.
Date
18. – 24. May 2026
More information
With the help of Positive Psychology Interventions targeting forgiveness, gratitude, savouring and optimism we will lay the foundation for your sustained wellbeing. By cultivating a regular practice of experiencing positive emotions, we initiate a powerful upward spiral of well-being that extends far beyond your time at Buchinger Wilhelmi.
Also: Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercise (TRE®).
A series of physical exercises aimed at releasing the tension in the body caused by stress and trauma through a natural neurogenic trembling process. – max. 12 participants
About the facilitator
Saskia Fehr is a Positive Psychologist and Coach. With her passion for a good life, she integrates insights from the science of wellbeing with approaches from coaching, methods from body psychotherapy and teaching from various wisdom traditions in her practice as Coach and Trainer for Individuals and Organisations. In addition to her practice, she teaches Positive Psychology in a Master’s program and is pursuing a PhD in human flourishing and spiritual awakening. Personally, she considers herself a Dhamma student and practices Vipassana Meditation and Hatha Yoga.
Language
German & English
*All events are free of charge as part of our Buchinger Wilhelmi program.