WHAT FASTING CAN CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE
Guest Testimonial from the Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinic
Stefan Rawe is at the start of a new chapter. After many years as a school principal, at 58 he took the time to pause and reorient himself. What comes next is still open, and he sees that as an opportunity. His stay at Buchinger Wilhelmi was a conscious break to breathe again, clear his head, and at the same time get his health back on track.
“My blood pressure readings were catastrophic,” Stefan says openly. Systolic values above 200 mmHg were not unusual for him. For many adults, around 120 mmHg is considered normal. His decision to come to Buchinger Wilhelmi was driven by the wish to regain more control over his health and at the same time create space for an inner reset.
Fasting had been on Stefan’s mind for many years. He had read about it, heard about it, and kept thinking about it. But he did not want to fast at home without professional support, because he did not feel secure enough. What ultimately convinced him was the medical supervision, the clear structure, and the clinic’s holistic concept.
Between doubt and trust
Stefan’s biggest concern before fasting was not physical. “I like to eat. And I eat well,” he says with a smile. The idea of giving up something he enjoys for 16 days made him doubt whether his mind would go along with it.
The surprise was all the greater. After just a few days, the feeling of hunger disappeared. By day 16, he felt he could easily have continued. The weight loss he had hoped for happened, but what mattered more to him were the inner effects: calm, clarity, and measurable improvements in his health. His blood pressure stabilised at much lower levels, sustainably and without additional medication.
Movement, knowledge, and time for the Body
Stefan used his stay very consciously. Daily swimming, guided hikes, massages, and osteopathic treatments ultimately helped him resolve a long-standing neck problem. He only attended the teaching kitchen sessions toward the end of his stay. At first, he worried that the smells and the sight of fresh food might tempt him too much. Yet these workshops became one of his most memorable and instructive experiences. “Understanding why oil is added at the very end, or how ingredients can be combined in a sensible way, was incredibly educational.” Insights he is now taking home with him.
Being alone or feeling bored was a concern Stefan heard quite often from other guests. For him, one thing was clear. Community happens when you are open. Conversations while drinking soup, hikes together, meeting guests from all over the world. “After a day and a half at the latest, you have contact, if you want it.” He found the international atmosphere and cultural exchange particularly enriching. He also felt the accompanying cultural programme, such as readings, concerts, and lectures, was a fitting addition. “The day doesn’t feel long if you make use of these offerings.”
Trust through science
For Stefan, the scientific work is a key factor. As someone with an academic background, taking part in a study was a natural step for him. “Scientific findings guide my decisions.” He sees research on fasting as essential in clearly distinguishing the method from esoteric currents and making its effects understandable and traceable.
“The fact that doctors, nutrition scientists, and researchers work together here creates trust.” For him, that is a major difference and a strong signal.
New habits, new mindset
After his stay, Stefan wants to bring what he experienced into a more conscious everyday life. Less processed meat, more plant-based alternatives, and even more focus on fresh, regional cooking, which his wife already practises.
What comes next professionally is still undecided. Even so, he has become more aware that his mindset has changed. “It has become clearer to me that any path can be a good one.” With this sense of calm, a bit more orientation, and fresh ideas, including for his diet at home, he wants to step into the next chapter.
When asked to describe his experience in just a few words, Stefan answers simply: “A great experience.” And his advice for those who are unsure? “Just try it. Start with a shorter stay, get a feel for it, see what happens.” Sometimes change begins exactly there, with the first step and the willingness to engage.
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