Want To Live Forever? $2 Million or an Austrian Holiday…

Bryan Johnson has spent an estimated $2 million to date in order to reverse the ageing process. But what if I told you, there are cheaper and less intense ways to keep time at bay, such as a wellness retreat in Austria.

When it comes to wellness holidays, Austria is often associated with luxury spas and five-star resorts. But beyond the high-end retreats, Austria offers a wealth of natural and affordable wellness experiences that tap into the country’s rich traditions of health and longevity. Health and wellness is a huge part of the Austrian Lebensgefuhl and their way of life, it feeds natuarally from their love of the world around them.

Here’s how you can enjoy a rejuvenating wellness holiday in Austria—without breaking the bank.

 

1. Forest Bathing (Waldbaden)

Originating from Japan but deeply rooted in Austrian nature culture, forest bathing (or Waldbaden) is a simple and cost-free way to boost your immune system.

Austria’s vast Alpine forests provide the perfect setting to disconnect from daily stress and immerse yourself in the calming effects of nature. Popular spots include the Salzkammergut region, the forests of Styria, and the tranquil woods of Carinthia.

Being in nature has been shown to enhance cognitive function, boost memory, and stimulate creativity, the perfect remedy for digital fatigue. Natural compounds produced by trees, known as phytoncides, boosts the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, crucial for immune defence. Studies have also demonstrated that spending time in forests can reduce cortisol levels and contributes to longevity.

 

2. Thermal Springs (Therme)

Austria is famous for its thermal waters, rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, and sulphur. Immersion in these thermal baths can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular regeneration, all of which are essential for enhancing longevity.

The warm temperatures of the thermal waters help to open blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body. Additionally, the minerals absorbed through the skin can aid in detoxification and support overall metabolic functions, contributing to a healthier and potentially longer life.

The thermal waters in Bad Gastein emerge from the Hohe Tauern mountains, enriched with minerals and the noble gas radon. When absorbed through the skin and lungs during bathing, radon is believed to stimulate cellular repair mechanisms, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain associated with conditions like arthritis and rheumatism. A highlight of the area is the Felsentherme spa, constructed directly into the natural rock formations. Situated at an elevation of 1,100 meters, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Another gem is the Heiltherme Quellenhotel in Bad Vigaun, where natural thermal waters flow directly into pools open to the public.

 

3. Kneipp Therapy

Kneipp therapy, developed by the Bavarian priest Sebastian Kneipp, is a holistic health practice that involves walking through shallow, cold water, typically in a stone-lined basin or stream, often alternating with warm water exposure. Research suggests that regular cold water exposure can boost metabolism,improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and increase life expectancy.

Austria has many free Kneipp trails and footbaths, often found along scenic walking paths. The Kurpark in Bad Gastein and the Kneipp facilities in Bad Mitterndorf offer refreshing ways to stimulate your body’s natural healing processes.

 

4. Alpine Hay Baths (Heubad)

For a uniquely Austrian wellness experience, try an alpine hay bath (Heubad). Traditionally used by farmers to relieve muscle aches, this natural treatment involves lying in warm, fermenting hay, which releases essential oils and bioactive compounds that ease tension and improve circulation.

This ancient tradition is said to have begun in the Seefeld area near Innsbruck. According local spa operators and hotels, the mountain grass – cut during its blossoming period – contains essential oils and 50 types of medicinal herbs, including lavender, lady’s mantle, thyme, gentian and arnica, all frequently used in medicine and homeopathy.

Some studies suggest that exposure to bioactive plant compounds in hay baths can support immune function and reduce inflammation—both key factors in longevity. Many budget-friendly wellness hotels in the Tyrol and SalzburgerLand offer this treatment at a fraction of the cost of a full spa day.

 

5. Mountain Air

Simply spending time in Austria’s high-altitude regions can have significant health benefits. The crisp, oxygen-rich mountain air has long been recommended for respiratory health and overall vitality.

Studies have shown that high-altitude exposure can increase red blood cell production, improve cardiovascular health, and even activate longevity-related genes.

A mild lack of oxygen [can stimulate cellular stress](Mild hypoxia can stimulate cellular stress responses, including mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy — your body’s way of clearing out damaged cells. This kind of “healthy stress” may help slow aging and support longevity.) responses, including mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy — your body’s way of clearing out damaged cells. This kind of “healthy stress” may help slow aging and support longevity.

Austria is more than 60% of Austria is mountainous, so where better to experience the benefits of high altitude. Many Austrian villages, such as Obertauern, are renowned for their clean, allergen-free air, making them ideal destinations for travellers looking to escape pollution and recharge naturally.

 

6. Local Superfoods

Your Austrian wellness retreat doesn’t need to stop when you are between treatments—meal times can be a an excellent time to feed your body the nutrients it needs and Austrian cuisine is full of natural superfoods that promote longevity. Some of the most beneficial include:

• Pumpkin seed oil: A Styrian specialty packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants, shown to support heart health.
• Elderberry syrup: High in flavonoids that boost immune function and reduce oxidative stress.
• Fermented foods (e.g., sauerkraut, kefir): Rich in probiotics, essential for gut health and longevity.
• Alpine herbal teas: Infused with antioxidant-rich herbs like chamomile and mountain thyme, known to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.

 

Final Thoughts

So as you can see, you have two choices if you want to extend your life, spend millions on longevity treatments like Bryan Johnson or take a holiday to Austria. We know what we would chose...

 

As always, we are happy to assist you with additional information, images, and research trips to Austria. Please get in touch at pressuk@austria.info.

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