25 June 2025

Sleep and F.X. Mayr-Medicine

Regeneration for Body and Mind

Restful sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. Yet in today’s fast-paced world, many people suffer from sleep disturbances that can significantly impact wellbeing and performance over time.

The Importance of Sleep for Health

As a physician at the MAYRLIFE Medical Health Resort in Altaussee and Medical Director of the MAYRLIFE Day Clinic Vienna, I encounter these sleep-related issues daily—particularly difficulties falling and staying asleep. The modern F.X. Mayr approach, as practiced in Altaussee and Vienna, offers a holistic path to improved sleep quality and overall health.

Sleep is more than a state of rest—it is an active process of physical and mental regeneration. At night, the body undergoes essential repair and regulatory processes: cells renew themselves, the brain processes experiences and consolidates memory, cortisol levels are reduced, and melatonin is released to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. At the same time, the immune system is activated, metabolism is balanced, and the cardiovascular system is given time to recover. Research shows that both sleep deprivation and excessive sleep can increase the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Sleep also plays a key role in maintaining emotional balance and cognitive performance.

MAYRLIFE Health Concept and Sleep

F.X. Mayr Medicine is based on the understanding that many ailments originate in the digestive system. A healthy gut supports the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which is converted into melatonin—the “sleep hormone.” Through targeted measures like rest, cleansing, and retraining of the digestive tract, along with functional medicine (e.g., nutritional supplements), the MAYELIFE Cure demonstrably improves sleep quality.

F.X. Mayr-Diet and Sleep

Diet—especially in the evening—plays a central role. A light dinner, an alkaline vegetable broth, or consciously skipping dinner (“dinner cancelling”) can promote calm and restorative sleep. These principles are a key part of the MAYRLIFE Cuisine and the F.X. Mayr diet.
In contrast, heavy or fatty foods, sugar, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks in the evening can disrupt digestion and lead to sleep problems. Recommended foods include easily digestible vegetables like fennel, zucchini, or carrots, calming herbal teas (e.g., lemon balm or chamomile), and warm water with ginger or lemon balm to soothe the nervous system.

MAYRLIFE-Cure in Altaussee

Special Measures for Better Sleep

At the MAYRLIFE Medical Health Resort in Altaussee, F.X. Mayr Medicine is combined with modern therapeutic methods. Special programs such as “Stress Control” use personalised strategies to enhance sleep quality. Techniques like yoga, Qi Gong, and breathwork—well-established forms of deep relaxation—help prepare both body and mind for restful sleep. In line with the principles of spirito-psycho-somatic medicine—which integrates body, mind, and soul into therapy—meditation also plays a key role as guided meditations are especially helpful for falling asleep. Another simple yet powerful practice is to write down three things you're grateful for each night before going to bed. This gratitude exercise creates a sense of calm and balance, offering the ideal transition into sleep.

The Role of Place: Altaussee as a Sleep Oasis

Altaussee is a “certified air spa village” and its unique microclimate create the perfect conditions for restorative sleep. The fresh mountain air, the natural calm, and the beauty of the Salzkammergut region all help promote inner balance. Particularly notable are the cool nights—even in midsummer—which offer welcome relief compared to the often stifling city air. Many guests report noticeably improved sleep just days into their stay.

Scientific Insights: Sleep, Metabolism, Immunity, and Sports

 Metabolism: Lack of sleep affects genes that regulate metabolic processes—increasing the risk of obesity and diabetes.
 Immune System: During sleep, T-cells activate—critical for immune defence. Sleep deprivation weakens this response.
Sports & Recovery: Deep sleep boosts the release of growth hormones—key for muscle repair and athletic performance.

Conclusion

The combination of F.X. Mayr Medicine and the holistic MAYRLIFE approach—as practised in Altaussee and the Day Clinic in Vienna—offers a powerful way to enhance sleep quality. The integration of nutrition, functional medicine, meditation, stress management, movement, and the natural surroundings supports both sleep and long-term health and wellbeing.

Sources:

AOK Gesundheitsmagazin: Why Sleep Matters, German Heart Foundation: Sleep and Heart Health, Welt.de: Sleep Deprivation Alters Gene Activity, Munich Clinic: Immune System and Sleep.