Waterfast in PachaMama

From ancient traditions to modern scientific research, fasting has long been explored as a practice for rest, reflection, and renewal. By temporarily stepping away from food, the body shifts into a different metabolic state while the mind is invited to slow down and become more present. Beyond the physical experience, many participants describe fasting as an opportunity to gain greater clarity, deepen self-awareness, and reflect on long-standing habits and patterns.

Understanding the Body During a Fast

Throughout the retreat, participants learn about the physiological changes that occur during water fasting, including how the body adapts when food is temporarily absent. Daily talks explore topics such as metabolism, digestion, energy conservation, and the body’s natural restorative processes, helping participants better understand the experience of fasting from both traditional and scientific perspectives.

Exploring Your Relationship with Food

Fasting often brings greater awareness to the emotional, psychological, and habitual aspects of eating. Through guided reflection and group discussions, participants are invited to explore the role food plays in their lives and observe patterns with curiosity and compassion, creating space for new insights and healthier choices.

For more than 25 years, Dao has guided people through the practice of water fasting with care, presence, and extensive experience. His approach combines practical knowledge with a holistic understanding of the connection between body, mind, and lifestyle. Throughout the retreat, he supports participants in exploring fasting safely and mindfully while encouraging them to develop a deeper awareness of their own health and wellbeing.

A Holistic and Supportive Experience

The retreat combines water fasting with educational talks, gentle movement, meditation, and group support to create an environment that encourages rest and self-inquiry. Rather than focusing solely on the physical aspects of fasting, the experience invites participants to reconnect with their body, cultivate mindful awareness, and deepen their understanding of overall wellbeing.

• The evolutionary path of the diet and the digestive system’s capabilities
• The true meaning and impact of gut biome on health
• Understanding cravings and why we often desire foods that are not the best for us
• The role of sugars, proteins, fats, and grains in our diet and their effects on the body and mind
• Ancient and modern perspectives on fasting and its relevance today

The Water Fast is for people who feel called to step away from daily habits and experience a period of rest, simplicity, and self-reflection through a professionally guided fasting process.

This retreat may be a good fit if you:

• Are in generally good health and interested in exploring water fasting in a structured, supportive environment.
• Want to disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with yourself through rest, meditation, and nature.
• Are comfortable with a slower pace and periods of quiet reflection.
• Are willing to follow the retreat guidelines and the guidance of the facilitation team throughout the fast.
• Understand that fasting is a personal experience and that every participant responds differently.

Water fasting is a significant physical practice and is not suitable for everyone.

For your safety, this retreat is not appropriate for people who:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes.
• Have a current or previous eating disorder, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or other restrictive eating disorders.
• Require regular food intake to safely take prescription medications.
• Have significant kidney, liver, or heart disease unless specifically cleared by their healthcare provider.
• Have a medical condition that makes prolonged fasting unsafe.
• Are under 18 years of age.
• Are recovering from recent major surgery or serious illness without medical clearance.

Participation is subject to suitability, and the facilitation team may advise against fasting if they believe it would not be safe for you.