To tell the whole truth, I have to start by admitting that, over the past couple of years (somehow sneakily), I managed to put on quite a few extra kilos. To my surprise, by last autumn, that number had climbed to a full +10 kg. No matter how many times I stepped on the scale, shook it, or recalibrated it, the stubborn truth remained—79 kg. Given my height of 176 cm, my BMI was far from ideal.
Both the mirror and my wardrobe confirmed my suspicions. All those beautiful dresses now hung there, taunting me, no longer fitting the way they used to. I cursed everything—my age, my sweet tooth, and my cortisol levels. Determined to get to the bottom of this, I went for a comprehensive health check-up. The results were sobering: my weight gain wasn’t just a bad dream, it was a harsh reality. On top of that, tests revealed an overload of heavy metals in my body—cadmium, mercury, aluminum, and barium. A serious detox was in order.
That’s when I remembered Pro Em San, a probiotic supplement I had tested for our Peeglijutud podcast (which I co-host with Anu Saagim) on the Delfi platform. This supplement had been sent to us by Loodus BIOSPA, a natural healing and wellness center. Intrigued, I did some research and discovered that this place offers professional detox, rejuvenation, and weight-loss programs under the care of top Nordic specialists. Even more excitingly, they follow the world-renowned F.X. Mayr method.
This information was like a bright beacon of hope in my dark frustration. I knew instantly—I had to go.
One small detail: I had never done a fasting retreat before. My longest detox attempt had lasted a mere two days. Nevertheless, I signed up for a 5-day detox fasting program, booked my spot, and soon found myself in the Estonian countryside, in Muri village, Tartu County, filled with excitement and high hopes. I deliberately planned the retreat for early December, hoping that a proper cleanse would help me resist the temptations of Christmas and New Year’s feasting.
Upon arrival, I was struck by the serene beauty of the BIOSPA complex, surrounded by lush green landscapes reminiscent of an old manor park, complete with ponds, little bridges, and charming garden pavilions. At check-in, I was directed to the third floor, where instead of a standard room, I found myself in a spacious suite with breathtaking views, round fairytale-like windows, and a lovely balcony.
Day 1: The Beginning of the Cleanse
The very first thing on my schedule was a consultation with the nurse. I poured my heart out, sharing my concerns. Listening attentively and taking notes, she suggested that instead of a simple detox, I go for a 5-day therapeutic fasting program. I agreed immediately. After discussing additional treatments I could opt for, I was whisked off for a massage, the perfect way to ease into spa mode.
At 3:00 PM, all participants gathered for an introductory session where we were walked through the entire fasting process. It turned out I was the only first-timer—everyone else was a regular, coming here once or twice a year to cleanse and recharge.
Later that evening, we were given Epsom salt packets, which we had to dissolve in water and drink—this helps clear out the intestines and prepares the body for the days ahead. The spa facilities were also open, so I treated myself to a relaxing sauna and pool session.
Speaking of saunas—I fell in love! Every single day, I made sure to sweat it out and take a few laps in the pool.
One thing I had dreaded was the colonic irrigation—but the staff handled it so professionally that, before I knew it, it was over. To my surprise, I didn’t feel hungry at all throughout the day, and despite my worries, I slept like a baby. I had been convinced that a rumbling stomach would keep me up all night, but I was out cold. Good thing I had set my alarm, or I might have overslept on Day 2!
Day 2: The Detox Deepens
7:00 AM – Colonic irrigation. Getting used to the routine now!
8:00 AM – Morning exercise outdoors, breathing exercises, and a short walk—all incredibly refreshing and beneficial.
9:00 AM – Nurse’s check-in and health assessment.
9:50 AM – Kneipp hydrotherapy (felt like stepping into Mehed Ei Nuta!).
10:30 AM – Detox therapy.
11:30 AM – CO2 dry bath—a fascinating treatment!
1:00 PM – Massage by Vigen, a master at his craft.
5:30 PM – Gentle yoga. Fortunately, the poses were manageable!
8:00 PM – Colon hydrotherapy, the treatment I feared the most. By the evening, I developed a mild headache, which I had expected. The body was flushing out toxins, and my caffeine withdrawal wasn’t helping—I’m a hopeless coffee addict. But again, the staff were fantastic, and the procedure was over before I knew it.
The major advantage of colon hydrotherapy over traditional enemas is that it cleanses the entire large intestine. I had read that undigested food residues can linger in the colon for years, releasing harmful bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream. No wonder fasting is such a powerful reset!
Day 3: The Body Starts to Renew
Woke up refreshed! Despite initial sluggishness in the first two days, I now felt a clear boost in energy.
One of the highlights was my session with osteopath Maarika Sill, one of Estonia’s best specialists. This was a game-changer—she worked wonders on my shoulder pain, and I left the session feeling incredibly light.
Later, I had an Indian head massage (Champi)—absolutely divine! I highly recommend it for anyone with tension in their shoulders and neck.
Water aerobics that evening was another fun and surprisingly easy workout.
Day 4: Lightness and Energy
I was starting to feel like a completely new person. Energy levels were soaring, and my mind was clearer than it had been in ages.
One of the best treatments that day was the Bishofit magnesium chloride bath, known for relieving muscle tension. Afterward, I had lymphatic drainage therapy, where I was zipped into a special pressurized suit that stimulated circulation—super effective and relaxing.
I also attended a lecture by Aire Kängsepp on detox and rejuvenation—such an eye-opener!
Day 5: A New Me!
I didn’t want to skip my final morning exercise in the crisp air, even though I could have slept in. It had become a ritual I genuinely enjoyed.
The last check-in with the nurse came with a big reveal—I had lost 4 kg! 🎉
And the best part? I felt fantastic. My skin was glowing, my face looked more sculpted, and all the usual puffiness had vanished.
Breaking my fast with a simple broth felt like the most delicious meal I had ever eaten.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never experienced therapeutic fasting, I wholeheartedly recommend it (as long as you don’t have medical contraindications). It’s a total reset—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
For me, fasting is now officially part of my beauty and wellness routine. See you at the next cleanse!
Reet Härmat