Werner Absenger is not just a scientist and expert in mind-body medicine; he's also a trained chef who understands the unique pressures of working in the kitchen. But beyond the stove, his journey through his father's cancer diagnosis and passing gave him a deep sense of purpose that now drives his work. Today, Werner's mission is to help chefs and hospitality professionals manage stress, avoid burnout, and achieve more balanced, fulfilling lives—both in and out of the kitchen.

A Life-Changing Promise

Werner's path to integrative health began with a personal tragedy that forever altered his course. In 1999, his father passed away after a six-year battle with esophageal cancer. As his father underwent treatment in Austria, Werner, living in the United States, struggled to find ways to help out his mom and sisters, dealing with being separated by the Atlantic Ocean.

The frustration of navigating uncharted waters regarding integrative cancer modalities planted the seed for Werner's quest to continue his education. Standing at his father's grave, Werner made a promise: his father's suffering would not be in vain. Those words fueled a new chapter in his life—one in which he committed himself to understanding what scientific research had to say about how holistic approaches to disease, health, and wellness could improve people's lives and decrease suffering.

From Chef to Scientist: A Journey of Purpose

Werner's journey began in the fast-paced kitchens of the culinary world. As a chef, he experienced firsthand the high levels of stress, exhaustion, and mental strain that are all too common in the hospitality industry. He knew there had to be a better way to manage these pressures—one that wouldn't require sacrificing well-being for success.

Determined to honor his father's memory and driven by his passion for food and health, Werner returned to school. He pursued degrees in Human Nutrition and Mind-Body Medicine, studying how to integrate wellness practices into daily life. The decade-long pursuit resulted in a Master's in Human Nutrition, a PhD in Mind-Body Medicine, and brief training at MD Anderson Cancer Center's Integrative Medicine Program, where he explored cutting-edge mind-body medicine techniques. MD Anderson is one of the nation's top cancer research facilities.

Werner's unique blend of culinary experience and scientific rigor makes Werner's approach to human health and wellness so impactful.

Helping Chefs and Hospitality Workers Thrive

Today, Werner works with chefs and hospitality workers struggling with the industry's pressures. His approach goes beyond traditional stress management, incorporating evidence-based practices focusing on mindfulness, nutrition, and optimum performance. His mission is to help those in the kitchen create beautiful dishes and a balanced, healthier lifestyle that can sustain them throughout their careers.

At wernerabsenger.com, Werner provides resources explicitly designed for the culinary community. His goal is to help chefs reduce burnout, manage stress, and achieve a state of zen in their kitchens, careers, and lives. By applying the same scientific principles he once sought to help his father, Werner offers chefs a path to improved health, success, and longevity in their demanding profession.

A Trusted Advocate for Culinary and Hospitality Professionals

Werner's expertise and personal story have made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in wellness for culinary and hospitality professionals incorporating human nutrition and mind-body medicine. He's presented his work at prestigious conferences, including the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, the Center for Consciousness Studies at the University of Arizona, and the Indian Society of Chefs, sharing insights into how the power of the mind can transform health and career.

Whether you're a chef feeling overwhelmed by the grind, a hospitality worker seeking balance, an independent operator, or a nationwide hospitality and food service operation looking for ways to support your team, Werner's approach will guide you toward lasting well-being. His journey—rooted in personal loss and scientific discovery—is a testament to what's possible when we take control of our health and find balance in every aspect of life.

Stay Connected with Werner Absenger

You can join Werner and our community of chefs and hospitality professionals on your journey to health, balance, and success. At wernerabsenger.com you can find support through a free membership, paid monthly, annual, premium, or group memberships with member workshops only, where Werner aims to help you bring a state of zen to your kitchen and your life.