Get to Know OHI Missionary, Barbara Hochmann

Ten years ago Barbara Hochmann was surfing online, looking for ideas to lead a healthier life.  She wanted to find an approach to managing stress that she could rely on for the rest of her life.

“I came across OHI online, and I immediately connected with their approach,” said Barbara.  “I stayed at OHI Austin for 3 weeks.  I was flabbergasted to realize how often I used food and cigarettes to numb myself from stress.  But the more I faced my emotions, the more negativity I released, and the more room I now had to embrace joy.  At the end of my 3-week stay, I was completely changed.  I had shed 20 pounds of inflammation and emotion.  My skin went from grey to rosy, and my eyes were clear.  I felt strong enough emotionally to commit to continuing the juicing and raw diet for the next 9 months at home.  OHI connections were always just a phone call away if I needed help.  The bottom line is I stuck to it because OHI’s program gave me a clear path forward.  I chose to LIVE, and now I can honestly say that life just keeps getting better every day.”

Of course, it wasn’t just the diet that helped Barbara.  She immediately connected with the OHI curriculum as well.  “I was so energized by OHI’s classes,” said Barbara.  “I went to every class I could.  The information is delivered in a way that’s easy to absorb and utilize in every day life.”

So when did the missionary program factor into Barbara’s life plan?  “I have come back to OHI for a week or two tune-up almost every year for the last 9 years,” said Barbara.  “OHI has truly given me back my life, so I decided I wanted to be an OHI missionary to pay it forward.  I applied to OHI San Diego just as the pandemic hit, and started my 3-month missionary placement in the middle of June.  I had huge expectations going into it, but I can honestly say this experience has far exceeded every expectation I could have ever had.  During my time as missionary, there were up to 30 guests on campus at a time.  It was a very intimate experience, full of vulnerability, connection, and depth.  I am so grateful for the unique experience.  I am certain my spiritual practice has deepened because of the small cohort size.  During my past annual visits, my focus was on my physical body and my intellectual mind.  But my extended 3-month stay as a missionary gave me time to focus on my spirituality.  My concentration has improved immensely, and my meditation practice is so much more rewarding for it.”

While Barbara has experienced all of the OHI classes multiple times, she does have a few favorites.  “From a science perspective, the Elimination and Digestion classes are absolutely fascinating to me,” said Barbara.  “But on a personal level, I am constantly working to improve my communication so that what I share with the world accurately reflects who I want to be.  The Alpha Meditation and Communication classes are amazing.  I get something new out of each class every time I take them.  Now I know I’m worth all the time and effort I put in to healing myself which has lead me to a life that is so rewarding and fulfilling.”

What is Barbara’s advice for others considering a stay at OHI?  “Don’t put off your life another minute,” said Barbara.  “After coming to OHI, I navigate life in an entirely different way.  I see everything from a new point of view.  Life is beautiful!”

The OHI missionary program is a volunteer extension program for those who have graduated from the OHI holistic healing program and desire to continue on a spiritual path to heal themselves and others. As a missionary, you are able to immerse yourself in the healing process 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We encourage all who have a calling, passion, and commitment to serving others and who want to be in a community focused on healing to apply.
During your visit, our caring team can help you achieve your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual goals for optimal health. Visit our website at www.optimumhealth.org, and call us at (800) 588-0809
to make your reservation.