The Healing Powers of Water PDF Print E-mail
Contributed by Kneipp USA Staff - August 7th, 2006
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Kneipp
The Healing Powers of Water

“Nature has generously provided for us everything that we need
to remain in good health.” ...Sebastian Kneipp



The holistic thinking of Sebastian Kneipp is still valid today as ground breaking for naturopathic healing methods and preventative medicine.  The baths of the Greek and Roman empires, the cures of the Far East, as well as the medicine of the European cloisters, all contributed to the foundation of the 19th century holistic knowledge.

During the course of his life (1821-1897), Sebastian Kneipp combined the core elements of these well-springs of healing and systematically developed them to meet the needs of modern man.  This formed the basis of his visionary lifestyle; one that asks people to regard their daily habits and natural environment as inseparable from one another.  The name Kneipp stands not only for the scientifically proven natural healing products and applications, but also for a balanced holistic lifestyle, which today is frequently described as true “wellness.” 

During all these years, an entire town in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps has devoted itself to the Kneipp philosophy.  In the spa-village of Bad Wörishofen, almost every hotel and guest-house offers treatments of the well-known “Kneipp-Cure” where physicians practice Kneipp Naturopathy.

The Kneipp philosophy is based on five pillars.  The last, balance, is arguably the most important of the five.  The Kneipp philosophy does not claim one miracle product or treatment.  Rather it displays a lifestyle, where if followed in balance, true wellness will be obtained.  The five Kneipp pillars:

Plants
The theory of the healing effects of specially selected herbs and plants is the result of thousands of years of experience and forms the basis of the invaluable formulas from Sebastian Kneipp.  They contain high concentrations of natural plant extracts and are the key to effective healing and active health protection: “outer beauty and inner well-being.”

Water
Water is an ideal conductor of heat and coolness as well as a stimulus to chemical and mechanical reactions.  In the center of the so named “hydrotherapy,” also known as the famous “Kneipp Cure,” are the pleasant applications of warm and cold water.  This stimulates the circulation and improves the natural healing powers of the body.

Exercise
Regular physical activity, preferably out in the countryside, is an important aspect.  Sebastian Kneipp recommended light physical activities like hiking, swimming and bike- riding as well as a moderate program of physical training, without the pressure of competition.  All of this revitalizes the entire organism. It strengthens the body’s natural immune defenses and conveys a sense of general well-being.

Nutrition
A varied and healthy diet is a key ingredient of the holistic approach.  Sebastian Kneipp did not subscribe to the concept of a strict diet; rather he encouraged frequent, balanced and nutritious but low-fat meals.  Since food and beverage played a central role in controlling inner balance and joy of life, meals should be a palatable and pleasant experience.

Balance
Each one of these elements are important, yet they develop their full potential when combined with a conscious and consistent lifestyle.  The balancing of all these activities was Sebastian Kneipp’s fundamental prerequisite for a healthy, active and content life.

This equilibrium links all the elements and unites them into a single logical concept. The thinking of Sebastian Kneipp was not one of strict decrees or “forbidden” activities, rather it was one of suggestions.  With the help of these ideas and recommendations, one can find a lasting sense of wellness.  This principle can be summed up by his statement:
“Everything within its own time, and everything within proper balance.” 

For the stress plagued men and women of today, this means that they must above all, take the time to unwind, relax and consciously enjoy life with all of their senses.  It is necessary to find a harmonious rhythm to life, and give equal importance to body, mind and soul. 


The Kneipp Collection is available on www.kneippus.com, Nordstrom department stores, Bath and Body Works, CO Bigelow and Parfumerie Douglas.  For additional information, contact LaForce + Stevens or visit the Kneipp website.

 
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Did you know?

Date of Birth
Sebastian Kneipp was born May 17, 1824 at Stefansried, a tiny Bavarian hamlet.
 

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