WHAT:
The “water doctor” is in. Sebastian Kneipp, the founder of Kneipp, earned this nickname because he helped repopularize hydrotherapy in the 19th century.
Kneipp therapy is a holistic method that uses contrasting applications of hot and cold water to stimulate blood flow, increase metabolism, and boost the immune system.
Water therapies are what Kneipp is best-known for—which is why they’re our focus today—but his methodology “is based on five pillars: lifestyle, water, exercise, nutrition, and herbal medicine,” explains Vera Beccatini, Spa Director at the Tschuggen Bergoase Spa at Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa. (The spa’s holistic concept involves Kneipp therapy.) “The interplay of these five principles can be used both as a preventative and curative treatment.”
Other therapies include barefoot walking, walking on pebbles, baths, rinses, and wraps.
WHY:
“The aim of Kneipp therapy is to harden the body, strengthen the immune system, and achieve a natural, balanced lifestyle,” Vera says.
Kneipp developed nearly 300 water cure formulas. Vera tells us that the best-known healing method is probably Kneipp treading. This involves treading (walking) in a cold water pool with pebbles on the bottom to massage the reflex zones on the soles of your feet.
“It works wonders for tired limbs and [can help] stimulate circulation, metabolism and blood flow, relieve insomnia and migraines, and strengthen the immune system,” she says. “Regular water treatments also have a positive effect on high blood pressure.”
We’ve previously reported on other benefits of hot and cold therapies, like reducing inflammation and quelling anxiety.
WHERE:
This treatment has long been popular in Europe, with numerous spas incorporating aspects of Kneipp’s methods. As water therapy gains traction in other parts of the world, like the U.S., we imagine we’ll see more spas adding these offerings to their menu.
Some high-end fittings companies, like Dornbracht, offer at-home shower heads that incorporate the hydrotherapy principles of Kneipp. But at the moment, these tend to be very $$$$.
Other less-expensive ways to incorporate Kneipp principles into your wellness routine include ice baths/cold showers and heat therapies like hot compresses and soaks.
WHO:
“Only carry out Kneipp treatments such as hydrotherapy or exercise therapy if you feel fit and do not have a cold or are cold,” Vera advises. “You should also avoid Kneipp treatments if you have open wounds or cardiovascular disease.”