Kneipp therapy is based on 5 pillars: water, exercise, nutrition, medicinal herbs and a balance between body and soul.
Kneipp was not a natural healer for the rich. His advice is simple, can be implemented at home without great resources and effort, and is still sustainable. That is why they are so successful to this day, because they are suitable for everyone.
With the water treatments, the pastor strengthens the body's self-healing powers. In addition, there is movement to give the body the necessary balance. When it comes to medicinal herbs, Kneipp trusts in the power of nature. He recommends unprocessed foods whenever possible. Mental balance, inner peace and the ability to relax are important therapy goals.
In fact, in 1847 Kneipp was “on the edge of the grave” and, according to current knowledge, was suffering from tuberculosis. An old book about the healing powers of water became his lifesaver. He hiked to the Danube 2-3 times a week, dived into the cold water for 3-5 seconds and got well again. The pastor in Bad Wörishofen developed his five-pillar model based on his personal experiences.