Hydrotherapy is the main activity of Sebastian Kneipp, who lived in Bavaria in the 19th century. He, knowing about the healing properties of water, tried to systematize this knowledge. And he succeeded. Trying all the methods on himself, he was healed. Today, Kneipp hydrotherapy is actively used in sanatoriums, fitness clubs, SPA centers, medical clinics.
Kneip's hydrotherapy consists of using several procedures, these are:
- walking barefoot on wet surfaces;
- baths;
- water intake (pure and in the form of herbal infusions).
The Kneipp method of recovery
Sebastian Kneipp himself tried a wide variety of options for the effects of water on the human body: baths, douches, walking on water and much more. He described all his rich experience in the book, which he called "My Hydrotherapy". As a result - a whole systematized method for improving the body. It consists of several principles:
- Hydrotherapy.
- He althy eating.
- Phytotherapy.
- Gymnastics.
- Walks.
- Psychosomatics.
All these areas are still developingsince. Many sanatoriums, hospitals (both abroad and in Russia) offer improved Kneipp methods.
Sebastian was actively involved in the development of an effective method of hardening the body. It included 3 stages:
- Walking on water.
- Immersion in cold water.
- Pouring.
Famous path
The first stage of Kneipp hardening was the impetus for the creation of a special track. It consists of several reservoirs with water at once. Some are filled with hot liquid, some are cold. All of them are next to each other. To create natural reliefs at the bottom of these containers, modern tiles with imitation of stone, grass, etc. are now used. Such a surface allows acupuncture points to be massaged on the foot, which affect the functioning of all organs of the human body.
For sanatoriums, spas and other similar establishments, the sale of such devices is provided. The Kneipp path can be round, rectangular, with handrails, various designs. It is equipped with special systems that independently maintain the temperature inside the tanks, and are also responsible for changing the water.
The Kneipp path, equipped with your own hands, will be a great addition to the bathhouse, in the country. This is a great healing and relaxing remedy. You can create both a temporary version of such a track (from various containers), and a permanent one. This will require basins or any other containers, grass, stones, sand, as well as water from varioustemperature.
Kneip track: how to use it?
There are special guidelines for how the Kneipp path should be traversed. This will help you get the desired effect faster. Before proceeding with the walk, it is recommended to thoroughly warm up the body, or at least only the legs and arms.
Further, experts advise to follow this sequence:
- Walking on the grass. This step should not take more than 10 minutes. The main thing is to feel a slight chill in the legs.
- Moving on cold water is better with a marching step. This will help to feel the contrast of warm air and cool water. The main thing is to keep even breathing, and the steps should be smooth and slow. This procedure should take several minutes.
- Next, with a neat and slow step, you should go through the entire track. Then the step can be accelerated. Duration - 10 minutes.
- After that, you should lower your arms to the elbow in cold water for 10-20 seconds. This is the final stage.
After the Kneipp path is passed, it is recommended to get dressed and drink hot tea infused with medicinal herbs.
Kneip path: indications and contraindications
Contrast baths in the Kneipp path are an excellent healing and reflex-stimulating therapy. If you regularly perform such a procedure, then you can:
- Protect the body from diseases.
- Strengthen immunity.
- Improve circulation and blood supply.
- Increase tone.
Like any other healing and healing method, the Kneipp path has its contraindications:
- High body temperature.
- Cold limbs - they need to be warmed up first.
- Passing procedures during which the body was exposed to low temperatures over the next two hours.
Kneip tracks will always remain popular. This traditional method of hydrotherapy allows you to get back in shape, improve immunity and always be in a good mood.
