Today we would like to honor an important pioneer, visionary, and influential naturopath on the occasion of his birthday on May 17, 1821 († June 17, 1897): Sebastian Kneipp. His work and tireless commitment to a healthy life in harmony with nature, his extensive knowledge of natural medicine, and his holistic understanding of health continue to shape our healthcare culture today.
“Prevention is better than cure.”
Based on his own experience with illness (tuberculosis) and healing through water applications, as well as his awareness of society’s need for natural and affordable remedies, Sebastian Kneipp developed a holistic health concept. Today, Kneipp’s teachings are established in both therapeutic and preventive care. The five pillars—water, medicinal herbs, exercise, balance, and nutrition—define his holistic approach.
Did you know that today’s established knowledge about body wraps is largely based on Kneipp’s teachings? Although water was already considered a healing agent in ancient times and pioneers such as Johann Siegmund Hahn and Vincenz Prießnitz contributed important foundations, modern hydrotherapy recommendations are largely based on Kneipp’s work.
Kneipp also recognized early on the importance of material properties for successful body wrap applications. At Wickel & Co.®, we likewise place great importance on using only high-quality fabrics made from natural materials, preferably from certified organic cultivation. Our materials are laboratory-tested for harmful substances and meet the requirements for use with young children. Especially in times of increasing allergies, material purity is becoming ever more important. For this reason, all printed or dyed fabrics we use are processed with non-toxic dyes. Fabrics containing synthetic fibers can reduce the beneficial effects of wraps, which is why we use only natural materials.
More information about the materials used can be found on our website under the section: "Materials/Raw Materials".
