The ancient and wise physician Hippocrates pointed out: “It is not the physician who heals, but nature; the physician can only be her faithful helper and servant.” Naturopathy observes, studies and describes the principles and cycles of life in a similar way. Ultimately, this approach is still the basis of science and modern medicine today. Traditional naturopathy uses natural methods and remedies found in nature (e.g. heat, cold, light, air, water, earth, minerals, food and medicinal plants). Dietary and physical measures are also used preventively to keep body and mind pure and healthy. In the case of disharmony, it is important to find out where the natural processes are out of balance in order to give advice and support healthy changes. Both external and internal factors, such as the social environment, trauma imprints, environmental influences, consumption, beliefs, thoughts and emotions are taken into account. Along with this, the health of nature also has an important influence on us. This is why the topics of sustainability, nature protection and biodiversity are equally linked to naturopathy.

The traditional Indian art of healing, "Ayurveda", is literally translated from Sanskrit as life (ayus) and knowledge (veda), and describes a holistic view and way of life. This has been used and taught for thousands of years and like everything in life, it is constantly evolving. During my Ayurveda training we were advised to "observe and think in attributes", which describes this respectful and humble approach very nicely. Maintaining an observing attitude is not so much about understanding, but rather about recognising and feeling. All life processes appear in constant change and can be seen as flowing energy. A closer look at the elements (air, fire, water, and earth) reveals this. In order to make recommendations and promote a healthy balance, in the language of Ayurveda the attributes of the elements are also represented in the so-called Doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) and observing them is transferred to life processes. Furthermore "Agni" describes the principle of digestive fire and "Bala" the principles of strength, vitality, stamina and immunity. Here it is important to mention, that EVERYTHING is considered as a whole. Therefore, for example, physical or mental blockages/toxins (="Aam") affect all other "systems" and can manifest themselves in different ways. The ingenuity of Ayurveda and other traditional holistic healing arts lies in the fact that many approaches primarily serve health and promote the flow of energy ("Prana") as well as support „self-healing" and purification on all levels (physical, mental, and emotional) instead of just fighting against unwholesome conditions or persisting in this struggle.

In addition to the teachings of Ayurveda, which is known to work a lot with plant remedies, plants have always been used and revered in practically all cultures not only as food, but also for their healing purposes or to maintain health. In many wisdom traditions including classical Ayurveda, traditional european naturopathy and indigenous amazonian medicine practices, the different plants are viewed individually according to their properties, nature and „spirit“. These can then be used in a very targeted manner to bring disharmony back into balance and to cleanse or strengthen body and mind. It is therefore not surprising that many drugs in modern medicine stem from and are derived from herbal medicine. However, naturopathy cannot only be reduced to the intake of plants, but it also recommends, among other things, to get in touch with nature and the elements. This can be done very easily, for example, by walking in the woods, swimming in a lake, gazing at the stars or observing animals or plants. In doing this, it is important to be aware that we are also part of nature.

Nutrition and fasting are big topics that are much discussed nowadays and are getting more and more attention. Numerous studies, books, and opinions try to give answers and recommendations. There are also ecological aspects that need to be considered. I personally prefer a plant-based wholefood diet, one that is preferably local, seasonal, and organic. Moreover, fasting and intermittent fasting have long been known to have many healing effects. Growing herbs, fruits and vegetables and collecting wild plants is fun and allows us to appreciate the food Mother Earth provides us with.

From the point of view of Ayurveda, one's individual constitution plays an important role in getting indicators about which foods you tolerate particularly well and which you tolerate less. Your current life situation is also taken into account. If, for example, you are already under pressure and stressed out, it is advisable to reduce or omit various foods in order to create a balance. Regardless of how you approach the topic of nutrition, I believe it is essential that everyone develops a good body awareness and feels what is good for them. In order to bring healthy changes, it is also worth taking a look at consumption behaviour in general. In doing so, simple questions such as "What nourishes me?" or "What gets me down?" can help.

Many proverbs and sayings already refer to physical, emotional and mental connections, such as “This is getting on my stomach” or “This is getting under my skin”. To get a feeling for situations, symptoms and illnesses, a holistic view on how we express things is very helpful. This can bring clarity and be very insightful to find new ways that bring more balance and harmony.

Exercise is known to keep body and mind fit. Whether alone or in a group, indoors or outdoors, in a yoga studio or sports club, it's important to have fun in order to keep going. Body awareness and self-confidence are strengthened when the signals and limits of the body are respected.
Walks in nature, gentle activities, breathing exercises and meditation can create balance and help you to be present in the body. Here the mind comes to rest and the nervous system can calm down. There are many methods for this and here too it is important to try out what individually resonates.

The physicist Nikola Tesla once said: "If you want to find the mysteries of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibration." Sounds, singing, and music can touch us deeply and give us good vibrations in the truest sense of the word. The fact that vibrations and sounds influence matter is shown very impressively by so-called Chladni figures (sand patterns created on a metal plate that is made to vibrate) and photographs of water crystals that have previously been exposed to different sounds. Depending on which tones are played, different impressive geometric figures are created. There are also bee researchers who assume that the honeycomb patterns in hives are caused by vibration. When something sounds harmonious, we are in tune with that melody, and we resonate. This principle also probably partly explains the effect of the Indian mantras, the healing songs of the Amazon (Icaros), the rhythmic dances of Africa and many other sounds and melodies. Here, too, it is important with what intention these are sung and/or played. Music is like everything else in life: if it is practiced with passion and joy, it can touch us deeply and reach levels beyond the mind.

Seminars, workshops and retreats can use meditation, fasting, movement, music, dance and naturopathic methods to expand awareness, open up creatitivity and initiate processes. Integration sessions support the implementation of new insights and can bring clarity when dealing with intense experiences and challenges.

Supervision sessions are primarily aimed at therapists and people working in the healing professions or in an advisory or leading role. Supervision sessions are intended to bring clarity, strengthen communication in a respectful manner and at the same time promote personal growth for the benefit of all. Challenging situations and cases can be worked through and looked at from different angles.

Since this is the essence of health and life, I would like to conclude with these words. Practically all wisdom traditions convey the meaning of these terms and inspire us to not only regard them as a concept, but rather to experience, live and incorporate them into our thinking, acting and being. The wonder of creation, nature and so much more remind us that within these words lies the key to peace, happiness, and meaning of life. With love, gratitude, and trust in our heart as well as a humorous spirit, we can master many challenges (often in an amazingly easy way).