The Therapies
Anthroposophical Medicine
Anthroposophical medicine emerged almost a century ago as an integrative medicine- including conventional medical practice and extending it- by taking into account a broader spectrum of factors when treating illness and offering many new approaches to treatment.
Rudolf Steiner, the Austrian scientist and philosopher, was the founder of a new science called "anthroposophy" in which the human being and the natural world were described not only physically, but also in terms of soul and spirit. The science, and art, of anthroposophical medicine developed from this understanding and was originally pioneered in Switzerland by Dr Ita Wegman.
The anthroposophical doctor recognises each individual human being in their unique biography and life situation. Scientific, artistic, social and spiritual insights may need to be applied together in developing an individualised treatment programme. At the core of anthroposophical medicine is an understanding that life has meaning and purpose, and that the loss of the sense of this is often reflected in a deterioration of health. Illness is regarded as an opportunity for positive change and growth.
A central aim of anthroposophical medicine is to stimulate the natural healing forces inherent in the human being. Anthroposophical medicines and new therapies have been developed to this end. There are "physical" therapies such as rhythmic massage and hydrotherapy and also "artistic" therapies including eurythmy, speech, music, painting and sculpture, which depend upon the active involvement of the patient. The healing process may be further supported by counselling, potentially bringing new perspectives to important life questions. Doctors support patients to take responsibility for their own path of recovery and encourage their active involvement in choosing therapies and treatments.
