Naturopathy, what is it?
In ancient Greek philosophy, the concept of phýsis (φύσις) interprets nature as the entirety of all that is born, evolves, and transforms. This foundational idea inspired some of the earliest reflections on natural approaches to health.
The term "Naturopathy" is rooted in two words:
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Natura, meaning nature.
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Pathos, meaning suffering or disease.
In 1926, Dr. John Scheel was the first to propose the phrase “Nature + Pathos” to define a healing approach centered on the forces of nature. However, this initial formulation achieved only limited recognition.
It wasn’t until 1902 that the term was definitively simplified to "Naturopathy", literally meaning "Nature’s Path". This name perfectly encapsulates the core philosophy of the practice: healing by following the natural laws of the body and the environment.
Your Naturopathy Journey: A Tailored Approach
The Consultation Process
The consultation begins with an in-depth discussion where my client shares the reasons for their visit. Through a thoughtful and compassionate dialogue, I explore various aspects of their health—physical, mental, and emotional—to create a comprehensive case history, which we validate together.
(Duration: approximately 2 hours)
Based on this case history and the specific needs identified, I design a personalized support program. This program incorporates tailored Naturopathic tools, such as:
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Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Bach Flower Remedies
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Psychoenergetics
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Dietetics and Nutrition
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Energetic Nutrition
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Herbal Medicine (Phytotherapy)
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Aromatherapy
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Oligotherapy (using the Ménétrier method)
This program is presented during a follow-up appointment, where I provide detailed explanations of the steps needed to improve my client’s overall health and well-being.
Customized Follow-Up Care
Depending on the nature of the issue or the goal to be achieved, a follow-up appointment is scheduled 1 to 3 months after the program is delivered. This follow-up allows us to assess progress, adjust recommendations as needed, and ensure sustainable guidance toward a better balance in life.
Principles of Naturopathy
What is meant by someone's constitution?
The Vase Theory: Understanding Our Capacity for Resilience
The personal vase symbolizes the body’s ability to compensate for external stressors—whether physical, emotional, or environmental.
When the vase becomes too full, the "drop that overflows the vase" represents the trigger for an imbalance or illness. This overflow occurs when our natural capacity for resilience is exceeded.
What Fills Our Vase?
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Our constitution (heredity, physical predispositions).
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Our emotional and spiritual conflicts (stress, trauma, suppressed emotions).
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Our deficiencies in essential nutrients (vitamins, minerals, trace elements).
The Role of the Naturopath: Caring for the Vase, Not Just the Drop
Unlike allopathic medicine, which focuses on treating the symptom (the drop), the Naturopath takes a holistic approach by caring for the entire vase—addressing the individual’s overall constitution.
This involves:
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Cleansing the vase by supporting the body in eliminating accumulated toxins and waste.
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Nourishing the vase by providing the essential nutrients the body needs to function optimally.
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Strengthening the terrain to prevent the vase from overflowing again.
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This preventive and comprehensive approach enables the body to restore its natural balance and activate its innate self-healing power.
The Role of the Naturopath:
Supporting Natural Self-Healing
A naturopath does not diagnose or treat diseases in the medical sense, as they are not medical doctors. Instead, their role is to support and guide the body in its natural self-healing process using natural approaches tailored to the individual's constitution and needs.
Rather than focusing solely on visible symptoms, the naturopath seeks to identify and address the deeper imbalances that underlie health issues. By working on the body’s overall terrain, they aim to restore balance and prevent recurrence.
Modern Medicine: Grounded in Evidence of Effectiveness
Modern medicine is based on evidence of effectiveness, meaning treatments are validated through the scientific method. Practices must be tested, verified, and published in reputable scientific journals, ensuring reliable and reproducible results.
Is Holistic Medicine Evidence-Based?
Yes, holistic medicine is grounded in tangible evidence, derived from observable results through practical experience and comprehensive support for individuals. It relies on natural approaches designed to assist the body’s self-healing process while addressing all dimensions of the person: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
"Magic is what cannot be explained; once explained, it becomes science. Humans attribute magical qualities to what exceeds their understanding. Today, it is essential to move beyond the rational and fragmented explanations of scientific medicine to rediscover the meaning of pain and illness."
Disorders and Imbalances a Naturopath Can Support
Naturopathy aims to enhance overall vitality, helping to prevent imbalances and maintain good health by stimulating the body’s natural ability to regulate and defend itself.
The naturopath supports the body’s self-healing process in addressing various physical, emotional, or metabolic issues. However, it is important to note that a naturopath does not provide medical diagnoses and does not replace conventional medical care.
