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When you hear the term water walking, the first image that pops into your head may be of middle-aged to elderly folks moving in a pool. However, water walking, more commonly utilized in Europe, is a hydrotherapy (water therapy) practice developed by Father Sebastian Kneipp. He healed himself with cold water therapies, and he spent the rest of his life teaching and healing the sick.

Water walking, also known as water treading, ‘water stepping’, stork walking, or Kneipp walking, involves stepping in cold water for a few minutes. The water depth is generally around 12 inches in depth and should be cooler than 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, once you are warm via exercise or a hot bath/shower, remove your shoes if possible (barefoot is best) and walk in the water by mimicking a stork. Each step should be slow and methodical, lifting one leg out of the water with your thigh parallel to the ground. Next, gently but intentionally place your foot back down and repeat this action with the other foot. This can be done in a tub at home, or in a cool mountain stream or lake.

It’s important to note you should first be warm before water treading. Cold water on an already cold body can make health conditions worse. After water walking, you should either walk on dry land or, if unable to exercise, hop in a bed to warm back up. Water treading before bed can help ensure sleep is more restful. Other potential benefits of water walking can include getting rid of headaches, supporting a lower blood pressure and stronger cardiovascular system, and toughening up the body’s overall constitution. It also supports a healthy nervous and immune system. If you have balance problems, dizziness, or low blood pressure, consult your doctor before attempting water treading.

If you are looking for more information on water walking, consider reading Kneipp’s book My Water Cure. Interested in trying hydrotherapy? Hazelnut Naturopathic Health offers a few appointment options. Reach out to learn more!

Resources:

1. Czeranko, Sussanna. 2019. "Father Sebastian Kneipp (1821-1897)." Integrative Medicine; 18(4): 24.
2. Bioregulatory Medicine Institute. N.D. "History - Father Sebastian Kneipp." Retrieved Nov. 29, 2023. https://www.brmi.online/sebastian-kneipp
3. "Summer Soaks in Hot Springs and Kneipp Walking." 2021. Retrieved Nov. 29, 2023. https://yellowstonehotspringsmt.com/summer-soaks-in-hot-springs
4. "Where Kneippen Was Invented: Bad Worishofen." N.D. Retrieved Nov. 29, 2023. https://www.germany.travel/en/experience-enjoy/bad-woerishofen-where-kneippen-was-invented.html

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