Anthroposophic nursing is a holistic approach to healthcare rooted in anthroposophy, a philosophy developed by Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century. Training to become an anthroposophic nurse (AN) begins with conventional nursing education, typically as a registered nurse (RN), followed by a specialized two-year program offered by the North American Anthroposophic Nurses Association (NAANA). This program integrates traditional RN knowledge with anthroposophic principles, equipping nurses to care for patients holistically.

Anthroposophic knowledge seeks to treat the whole person by observing the human being through a three-fold and four-fold framework. This perspective views disease as arising not only from physical symptoms but also from imbalances in the broader aspects of human existence—body, soul, and spirit. These are described as:

 • Physical Body: The material aspect, akin to stone.

 • Etheric Body: The life force tied to rhythmic processes, similar to plants.Sustain vitality and growth

 • Astral Body: The emotional and soul life, reflected in the animal kingdom.

 • “I” (Ego): The conscious self-awareness unique to humans, expressed as “I am.”

An anthroposophic nurse assesses the four-fold status of each patient and offers tailored natural treatments to address individual needs. These treatments include:

 • Herbal Compresses: Applied to specific internal organs such as the Liver or kidney, or lungs.

 • Rhythmical Einreibung (RE): A gentle, rhythmic oil-rubbing technique (from German “Einreibung”)Reminds the body of its natural rhythm and awakens the healing process.

 • Foot Baths: Used to promote relaxation and balance by drawing forces active in the head down to the limbs.

Applications

These methods can support a range of conditions, such as:

 • Wound Treatment: Post-operative care, bed sores, cuts, and blunt injuries.

 • Anxiety and Agitation: Calmed with herbal compresses and rhythmical Einribung.

 • Flu Symptoms: Addressing cough, runny nose, fever, and general weakness.

 • Depression: Compressing targeting the liver an organ mediating between the physical and the soul life.

 • Headaches: Relieving tension and pain.

 • Abdominal Issues: Managing constipation, diarrhea, and menstrual discomfort.

 • Chronic Pain: Providing relief through natural means RE and healing oils.

 • Hospice Services: Offering comfort in end-of-life care.

All services are available by appointment only at the Tryon Yoga Center.