Wellness dictionary

Little ABC for your spa-break questions ...

In their treatment discriptions, wellness hotels often use technical terms, which are hard to understand for potential guests. We have therefore collected and defined the most relevant terms in our small wellness ABC. A tip: Our wellness dictionary also supports word requests. You don't need to know the exact wording.

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Ornish, Dr. Dean

What is the therapy developed by Dean Ornish about?

Dr. Ornish has developed a programme that focuses on healing the heart - physically, emotionally and spiritually. It is the only scientifically based heart disease treatment programme that does not require cholesterol-lowering drugs or surgery. The only side effect is a change in lifestyle. The only side effect is a change in lifestyle, with an increase in zest for life and vitality, a reduction or complete disappearance of chest pain, and a reduction or complete discontinuation of medication. Cholesterol levels will fall - even without cholesterol tablets. There is no need for asceticism or deprivation, although the diet associated with the programme is a completely different way of eating. The aim of this programme is not only to help you live longer, although this is likely to be the case, but also to enjoy life.

How does the Dean Ornish programme work?

Dr. Ornish's programme contains the following components:

Stress management exercises (meditation, relaxation techniques)
A diet very low in fat and cholesterol
A system that helps to get rid of dependencies, e.g. smoking, coffee, alcohol, etc. (Yoga, 5 Tibetans)
A moderate physical training (sports, yoga)

Can the Dean Ornish healing programme replace conventional therapy?

The healing programme, which Dean Ornish calls "Opening the heart", is a supplement to, not a substitute for, conventional medical therapy. If you suffer from coronary heart disease or other disorders, you should always consult your doctor before starting the programme. Everyone is different, so you have to decide for yourself whether or not to have bypass surgery, whether angioplasty is useful or unnecessary, and whether or not to take medication. Basically, "opening the heart" is about how we can learn to feel freer and happier.

How we can open our heart to a higher power and rediscover our self and the sources of inner peace and joy. In other words, this healing programme is about taking advantage of the joy of life and not sinking into lethargy, and also taking good care of yourself so that you can give more to others.