Where the 18 runes came from
Researcher Paul Mountfort’s study of modern runic guidebooks discusses List’s claimed visions following a 1902 eye operation and the system’s publication in 1908. List linked his system to eighteen spells in Hávamál; that literary connection does not establish an ancient eighteen-letter alphabet. Mountfort also discusses the racial-nationalist context of List’s work and later rune gymnastics associated with Friedrich Marby and Siegfried Kummer.
List died before the Nazis came to power. Later appropriation of runic forms does not make all historical runes or contemporary rune users extremist. However, the doubled Sig form used in the SS emblem has a specific Nazi association, documented in the ADL’s SS-bolts entry. Treat the shape, surrounding symbols and context carefully; reject racial supremacy rather than presenting it as spiritual wisdom.
What the postures and chants can and cannot do
Reasonable
A name or symbol may be an optional focus for a personal reflection. A seated notebook exercise is an alternative to standing postures or chanting. Neither calm nor a health benefit is guaranteed, and effects cannot be assumed equivalent to studied yoga or tai chi programs.
Not supported
Rune shapes and postures cannot reliably diagnose organ health, choose treatment or establish that a meridian has been strengthened. Claims about removing ancestral spirits from organs or curing illness are not a basis for healthcare decisions. Do not blame illness on spiritual failure or replace needed assessment with a ritual.
If you have symptoms, see a doctor; using runes alongside medical care explains how a symbolic practice can sit beside treatment without replacing it.
The 18 runes, briefly
This overview preserves common esoteric associations, not exact quotations from List or settled translations. Similar names across rune rows do not make their meanings interchangeable. Health, fate, victory and sacrifice below are symbolic themes, not promises or instructions.
| Armanen name | Related historical name (not identical meaning) | Modern esoteric association (not a medical claim) |
|---|---|---|
| Fa | Fé (Fehu) | Wealth, beginning, calling for help |
| Ur | Úr (Uruz) | Primal life force, health |
| Thorn | Þurs (Thurisaz) | Defence, the thorn that repels |
| Os | Óss (Ansuz) | Speech, spirit, freedom from constraint |
| Rit | Reið (Raidho) | Rhythm, law, the right order |
| Ka | Kaun (Kenaz) | Fire, capability, creation |
| Hagal | Hagall (Hagalaz) | The world crystal; List’s central rune |
| Not | Nauð (Nauthiz) | Need, necessity, fate |
| Is | Ís (Isa) | Will, the self, stillness |
| Ar | Ár (Jera) | Sun, harvest, renewal |
| Sig | Sól (Sowilo) | Victory, success; doubled form appropriated by the SS |
| Tyr | Týr (Tiwaz) | The warrior, sacrifice, rebirth |
| Bar | Bjarkan (Berkano) | Birth, the mother, growth |
| Laf | Lögr (Laguz) | Water, law of life, trust |
| Man | Maðr (Mannaz) | Humanity, spiritual development |
| Yr | Ýr | Roots, completion, seeing through illusion |
| Eh | (Ehwaz, borrowed from the Elder row) | Union, partnership |
| Gibor | (Gebo, borrowed from the Elder row) | Gift, union of creator and creation |
If you want to work with them
- There is no need to imitate a rune with your body. If you choose movement, adapt it to your abilities without painful positions or breath-holding; stop for pain, dizziness or distress. Ask a qualified professional about physical adaptations when needed.
- Use a theme only as an optional reflection prompt. Do not act on sacrifice, defence or fate as commands to harm yourself or others.
- Understand a symbol’s modern context before public display. Do not use Nazi emblems or racial-supremacist ideas; a historical rune alone is not proof of someone’s beliefs.
- Make no health decisions on the basis of any rune, posture or “diagnosis”.
The NCCIH’s meditation overview notes variable findings and possible negative experiences. That evidence does not validate Armanen healing claims. Keep any activity optional and separate from clinical treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Are the 18 Armanen runes an ancient alphabet?
No. They are a modern esoteric system associated with Guido von List and his 1908 publication, not the historical Elder Futhark. A claimed vision or literary connection does not establish ancient origin.
Can rune postures diagnose or heal organs?
They are not established diagnostic or treatment methods. Do not choose medication or delay care based on a rune, posture or claimed energy reading.
Are all runes extremist symbols?
No. Historical runes predate Nazism, and many uses are non-extremist. Specific appropriated forms, such as the doubled Sig SS emblem, carry Nazi associations; surrounding symbols and context matter.
Do I need to perform the postures or chants?
No. You can study the history or use an optional written reflection without movement or chanting. Stop any activity that causes pain, dizziness or distress, and do not assume a posture or meditation practice is harmless.
Key takeaways
- Separate a modern esoteric system from historical writing traditions.
- Know the political context without equating all rune use with extremism.
- Reflection is optional; diagnosis and treatment require appropriate healthcare.
I find the association of Runes with specific organs and meridians intriguing. It offers a unique perspective on healing that combines spiritual and physical elements.
While the concepts presented are outside conventional scientific understanding, the emphasis on energy and its impact on health is a notable point of discussion.
The correlation between the Runes and their symbolic meanings is well-articulated. It’s a rich blend of mythology and practical application.
The article touches upon profound aspects of existence, such as the connection to divine energy and self-esteem, making it a thought-provoking read.
The historical context of Runes and their connection to Odin adds depth to the understanding of their power and significance.
The article provides a detailed overview of the various Norse Runes and their applications in healing and magic. The connection with kinesiology is particularly interesting.
Indeed, it opens up possibilities for a holistic approach to health and well-being.
I agree. The integration of ancient practices with modern techniques like muscle testing is quite fascinating.