Watsu is a water-based massage therapy that uses stretching and Shiatsu techniques to help the client achieve a state of bliss.
Before we dive into the specifics of this aquatic Bodywork, let’s take a moment to imagine what it would feel like to be cradled in warm water while someone massages and supports your entire body. Doesn’t that sound wonderful?
The term Watsu® comes from the words “water” and “shiatsu.” Shiatsu is a type of traditional Japanese massage that uses acupressure to promote relaxation. In Japanese, shiatsu means “finger pressure.”
Watsu® is a form of water therapy, which is also called hydrotherapy. It involves stretches, massages, and acupressure in warm water.
In 1980, Harold Dull, a Zen Shiatsu expert, discovered an ingenious idea – that it was simpler for his clients’ muscles and tissues to relax in the water. Consequently, he realized shiatsu techniques were far more effective when conducted in the water; thus Watsu was born!
Generally, Watsu therapy helps to reduce pain and distress caused by a variety of conditions. The concept behind it is that the calming sensation from water resistance can relax both mind and body, leading to improved well-being in general.
How Does it Work?
An aquatic bodywork session is a blissful experience that takes place in the water of a warm pool. This warm and soothing environment has been heated to your body temperature water of a 95°F (35°C), practically matching your skin’s natural temperature.
During Watsu, a therapist will subtly move your body as you float in water. This type of hydrotherapy allows for deep relaxation and it’s remarkable how effortless the movements can be with no active participation needed from yourself.
“Watsu feels like a water breath dance”
Your therapist is in the water with you, guiding your body through a series of specific motions that may include:
- gentle twisting
- rocking or cradling
- stretching
- massaging pressure points
Our mission is to alleviate tension in your muscle and fascia tissue while encouraging the natural flow of energy or qi.
Aquatic therapy sessions are often conducted in tranquil environments to enhance relaxation and stress relief. To further aid in inducing a sense of serenity, many Watsu practitioners play calming music during the session.
What Is It Used For?
Watsu offers therapeutic restorative benefits, as it is used to both reduce pain and tension while also increasing physical movement and joint flexibility.
It may provide relief for people with:
- muscle tension
- low back pain
- chronic pain
- fibromyalgia
- discomfort during pregnancy
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- anxiety
- depression
- sleep disorders
- stress-related conditions
- neurological conditions (like multiple sclerosis)
- spinal cord injury
- injury rehabilitation
- Mood Disorders
What Are The Benefits?
Despite being practiced since 1980, Watsu has not been widely examined. However, existing research and evidence suggest that it provides several noteworthy benefits such as:
Decreased pain
Studies have revealed that aquatic bodywork is linked to pain relief. A 2015 study assessing the impacts of nine healthy expectant mothers had a positive outcome; participants reported lower levels of discomfort after receiving Watsu treatment. The researchers concluded this was likely due to water immersion’s soothing effect on joint pressure.
Pregnant women have been using water to soothe their sore bodies and increase their endorphins since the dawn of time. It’s the ideal medium for healing and supporting you during this blessed time of your life.
Reduced anxiety
Pain, anxiety and stress are commonly entwined in a tangled web. Nevertheless, studies have proven that if you can control your pressure levels then it will be easier to manage your symptoms as well; this effect is also true the other way around.
Watsu is a unique means of reducing anxiety – by utilizing the soothing properties of water to move, stretch, while the Watsu practitioner and gently cradles your body for deep relaxation and healing. The effectiveness of Watsu is far greater than traditional massage table.
Increased joint mobility
Water has the remarkable power of lessening the effects of gravity on your body, allowing you to move freely with considerably reduced strain and pressure on your joints.
Things to Consider.
Experience the therapeutic sensation of Watsu by entrusting a professional therapist to guide and support your body through buoyant movements in the water. By being closely connected with the therapist, you will have an unforgettable experience that is both calming and comforting.
Please avoid a Watsu treatment if you have the following:
- fever
- uncontrolled epilepsy
- serious cardiac problems
- unstable angina
- open wounds
- skin infections
- serious urinary tract problems
- bowel incontinence
- respiratory disease
- allergy to pool chemicals
These conditions may be worsened or complicated by water therapy.
Your therapist should also take extra precautions if you have:
- osteoporosis
- spinal problems
- balance problems
What Does a Typical Watsu Session Involve?
During your tailored Watsu session, you will experience a combination of massage strokes, stretches and movements meant to alleviate the discomfort associated with your condition. Every detail is crafted for maximum relief personally catered to you.During a Watsu session, your exact needs take precedence. Still, you may typically anticipate the following:
- Your therapist might have you wear floating devices on your arms or legs.
- Allow yourself to enter the warm water and sink into a calm, gentle float on your back. Your head and knees will be cradled in your therapist’s supportive arms.
- Slowly, your therapist will bring you through a series of full rotations to align and relax every muscle in your body.
- Your counselor will guide you in the pool by swaying their arms outward and then back to themselves while they skim through the water, allowing your body to be moved gently back and forth.
- Your therapist will guide your limbs in a rhythmic, soothing sequence. They may also flex, elevate, or rotate various components of your body to assist with the process.
- They may cradle your head and sweep you across the floor in majestic, sweeping circles.
- During your session, the therapist will knead and manipulate specific pressure points on your body for maximum relief.
Generally, one session lasts a full hour.
How to Find a Watsu Practitioner
To experience the full benefits of Watsu, it is essential to find a qualified and certified practitioner. To make sure that your therapist meets all state standards, please consult with your local health board regarding their credentials prior to booking an appointment.
If you require assistance for a specific ailment or are struggling with discomfort, try to locate a therapist who is experienced in addressing these issues. This way, you can receive the best possible care and treatment plan designed just for your needs.
To find a Watsu therapist, you can search:
You can also contact the following locations and ask if they offer Watsu:
- local spas
- wellness centers
- aqua therapy clinics
Where Can I Learn Watsu?
The established form of WATSU® is taught in the 50-hour intensives, WATSU® 1 and 2. It has been developed over the last thirty years by Harold Dull with the help of instructors who have been applying and fine-tuning it in their practice and classes around the world.
There are 7 classes
- Basic Watsu
- Watsu 2
- Watsu 3
- Watsu 4
- Additional Watsy and Aquatic Bodywork Classes
Make sure you enlist in an accredited Watsu course to ensure you receive the proper training and accreditation.
Wrap Up
Watsu therapy infuses the power of massage, acupressure and shiatsu into an aquatic experience. The tranquil nature of this therapeutic practice is known to bring in a new dimension of heading while offering a unique kind of deep state of relaxation that can’t be found anywhere else. Allowing your body to float in warm water as it’s gently moved by your therapist will leave you feeling relaxed, renewed, and restored!
Although there isn’t a great deal of research in this area, Watsu therapy is extremely popular for healing injuries, managing ailments like fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis, as well as increasing range of motion.
Prior to utilizing Watsu, it is essential that you first seek medical advice to make sure the therapy is suitable for you.
Watsu® is a registered trademark of Calias P. Dull, daughter of the late Harold K. Dull.
