Watsu

Just Add Water

If you are looking for a great way to relax and feel great, you'll find that one great option that is open to you is Watsu massage! Watsu massage first hit the scene almost thirty years ago, and today, it has spread to forty different countries.

This innovative massage, which combines the best parts of water therapy and Eastern modality shiatsu massage, has been used to treat problems with chronic pain and is one of the most effective tools that are used by aquatic therapists.

The term watsu is a combination of the words “water” and shiatsu, and it also combines the powerfully effective techniques of shiatsu therapy with the support and gentleness off water therapy.

It was created in the early eighties by massage therapist Harold Dull, who at the time was the director of the Harbin School of Shiatsu and Massage in Northern California. The form slowly evolved and today many practitioners of watsu massage therapy will incorporate an element of Zen philosophy and meditation into their sessions as well (Zen Shiatsu).

What to expect from watsu therapy

You may find yourself wondering what to expect when you sign up for a session of watsu therapy. In many cases, watsu therapy will take place in a private indoor or outdoor pool with the water at 98 degrees, and it will be a one on one session with your massage therapist.

Many people find that an indoor pool with the tall empty spaces and distant echoes to be quite soothing, while others enjoy outdoor pools because they can connect to nature.
You'll come into the pool at a depth that will allow you to stand with your head clear of the water, and your watsu massage therapist will direct you to float and while keeping your face above the water and breathing normally.

From there, you'll find that your watsu massage therapist will take you through a series of motions that are designed specifically for you, and any problems that you are looking to help or alleviate.

The support of the water makes this therapy ideal for anyone who has problems with their joints, and you will find that you can go through a series of stretches that would impossible on dry land.
In time with your breathing, your massage therapist will guide you through a series of stretches that will warm you up for more strenuous stretches later on. The session will come to a close when your watsu massage therapist has returned you to a vertical position.

To watch a watsu video click here.

There is a strong emphasis on breathing, which makes sense, as any swimmer will tell you. When you are in the pool, with your ears under the water, you will be more conscious of your breathing and how your breath affects your body. The stretches will often be done in time with your breathing, and you'll find that when you coordinate your breathing with your body that you are capable of a lot more than you might have thought!

Benefits of Watsu

After coming out of a watsu massage session, you will feel rejuvenated, maybe even a little giddy. Many people feel more stretched out and limber than they have in years, and this makes sense, as some of those poses and stretches are completely impossible to duplicate on the ground with no water.
This is an excellent massage therapy for anyone who has an interest in massages that will be easy on the joints and that will leave you feeling great.

Watsu massage was recently voted the number one treatment offered in Asian spas, and many people have realized what a powerful experience it is. It has helped people who deal with chronic pain, and given the rehabilitative aspect of this therapy, it is no surprise. Furthermore, many of the effects that come with watsu therapy seem to be fairly long lasting.

Many people who take watsu massage leave saying that they feel more connected with the various parts of their body, and that the massage helps their body operate as a whole.
Watsu massage is also ideal for pregnant women, though you should always make sure that your massage therapist has experience working with pregnant clients. The water provides a soothing sense of support that other massages lack.

Today watsu massage is still gaining reputation among spa and health professionals as one of the most result-oriented spa treatments. If you are interested in watsu massage, take a look around and find a spa or health club that offers it. Find out what this fascinating and relaxing massage therapy can do for you!

The following are some of the spas that are currently offering this type of therapy:

The Spa at Amelia Island Plantation:
Amelia Island, Florida.
Clients receiving Watsu relax in a therapeutic pool on its own private island. A majestic boardwalk connects it t o the sea side resort which sits on three miles of beautiful beach.

Sea Spa:
Coronado, California.
Watsu is their signature treatment and it is a popular choice for clients with cancer, pregnant women and athletes with sports injuries due to its ability to relax, heal and detoxify.

ShaNah Spa and Wellness Center:
Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The spa’s treatments focus on the connection between Mother Nature and ancient Navajo wisdom. The watsu pool sits on a private veranda overlooking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.