Standing surrounded by near body temperature water with my arms floating in front of me, I was instructed to close my eyes and listen to my breath. Stephanie Dutton, my Watsu practitioner, gently guided my body into a horizontal floating position with my head cradled in her arms and my nose above the water. The sounds of the surrounding world vanished as my ears dipped below the surface, and I heard only my own inhales and exhales. With total trust, I relaxed into the buoyancy of the water and the support of Stephanie. She began to lightly rock, sway and pull me through the water, which caressed every inch of my body. Rhythmically, with my breath, she directed my legs toward my stomach and back out again. Working her way around my body, Stephanie also stretched and massaged my arms and back. All the while, my only responsibility was to breathe and enjoy the moment.

   The name “Watsu” is derived from the words “water” and “Shiatsu.” This aquatic bodywork offers gentle stretching and massaging while floating in warm water. In addition to generating a deep state of relaxation, it increases flexibility and strengthens muscles. The resistance of the water increases the stretch and the way in which the practitioner can administer it. The warmth of the water promotes blood circulation. The buoyancy and position in the water provides a unique experience that cannot be duplicated on land. While appropriate for anyone seeking massage, stretching and relaxation, Watsu is particularly appealing to pregnant women.

   Finishing the session, Stephanie guided my feet back to the bottom of the pool and eased my back against the pool wall. She carefully released me from her gentle hold and stepped back to allow my mind to return as well. Still swaying in the water, I slowly opened my eyes but invited the deep sense of relaxation to remain in my body and in my mind. It stayed with me long after I left the pool. Watsu is unlike any other bodywork, and I look forward to my next wonderful experience.

Stephanie Dutton is a specialized swimming teacher from the United Kingdom, now working in the Cleveland, Ohio area, offering education, training and water therapy. She offers Watsu sessions at Lifeworks of Southwest General in Middleburg Heights, as well as at your own facility provided the pool depth and temperature can meet the requirements. For more information, e-mail Stephanie@enjoythewater.com, call (440) 292-6776 or visit www.enjoythewater.com.