“It was said in Egypt that water is given to the soul as compensation for taking on a bodily form. In water, our bodies find that freedom the soul has lost. Watsu is the continuing exploration of that freedom.”
– Harold Dull

    The name “Watsu” is derived from the words “water” and “Shiatsu.” Developed as the first form of aquatic bodywork by Harold Dull in 1980, Watsu offers gentle stretching and massaging while floating in warm water. A profoundly moving and relaxing form of passive aquatic therapy, Watsu combines the therapeutic benefits of warm water with elements from such disciplines as Zen Shiatsu, yoga, Alexander Technique and meditation.

    During a Watsu session, the recipient floats face up with most of the body just under the surface of the water. With the support of the practitioner and the body's natural buoyancy in the water (water supports 85 to 90 percent of our body weight) a series of stretches is administered. The resistance of the water increases the stretch while being in the water lessens the weight on the spine. The warmth of the water promotes circulation while generating a deep state of relaxation, enhancing the body's response to the positions by releasing long-held physical and emotional tensions. Watsu is a unique experience that cannot be duplicated out of the water.

    Dull explains, “Watsu has evolved into what many consider the most profound development in bodywork in our time. While other modalities are based on touch alone, the combination of touch, stretching and buoyancy in water brings the receiver to a new level of connection and trust. This, combined with the therapeutic benefits of warm water and the greater freedom of movement, creates a healing practice that can affect every level of our being.”

    Certified by the Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association, a qualified Watsu practitioner performs movements in harmony with the receiver's breathing patterns to inspire the natural regeneration of the mind and body. Muscles are gently massaged and lengthened. Acupressure is applied to specific points on the body. When the client starts to surrender and flow with the water, it is difficult for the client to discern where the body ends and the water begins.

    A Watsu session is an exchange of energy between the practitioner and the client. It is often as gratifying to give Watsu as it is to receive. The slow rhythmic, fluid movement induces calm in both client and practitioner and a feeling of freedom from unwanted tension. Breathing becomes slower and deeper. With the body buoyant and with ears underwater listening to soothing liquid sounds, it is only a matter of time before mind and body start to unwind and the client enters a world where nothing is asked or expected of him or her.

    Watsu is effective in treating a wide variety of conditions including fibromyalgia (chronic pain in muscles and soft tissues surrounding joints), multiple sclerosis, sports injuries and other joint and muscle conditions. For many sufferers of chronic pain, a Watsu session can often give them their first good night's sleep. Watsu allows the client to experience complete relaxation with a total release of muscle tension and stress. With a new understanding of what it feels like to be relaxed, the client can work toward controlling stress and regaining that feeling outside of the session.

    Pregnant women also derive special pleasure from Watsu, since the warm water relaxes lower back tension and soothes away pain and stiffness. One woman who was eight months pregnant and frequently had Watsu sessions described her experience as a special time when her body felt light, free from discomfort and at peace. The feeling was like “floating on a cloud,” she said.

    A Watsu session is a slice of time when one can experience a unique disconnection with the outside world. It is a period when time has no relevance, and the focus becomes inward as external stimuli are removed. Watsu is beneficial for all ages, for the young and the not-so-young, and for those of all physical abilities. The profound Watsu experience is like no other.

Stephanie Dutton is a Watsu and Ai Chi Practitioner, who completed her Watsu training with Harold Dull. She also is a Specialized Swimming Teacher, working internationally. Stephanie offers education, training and water therapy. Water Shiatsu (Watsu) and other aquatic programs are available at Lifeworks of Southwest General in Middleburg Heights or can be arranged at your own facility provided the pool meets the requirements. For more information, email Stephanie@enjoythewater.com, call (440) 292 6776 or visit www.enjoythewater.com.

Photo by Jerry Kohl.