Watsu: Water Massage

Water is a symbol of relaxation and peace for many individuals and cultures. Watching the gently rolling waves of the ocean from a canoe or from the beach can inspire tranquility, as can the placid surface of a lake. Water is also a vital part of our lives as human beings, which gives it special significance.

Massage is also relaxing, but when combined with water, it can be even more profound. Watsu, designed by a Zen Shiatsu therapist named Harold Dull in the early 1980's, is a combination of the words water and shiatsu. It was one of the least commonly known forms of massage therapy, but it is becoming more popular in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Australia.

Since people are able to float in water, they are not susceptible to gravity, which makes certain massage and stretching exercises possible while they are not possible on land. Since different movements are used, it is not considered traditional Shiatsu, but it combines the major principles of the same: relaxation, relief of tension and accupressure.The therapist is able to rotate, flex and move muscles in ways that are not possible on a massage table, which results in a fuller, more relaxing massage.

Many of the movements used in Watsu are similar to those seen in other water exercises. Performed in an indoor pool of warm water, it looks almost like a dance, and the movements are very fluid. There should never be a time during Watsu when the patient is tense or rigid; the therapist controls the movements of the body, thus inviting complete relaxation. The water allows for freedom of the spinal vertebrae, wide rotation of the joints and maximum elongation of the muscles. The therapist will also incorporate set breathing patterns in order to heighten the sense of self awareness.