Watsu
Sign in to savethumb Watsu is a form of aquatic bodywork used for deep relaxation and passive aquatic therapy. Watsu is characterized by one-on-one sessions in which a practitioner or therapist gently cradles, moves, stretches, and massages a receiver in chest-deep warm water.
Article
17 sectionsContents
- History and origins
- Technique
- Opening
- First position techniques
- Other positions and techniques
- Adapting Watsu for special needs
- Training and certification
- Health effects
- Physiological effects
- Psychological effects
- Applications
- General use
- Orthopedic and neurologic rehabilitation
- Psychological rehabilitation
- Precautions
- See also
- References
thumb Watsu is a form of aquatic bodywork used for deep relaxation and passive aquatic therapy. Watsu is characterized by one-on-one sessions in which a practitioner or therapist gently cradles, moves, stretches, and massages a receiver in chest-deep warm water.
Watsu, originally developed by Harold Dull at Harbin Hot Springs, California, in the early 1980s, combines elements of muscle stretching, joint mobilization, massage, Shiatsu, and dance, performed in chest-deep warm water (around 35°C = 95°F). The receiver is continuously supported by a practitioner or therapist while being backfloated, rhythmically cradled, moved, stretched, and massaged.