Origins of Watsu
Watsu (Water Shiatsu) began in 1980 when Harold Dull started floating people in Harbin's warm pool while applying the stretches and principles of the Zen Shiatsu he had studied in Japan. Since then, Watsu has evolved into an entire category of treatments under the umbrella of Aquatic Bodywork. Watsu and Waterdance are the two most popular aquatic modalities practiced at Harbin, but you can find other variations around the world.
Basic Principles
The support of water takes weight off the vertebrae and allows the spine to be moved in ways impossible on land. Gentle, gradual twists and pulls relieve the pressure a rigid spine places on nerves and helps undo any dysfunctioning this pressure can cause to the organs serviced by those nerves. The Watsu receiver experiences greater flexibility and freedom.
Similarly, during Watsu a range of emotions can come up and be released into the process of continuous flow. This reprograms receivers to face life out of the water with greater equanimity and flexibility. Many come out of a Watsu saying they were more relaxed than they have ever been. Some say it was one of the most powerful experiences in their life.
“Another principle of Zen Shiatsu, that of connecting with the breath, takes on a new dimension in Watsu,” said Harold. “On land, the breathing is coordinated with leaning into points. In water, our most basic move is the Water Breath Dance, in which we float someone in our arms and let them sink a little as they breathe out and let the water lift us as we both breathe in.” Repeated over and over at the beginning of a Watsu, this “Water Breath Dance” creates a connection that can be carried into all the stretches and moves throughout the session.
Multiple Benefits
The lasting benefits of Watsu have been confirmed by many reports and studies. Today, in more than 40 countries, Watsu is used by professional bodyworkers, physical therapists, psychologists, as well as the general public, Watsu and other water modalities are proving to be effective with chronic pain as well as a widening range of conditions.
Stop by the Harbin Spa Services office (or call in advance of your visit) to ask questions, view practitioner profiles, and consider if the incredible benefits of Aquatic Bodywork are for you.
