Watsu is the type of bodywork that uses warm pool water in order to properly stretch, heal and relieve the body of a client from various conditions that hinder a healthy constitution. The water should be around 35 degree Celsius or 95 degree Fahrenheit in order to fully achieve best result. The warmth of the water also helps the body to relax by allowing the muscles to loosen up in preparation for the stretching and bodywork techniques.

Watsu was invented by Harold Dull in the early 1980s during one of his experiments with Zen shiatsu which was done in a pool with his students. He was then the director of the Harbin School of Shiatsu and Massage when Watsu was developed and known as what we enjoy today. Zen shiatsu was associated with the water therapy in order to improve its effects to the health and body of the client.

The water therapy is designed for the treatment of chronic pain conditions all over the body. Musculoskeletal pains can be treated with stretching and massage therapy while in the pool water. Significant results after the session can be felt which makes the therapy quite popular and a choice when it comes to muscle pain relief. The therapy is also great for the rehabilitation of injuries and surgeries as it doesn’t involve the use of pressure during the therapy. The advantage of making the client float gives the therapist a helping hand in doing various stretching and shiatsu techniques.

Aside from the treatment and correction of various problems including arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke, fibromyalgia, post surgeries and other disorders, watsu can be taken as a form of relaxation therapy. The mere feeling of floating on the water and being stretched and massaged is a luxurious way of enjoying an afternoon from work. Anyone can enjoy the soothing and calming effects of this therapy as it is quite safe to be taken without the fear for risks and contraindications.

During a watsu therapy session, the massage therapist supports the body of the patient while in the water as he rocks the body in gentle stretching positions. The passive movement of the body helps a lot in joint mobilizations which is effective in improving the range of mobility and flexibility of the moving parts of the body. It also helps in strengthening the joints, preventing friction of the joints, and the weakening of the muscle tissues surrounding it. The therapy session is also filled with silent and still moments in order for the body of the patient to achieve the feeling of weightlessness which can’t be attained if done on land.

The risk of drowning or drinking too much water may be a disadvantage to the client if the professional service of a certified watsu massage therapist is not taken. Contagious skin problems are also risky and should not be given this type of treatment in order to contain the disease. Contact your doctor in order to make sure whether the therapy is safe for you or it’s the type you should stay away from.

Author Bio: I write for TIR Massage Stone about hot stone massage and massage stone therapy including hot and cold applications.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
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