Spa Therapies Of New Asia
Watsu Massage:
Watsu, derived from the words ‘water’ and ‘shiatsu’, is a water-based form of shiatsu – a Japanese massage that balances and stimulates energy flow in the meridians. Devised by Harold Dull in 1980, watsu is essentially shiatsu conducted in chest-high warm water. After training in the techniques of shiatsu in Japan, Dull had returned to his home in California where he began conducting the first watsu sessions in hot springs. Watsu is more than just a massage in water – it also involves gentle cradling and exercises. Because it is carried out in water, you will enjoy greater flexibility and be able to move into different massage positions that might have been virtually impossible had the massage been done on a floormat or a bed. The water also serves to support your body weight as you lie floating on your back. Indeed being in water has the effect of ‘reducing’ your body weight by as much as 90 per cent, which in turn eases pressure on the spine. Exercising in water is also beneficial as the buoyancy effect of the water protects your joints from injury while the water pressure creates resistance making your muscles work harder. Watsu is particularly suitable for pregnant women and people suffering from muscular dysfunction and joint problems such as arthritis. Today, teachers and practitioners of watsu can be found in many countries and are certified by the Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association.
