LINK
MEDIA
SHOP
TRAINING
Information on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. You should not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication or other treatment.
©Copyright 2020 all rights reserved - Active Support Co., Ltd. - www.healingwaterdance.com
HealingWaterDance™, Watsu®, Aquawellness and WaterDance™ are various modalities of Aquatic Bodywork given in a warm water pool (35° C). With a complete sense of presence and attention, the therapist moves, folds, stretches, and massages the client's floating body on the surface, inducing a profound state of both physical and mental relaxation. Depending on the choice of the client, a session can also include an underwater part (with nose clip), which offers a unique experience of being moved under water.
In water, where the buoyancy lifts our body every time we breathe, our whole body breathes. We begin a HealingWaterDance™ session doing nothing, settling into the water, holding a client with one arm under their head, the other arm under their body. When we feel them getting lighter on that arm as they breathe, the therapist's breath is drawn up. Then, we drop back into the emptiness at the bottom of the breath and do nothing. Being drawn up out of that emptiness again and again, up through our core in this waterbreath dance, engages our whole body and establishes a connection that continues through our moves and stretches born in that rhythm.
These Aquatic Bodywork modalities originated from Watsu®: below is a review of what it is and what are the benefits.
What is Watsu®?
Watsu is a form of water therapy, which is also called hydrotherapy. It involves stretches, massages, and acupressure in warm water.
The term "watsu" comes from the words "water" and "shiatsu." Shiatsu is a type of traditional Japanese massage that uses acupressure to promote relaxation. In Japanese, shiatsu means "finger pressure."
Watsu was created by Harold Dull, a massage therapist, in 1980. Dull observed that it was easier for his clients' muscles and tissues to relax in water. In turn, he found that shiatsu techniques were more effective when done in water.
Generally, Watsu therapy is used to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by a range of ailments. The idea is that the resistance of water soothes physical tension and encourages relaxation, which supports overall health.
How does it work?
Watsu therapy is done in a pool or hot tub. The water is heated to 35°C, which is close to the same temperature as your skin.
During Watsu, a therapist gently moves your body in water. This is known as passive hydrotherapy, because you don't need to actively perform the movements.
Your therapist is in the water with you. They move your body in specific motions, which may include:
• gentle twisting
• rocking or cradling
• stretching
• massaging pressure points
The goal is to release tightness in your muscle and fascia tissue. It's also meant to promote a healthy flow of energy, or qi.
Watsu is typically done in a peaceful setting to increase relaxation. Many Watsu therapists play soothing music during the session.
What is it used for?
As a therapeutic treatment, Watsu is used to alleviate pain and tension. People also use it to enhance physical movement and joint mobility.
It may provide relief for people with:
• muscle tension
• low back pain
• chronic pain
• fibromyalgia
• discomfort during pregnancy
• post-traumatic stress disorder
• anxiety
• depression
• sleep disorders
• stress-related conditions
• neurological conditions (like multiple sclerosis)
• spinal cord injury
• injury rehabilitation
What are the benefits?
Though Watsu has been practiced since 1980, it hasn't been extensively studied. To date, evidence-based benefits include:
Decreased pain
Research has found a positive correlation between Watsu and pain relief. In a small 2015 study, nine healthy pregnant women experienced lower pain levels after Watsu therapy. The researchers attributed this to the therapeutic effect of water immersion on joint impact.
A 2013 study found similar results. After completing 15 Watsu sessions, 12 people with fibromyalgia reported fewer symptoms of pain. In a 2019 study, a group of children with juvenile arthritis also experienced less pain after receiving Watsu
This might be explained by the effect of water on pain receptors, also called nociceptors. According to a 2019 review Trusted Source, the pressure and viscosity of water reduces stimulation of these receptors, which lowers pain perception.
The buoyancy of water also decreases the gravitational force on the muscles, promoting muscle relaxation. This results in lower pain levels.
Reduced anxiety
In general, pain increases anxiety. However, by managing pain, Watsu may help relieve anxiousness.
In a small 2014 case report, a person with temporomandibular disorders experienced lower anxiety levels after Watsu. The researchers associated this benefit with Watsu's beneficial impact on pain.
The link between pain and anxiety may also work in the opposite direction. According to the researchers, anxiety and stress can worsen pain perception, but relaxing treatments, like Watsu, could help improve perceived pain.
The pregnant women in the 2015 study mentioned earlier also experienced improved mood after completing Watsu.
Additionally, in a 2018 case report, a woman received Watsu as rehabilitation after a serious motorcycle accident. She experienced an "emotional release" after therapy, along with feeling more at peace with her body.
Although these findings are encouraging, it's important to note that these studies are very small. More research is needed to better understand the link between Watsu and anxiety.
Increased joint mobility
Like other types of water therapy, Watsu may help improve joint range of motion.
In the 2019 study mentioned above, 46 children with juvenile arthritis received either conventional hydrotherapy or Watsu. The researchers analyzed the participants' joint range of motion before and after therapy.
They didn't find statistically significant differences between the two treatments, suggesting that Watsu may have similar benefits to traditional hydrotherapy.
But the researchers also acknowledged that the active movements of conventional hydrotherapy may not be ideal for juvenile arthritis. The passiveness of Watsu, however, might provide better relief.
Although more studies are needed to explore how Watsu specifically helps joint mobility, hydrotherapy in general is recommended for improving joint range of motion.
Are there any side effects?
Watsu has some drawbacks. As a passive form of therapy, you can't actively move your body during treatment. You must be willing to let a therapist do it for you.
You'll also be in close contact with the therapist. For some, this might feel uncomfortable.
You should also avoid Watsu if you have:
• fever
• uncontrolled epilepsy
• serious cardiac problems
• open wounds
• skin infections
• serious urinary tract problems
• bowel incontinence
• respiratory disease
• allergy to pool chemicals
These conditions may be worsened or complicated by water therapy.
Your therapist should also take extra precautions if you have:
• osteoporosis
• spinal problems
• balance problems
If you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying Watsu. Many pregnant people like the gravity-relieving sensations of floating in water while carrying a baby, but your healthcare provider can confirm you're a good candidate for this type of therapy.
What does a typical Watsu session involve?
Your Watsu session will be customized to your specific condition. It will involve massages, stretches, and movements designed to alleviate your symptoms.
Although Watsu sessions will vary depending on specific needs, here's what you can typically expect during a session:
1. Your therapist might have you wear floating devices on your arms or legs.
2. You'll enter the water and float on your back. The back of your head and knees will typically rest in your therapist's forearms.
3. Your therapist will slowly rotate, moving your body in large circles.
4. Your therapist will alternate between extending their arms and drawing them in, moving you back and forth in the water as they do so.
5. Your therapist will extend your arms and legs in gentle, repetitive patterns. They might also bend, lift, or twist different parts of your body.
6. They may rest your head on their shoulder and move you in large circles.
7. Throughout the session, your therapist will massage pressure points on your body.
Usually, a single session lasts for about an hour.
Sources:
• Everything to Know About Watsu Therapy: https://www.healthline.com/health/watsu
• Barbosa GAS, et al. (2014). Effect of Watsu therapy on psychological aspects and quality of life of patients with temporomandibular disorder: case report. DOI: 10.1590/1981-86372014000300000122409
• Leite JRS, et al. (2013). Watsu therapy in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome. DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2013.11.424
• Schitter AM, et al. (2015). Effects of passive hydrotherapy WATSU (WaterShiatsu) in the third trimester of pregnancy: Results of controlled pilot study. DOI: 10.1155/2015/437650
• Schitter AM, et al. (2018). Passive hydrotherapy WATSU® for rehabilitation of an accident survivor: A prospective case report. DOI: 10.1159/000487768
• Watsu. (n.d.). nhpcanada.org/for-the-public/holistic-health-guide/index.html?char=W&id=73
What is Watsu®?
Watsu is a form of water therapy, which is also called hydrotherapy. It involves stretches, massages, and acupressure in warm water.
The term "watsu" comes from the words "water" and "shiatsu." Shiatsu is a type of traditional Japanese massage that uses acupressure to promote relaxation. In Japanese, shiatsu means "finger pressure."
Watsu was created by Harold Dull, a massage therapist, in 1980. Dull observed that it was easier for his clients' muscles and tissues to relax in water. In turn, he found that shiatsu techniques were more effective when done in water.
Generally, Watsu therapy is used to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by a range of ailments. The idea is that the resistance of water soothes physical tension and encourages relaxation, which supports overall health.
How does it work?
Watsu therapy is done in a pool or hot tub. The water is heated to 35°C, which is close to the same temperature as your skin.
During Watsu, a therapist gently moves your body in water. This is known as passive hydrotherapy, because you don't need to actively perform the movements.
Your therapist is in the water with you. They move your body in specific motions, which may include:
• gentle twisting
• rocking or cradling
• stretching
• massaging pressure points
The goal is to release tightness in your muscle and fascia tissue. It's also meant to promote a healthy flow of energy, or qi.
Watsu is typically done in a peaceful setting to increase relaxation. Many Watsu therapists play soothing music during the session.
What is it used for?
As a therapeutic treatment, Watsu is used to alleviate pain and tension. People also use it to enhance physical movement and joint mobility.
It may provide relief for people with:
• muscle tension
• low back pain
• chronic pain
• fibromyalgia
• discomfort during pregnancy
• post-traumatic stress disorder
• anxiety
• depression
• sleep disorders
• stress-related conditions
• neurological conditions (like multiple sclerosis)
• spinal cord injury
• injury rehabilitation
What are the benefits?
Though Watsu has been practiced since 1980, it hasn't been extensively studied. To date, evidence-based benefits include:
Decreased pain
Research has found a positive correlation between Watsu and pain relief. In a small 2015 study, nine healthy pregnant women experienced lower pain levels after Watsu therapy. The researchers attributed this to the therapeutic effect of water immersion on joint impact.
A 2013 study found similar results. After completing 15 Watsu sessions, 12 people with fibromyalgia reported fewer symptoms of pain. In a 2019 study, a group of children with juvenile arthritis also experienced less pain after receiving Watsu
This might be explained by the effect of water on pain receptors, also called nociceptors. According to a 2019 review Trusted Source, the pressure and viscosity of water reduces stimulation of these receptors, which lowers pain perception.
The buoyancy of water also decreases the gravitational force on the muscles, promoting muscle relaxation. This results in lower pain levels.
Reduced anxiety
In general, pain increases anxiety. However, by managing pain, Watsu may help relieve anxiousness.
In a small 2014 case report, a person with temporomandibular disorders experienced lower anxiety levels after Watsu. The researchers associated this benefit with Watsu's beneficial impact on pain.
The link between pain and anxiety may also work in the opposite direction. According to the researchers, anxiety and stress can worsen pain perception, but relaxing treatments, like Watsu, could help improve perceived pain.
The pregnant women in the 2015 study mentioned earlier also experienced improved mood after completing Watsu.
Additionally, in a 2018 case report, a woman received Watsu as rehabilitation after a serious motorcycle accident. She experienced an "emotional release" after therapy, along with feeling more at peace with her body.
Although these findings are encouraging, it's important to note that these studies are very small. More research is needed to better understand the link between Watsu and anxiety.
Increased joint mobility
Like other types of water therapy, Watsu may help improve joint range of motion.
In the 2019 study mentioned above, 46 children with juvenile arthritis received either conventional hydrotherapy or Watsu. The researchers analyzed the participants' joint range of motion before and after therapy.
They didn't find statistically significant differences between the two treatments, suggesting that Watsu may have similar benefits to traditional hydrotherapy.
But the researchers also acknowledged that the active movements of conventional hydrotherapy may not be ideal for juvenile arthritis. The passiveness of Watsu, however, might provide better relief.
Although more studies are needed to explore how Watsu specifically helps joint mobility, hydrotherapy in general is recommended for improving joint range of motion.
Are there any side effects?
Watsu has some drawbacks. As a passive form of therapy, you can't actively move your body during treatment. You must be willing to let a therapist do it for you.
You'll also be in close contact with the therapist. For some, this might feel uncomfortable.
You should also avoid Watsu if you have:
• fever
• uncontrolled epilepsy
• serious cardiac problems
• open wounds
• skin infections
• serious urinary tract problems
• bowel incontinence
• respiratory disease
• allergy to pool chemicals
These conditions may be worsened or complicated by water therapy.
Your therapist should also take extra precautions if you have:
• osteoporosis
• spinal problems
• balance problems
If you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying Watsu. Many pregnant people like the gravity-relieving sensations of floating in water while carrying a baby, but your healthcare provider can confirm you're a good candidate for this type of therapy.
What does a typical Watsu session involve?
Your Watsu session will be customized to your specific condition. It will involve massages, stretches, and movements designed to alleviate your symptoms.
Although Watsu sessions will vary depending on specific needs, here's what you can typically expect during a session:
1. Your therapist might have you wear floating devices on your arms or legs.
2. You'll enter the water and float on your back. The back of your head and knees will typically rest in your therapist's forearms.
3. Your therapist will slowly rotate, moving your body in large circles.
4. Your therapist will alternate between extending their arms and drawing them in, moving you back and forth in the water as they do so.
5. Your therapist will extend your arms and legs in gentle, repetitive patterns. They might also bend, lift, or twist different parts of your body.
6. They may rest your head on their shoulder and move you in large circles.
7. Throughout the session, your therapist will massage pressure points on your body.
Usually, a single session lasts for about an hour.
Sources:
• Everything to Know About Watsu Therapy: https://www.healthline.com/health/watsu
• Barbosa GAS, et al. (2014). Effect of Watsu therapy on psychological aspects and quality of life of patients with temporomandibular disorder: case report. DOI: 10.1590/1981-86372014000300000122409
• Leite JRS, et al. (2013). Watsu therapy in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome. DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2013.11.424
• Schitter AM, et al. (2015). Effects of passive hydrotherapy WATSU (WaterShiatsu) in the third trimester of pregnancy: Results of controlled pilot study. DOI: 10.1155/2015/437650
• Schitter AM, et al. (2018). Passive hydrotherapy WATSU® for rehabilitation of an accident survivor: A prospective case report. DOI: 10.1159/000487768
• Watsu. (n.d.). nhpcanada.org/for-the-public/holistic-health-guide/index.html?char=W&id=73
Breath Dance