What is WATSU?

WATSU® is a therapeutic practice combining elements of massage and aquatic therapy and was developed by Harold Dull during the late ’80s. It takes place in 34 degrees Celsius warm water, typically in an indoor pool. During a WATSU® session, a skilled practitioner employs gentle, rhythmical, gliding movements and stretches to create a profoundly relaxing and healing experience.

The language of our body is movement and the one thing we all have in common is that we entered this world through water as we developed and grew in the womb. Being floated in warm water takes us back to the feeling of suspension, weightlessness and being held by buoyancy, which we knew so well before birth and prior to our senses being overwhelmed by the harshness of this world.

Our nervous systems are currently chronically overwhelmed and overstimulated, which compromises our innate healing abilities. In order for our bodies to heal, restore and regenerate, we have to return to a regulated state – one where we feel safe and connected to others.

Our bodies remember up to 80 per cent of what happens to us, whilst our brain recalls only up to 20 per cent.

During a WATSU® session one’s body can access and express and release such body memories and allow for deep releases without the mind having to make sense, understand or explain it.

When you want to ease the stress, trauma and the busyness of rushing through life – imagine your body being comforted by warm water whilst a trained, qualified and skilled practitioner supports, guides and listens to exactly what your body is asking for in the moment, whether it is a stretch, a moment of stillness, a sense of dancing or swinging, a wave of deeply held emotion, a sense of playfulness, of joy or deep grieving – no matter what the story is your body is telling, the practitioner is there to listen, support and allow the releases.
Common effects after a WATSU® session are improved sleep (deeper and more restful), improved digestion, deeper breathing, improved mobility and flexibility. Regular treatments also have positive effects on blood pressure and weight. These benefits are due to the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system.

Who would benefit? If you have a body and you like water you can benefit!
This modality can be utilised as a form of relaxation or rehabilitation and the client’s requirements will determine the skill set required by the practitioner. Each Certified WATSU® practitioner works within the scope of their training and qualifications. I.e. if you are dealing with injuries/pain/disability or recovering post-surgery/illness or trauma, you will look for a WATSU® practitioner who is also a qualified medical health practitioner such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

If you have no injuries and are looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, you can find any WATSU® practitioner.

WATSU® training is an International Certification process and is regulated by WABA (Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association). WATSU® training is offered in South Africa by the only WATSU® instructor in Africa, Adele Pudney.
To find a practitioner – visit www.watsusa.co.za
If you are interested in becoming a practitioner.
E-mail: course@watsusa.co.za