What is Watsu?

Watsu is a type of bodywork performed in a pool of water, rather than on a more traditional mat or massage table. The name is a nod to Shiatsu, which is integrated into the practice. It incorporates stretching, massage, joint mobilization, breathing exercises, and dance with Shiatsu to relax the body and ease the mind. This type of bodywork is recommended for a wide range of people including older individuals because it is gentle and nurturing, far less invasive than some other massage techniques such as myofascial release or deep tissue.

This technique was developed in 1980 by Harold Dull, who was curious to know how Shiatsu might feel underwater. Already a well established Zen Shiatsu instructor, Dull began taking his students into warm pools for massage sessions, and realized that the new bodywork technique had healing potential. Calling it Watsu, he developed a school in Middletown, California, which has certified over 5,000 practitioners. The school has a state of the art complex that incorporates many unique architectural elements.

To become a certified Watsu therapist, a person must first certify to be a regular massage therapist. Training programs in massage therapy range from simple 200 hour programs to year long residential intensives, and vary widely in cost as well. After becoming a massage therapist, additional schooling can be undertaken at a Watsu school. In addition to massage techniques, practitioners also have to be experienced in underwater environments, as well as being comfortable with human anatomy. Many programs take approximately 500 hours to complete.

During a Watsu session, the therapist and client wear clothing appropriate for submersion. The therapist holds and supports the client while working with him or her. The unique muscle stretching and bodywork that are a part of the session can be beneficial for patients with fibromyalgia and other nerve conditions. In addition, it can free up tense muscles and increase mobility. For this reason, it is commonly recommended as a form of hydrotherapy for physically limited patients.

Sessions can be very intense. For this reason, most Watsu therapists will not accept clients who are new to massage. The sense of trust and surrender involved in a Watsu treatment can be overwhelming for individuals who have not experienced conventional massage.