WATSU : WHAT IS IT?

WATer ShiatSU is a profoundly relaxing aquatic movement therapy based on Zen Shiatsu, where the emphasis is on stretching the body. This is an effective way of mobilising "Chi" ( Life Force ) through the "Meridians" ( lines of energy in the body) Warm water offers a unique & ideal medium for freeing energy. The lightness of the body in water allows the practitioner to float the recipients, to free the spinal vertebrae, rotate joint articulations and elongate muscles in ways not possible on land.

These Rhythmic "dance like" movements are performed in harmony with the breath to inspire the natural regeneration of mind, body and spirit. One thing that stands out about Watsu that makes it different from so many forms of bodywork is the power of being held closely and non-sexually. This is more acceptable in a water environment and can heal deep wounds of separation. It connects us to something beyond the physical as deep feelings of nurturance and safety allow for a profound and holistic bodywork experience that is like no other.

SOME OF WATSU'S CLINICALLY PROVEN BENEFITS.

Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists and other bodywork practitioners worldwide use it for:

- reducing stress & anxiety
- decreasing muscle guarding & tension
- decreasing pain & fatigue
- increasing energy
- increasing range of motion
- increasing circulation
- improving breathing patterns
- normalising tone
- improving body awareness
- improving sleep patterns
- stimulating the lymphatic system to release toxins & cleanse the body
- discovering & releasing emotional stress

SPAS

It has been speculated that SPA stands for SALUS PER AQUAM in Latin, HEALING THROUGH WATER. This is a timely millennium reminder of the potential for warm water based therapies such as Watsu as Spas become MULTI FUNCTIONAL centres for Health. Jacuzzis could be built large enough to accommodate such activities and hydrotherapy pools are already essential additions to the Health club culture.

HILARY AUSTIN, Cert Ed, MSTAT, WABA, RCST

...is a one of the UK's leading Watsu Therapists having completed over 1300 hours of Watsu and other aquatic training. She is registered with WABA - The Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association and, as the first Watsu Instructor in the UK, teaches in hospitals, hospices, spas and hydrotherapy units around the country and the world.

Her background as an experienced Alexander Technique teacher brings a grace and presence to her work augmented by a sound knowledge of body mechanics, developmental patterns, meditation, yoga and Craniosacral Therapy. As a qualified Waterdance practitioner she is also able to offer underwater movement sessions (client wears a noseclip)

"I welcome the opportunity for the public to experience the joy of freedom in aquatic movement and flow. I see water as the healing medium for the millennium"

She has worked out of Nirvana Spa in Berkshire, The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath, Chiva Som Health Resort in Thailand (where she introduced Watsu), Six Senses Spas in Soneva Fushi, The Maldives and Canary Wharf in London. She has also led workshops and trainings for organisations such as British Airways, Skyros Holistic Holidays in Greece and The Shaw Method Swimming Diploma Course.

Most recently she has been initiated in India in a subtle relaxation method, which has neurological benefits - quietening the mind and opening the heart. She will begin and end her sessions with this Oneness Experience.

Hilary says, "..This is healing at profound levels. Fluid is the ground substance of all the cells of the body and mind. The cells recognise this unity in the fluid environment of water based therapies. We are coming home. Just lie back and do nothing!"