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

...is a leading aquatic bodyworker with an established practice in the UK and abroad, who has pioneered Watsu in this country. She became a Watsu Practitioner in 1996 & an Instructor in 1999. She studied with Harold Dull, the originator of Watsu and several leading practitioners in California, Hawaii and Italy. 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 and Tai Chi. 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"

Currently she is working out of Nirvana Spa in Berkshire and Chiva Som Health Resort in Thailand. She has also led workshops and trainings for organisations such as British Airways and Skyros Holistic Holidays in Greece. Physiotherapists and Hydrotherapists have most recently benefitted from her Basic Watsu Training.