Imagine floating nearly weightless, being gently supported as you relax in a pool of very warm water. Slow stretches, movements and bodywork are done in the water, with dim or natural lighting and, sometimes, music.

WATSU sessions are given in an indoor pool. The practitioner and receiver both wear swimming attire. The water is about 4 feet deep and kept at a temperature of 97 degrees. The receiver floats on their back, supported by the therapist’s arms and sometimes, a couple of small floats. The person receiving WATSU is asked to just let go; become a noodle. Many times the receiver will become so relaxed that they fall asleep during a session in the pool.

WATSU is great for all ages. Babies will sleep better and be more relaxed and good-natured with WATSU. Young children will also be more calm, happy and at ease after experiencing a few sessions. The stress, anxiety and everyday wear and tear on a body that all of us experience, can be reduced and left behind in the pool. Pain patients will find their pain lessened and their movements freer after WATSU sessions. Emotional and psychological pain tends to melt into the water and become more manageable for those people receiving WATSU and hands on therapy.

The nature of water is very soothing and healing. The warm water loosens muscles and tissue; movement and stretching becomes much easier and more comfortable than on land. The spine and joints, while being supported by the warm water will decompress, unwind and become freer in the liquid environment. The hydrostatic pressure of water allows for deeper work without the deep pressure that is needed on land. In a pool, during WATSU, the therapist can access and work on the body in ways unlike a massage table.

The quietness, gentleness and uniqueness of the water environment, sometimes has no words to describe it. There is a feeling and a sense of well-being and peace, a balance of energy and relaxation that one has, after WATSU, that is unique to the work.