I took a basic watsu training class this past weekend, spending the better part of Saturday and Sunday in a 95-degree shallow pool with five other women, who were also taking the course. I didn’t know much about watsu, other than Cole’s aquatic therapist was also learning it and thought it would be useful for me to learn the basics, so I could use it to help stretch and relax Cole at home in our pool. I love water, and I love learning new things – especially when it’s something that can help Cole.
I nervously showed up Saturday and met the others. Three were women who were already in the aquatic therapy business, wanting to expand their practices and knowledge, one was a mom, who is considering a watsu practice when her four kids are all in middle and high school, and me. We were joined on Sunday by a woman who does energy work already and has already completed about her watsu training.
The first half hour we learned about watsu and its benefits. Watsu is a form of aquatic therapy that combines muscle stretching, joint mobilization, and shiatsu massage. It’s done in chest deep warm water, where the “receiver” is continuously supported by the “giver” (or therapist) while back-floating. The receiver is rhythmically and passively cradled, moved, stretched and massaged by the giver and water. Watsu promotes deep relaxation and, in my experience, euphoria.
After the basic introduction we all got in the pool and watched part of a training video, so we could see an actual practice. Then we began learning the stance, moves and an understanding of the symbiosis of the process. We worked in pairs throughout the day, switching between being the giver and the receiver and working on different bodies. The better the giver can connect and adapt to each receiver (every body is different, not just in size but in flexibility and trust too) the better the experience will be. By the end of the day we had learned the entire basic sequence and practiced each element over and over. We all left feeling empowered and connected by the day.
Sunday we all reconvened and immediately got back in the pool. We were joined by a woman who does energy work and has already completed about half her watsu training hours. Having a sixth person allowed us to all work on our technique and practice with each other while our instructor could move through the pool and give us each more hands-on training and support. We all gave and received three full hours of treatment that day. It was amazing. Unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
There’s something almost spiritual in the practice of watsu. The relationship between the giver and receiver and water is harmonious in a way that at times you feel at one. Breath plays a part in watsu as it does yoga. There are quiet times when the giver synchs their breath to the receiver and as one you rise and fall slightly in the water as you breathe. There’s a deep sense of relaxation and rejuvenation resulting from the treatment and connectivity that transcends the treatment. I’m completely enthralled with watsu. I plan to take more training even if I don’t complete a program for certification. I just want to be able to give Cole (and other family and friends) the best experience I can.
I love your brain 