What the Watsu?

We’ve given you an insider’s look at the farm-to-table massage, the couple’s massage and the lymphatic drainage massage, and now we want to touch on a different type of offering from the world of massage. Have you ever skimmed a spa menu and wondered what the word “watsu” was all about? We’re here to share with you the mystery of what this profound spa experience entails.

Our take on the watsu technique? Hands down, this is one relaxing treatment.

Here’s the Rub
Watsu is a two-pronged combo, stemming from “water” and “shiatsu.” The massage treatment takes place in a warm pool, in which the therapist supports you as you float, cradling you with one arm under your knees and the other around your back.

This type of aquatic massage is designed to be something of a dance, as your therapist twirls and sways you through the water while administering rhythmic movements, stretches and techniques like pressure-point massage.

The Benefits of Watsu

Those in need of a bit of gentle kneading will enjoy this massage because it’s designed to relieve stress, muscle tension and pain. Not only is this treatment believed to have a healing physical effect, it fosters a spiritual effect as well. Being immersed in water stimulates deep relaxation for mind and body, and the massage also promotes trust and connectivity, as you will rely completely on your therapist who is holding you. Relax, knowing you’re in good hands.

Where’s the Watsu?

Watsu is actually more common than you may think — chances are, a spa near you will offer it. Check out these locations that list watsu on their menu; we’ve highlighted just a few spa getaways below.

Bagni di Pisa Medical Spa Resort – Pisa, Italy

Select Canyon Ranch locations nationwide

Emerson Resort & Spa – Mount Tremper, New York

Golden Door Spa – Escondido, California

Kurotel Longevity Center and Spa – Gramado – RS, Brazil

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Mii amo, a destination spa at Enchantment – Sedona, Arizona

Miraval Arizona – Tucson, Arizona

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa – Paradise Valley, Arizona

Sha Wellness Clinic – Alicante, Spain

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort – Alajuela, Costa Rica

Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort – Grosseto, Italy

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa – Sonoma, California

6 comments on “What the Watsu?”

1. I’ve never heard of Watsu massage before, but I’m intrigued. Wish I were in Sonoma, Grosseto or any of the other wonderful places you listed. How does this modality help people in need of kneading if no actual kneading takes place?

2. Please see http://www.watsu.com/practitioners.html for a list of practitioners and to easily locate one in your area. WATSU was developed by Harold Dull, whom is still teaching. (I am a mobile Watsu therapist whom travels to Spas, contracting out for seasonal WATSU offerings and help Spas incorporate WATSU as a developer and consultant)

3. Thank you for your comment! We agree — watsu is truly an intriguing spa treatment. Although there is technically no rolling with the hands as some think of kneading, there is the sense of “to stretch” or “to press,” as some variations of watsu use pressure-point massage techniques.

4. How Watsu Therapy Affects our Body & Mind?
   http://www.aqua4balance.com/Therapy-and-Bodywork/watsu-therapy/how-watsu-therapy-affects-our-body-and-mind.html

5. Watsu Potential Benefits for the Spine
   http://www.aqua4balance.com/Therapy-and-Bodywork/watsu-therapy/watsu-benefits-for-the-spine.html

6. Thanks for this post about watsu. It sounds like an interesting massage technique.