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Watsu (relaxation, stretching and flexibility in water)
A form of aquatic relaxation.
Watsu was developed in the USA in the early 80s and focuses on stretching and strengthening muscles, increasing flexibility and range of motion, and deep relaxation in water.
Like hydrotherapy, it can be used to manage long-term pain for conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. However, it is also very popular as a form of deep relaxation for those with stress or anxiety or who simply enjoy relaxation therapies.
Physiotherapists and massage therapists worldwide use Watsu to:
- reduce stress and anxiety
- improve breathing and sleep patterns
- release toxins
- increase energy
- release emotional stress
- improve circulation
- decrease pain and fatigue
- increase range of motion
- improve body awareness
- normalise muscle tone
- decrease muscle guarding and tension
- increase lymphatic circulation
It can be especially helpful when managing:
- arthritis
- rheumatism
- fibromyalgia
- anxiety
Spire Hartswood Hospital has it's own hydrotherapy pool and is the only place in Essex to offer Watsu treatment – a form of aquatic relaxation.
Sessions last 20 minutes though previous patients have commented that it feels much longer due to the deep level of relaxation achieved.