Have you spent time observing waves crashing against ocean rock, or been tumbled along by the rapids of a raging river? If so, you’ve certainly pondered the power of water in motion. But have you ever considered the soothing power of still water? Perhaps it crosses your mind as you slide into a bath after a long day at work or the backyard swimming pool during the hot days of summer. Our attraction to water is linked to the power that it holds over us. It can heighten our adrenaline or calm us, just as a mother soothes a child.

It was during my first encounter with Watsu at Canyon Ranch in Tucson that I began to understand that the real power of water is not found in its rushing current, but in its calming embrace. On the surface, this treatment is simply a moving massage conducted in the water: As you float in a therapeutic pool, a therapist supports you while using Shiatsu techniques and gently stretching your body.

It can be a surprisingly profound experience. Many guests have told me that Watsu is the most powerful thing they’ve encountered at Canyon Ranch. Watsu has effects on many different levels, but its key benefit is that it creates a meditative space where you reintroduce yourself to the most important person in your life…you.

It’s different for each person. For some, it’s above all an exercise in trust. They need to find within themselves the faith that they will be safe in the water, or that the therapist, holding their body, is not judging them in their swimsuit. Others experience it as a back-to-the-womb awakening. They feel protected, peaceful and comforted as they move free of gravity and without worry. In this meditative state, they are secure and confident. My own experiences with Watsu are like this. I frequently meditate during the service and find myself in a dream state, swimming with my mother.

Just as everyone’s experience is an accumulation of their life story at that moment, everyone’s Watsu experience will play out differently. Do you need to rejuvenate your spirit and say “hello” to your authentic self? Do you want to explore a different form of meditation – or even just relax? Are you are at a place of life transformation and change? Maybe experiencing the calming embrace of water in a very special way is just what you seek. I would love to hear your thoughts and Watsu stories. Perhaps, together, we can learn more about the real power of water.

What I want to say about my experience of Watsu in April, 2007 as a Healthy Heart week participant was that I was so glad I did it. It was the last thing I did really. I had one little pampering thing left after Watsu. It left me so stress free, so relaxed, in a state I have not been in ever. I live in the Washington, DC area and Watsu just isn't available locally which is a shame. I could really use Watsu in my daily life. I think it would alter my long term outlook on life, health, etc. I know one of my fellow Healthy Heart week participants did not like Watsu at all so it is different for everyone. But I felt so weightless, so relaxed, so at peace, so comfortable. It is so much better than a lot of other therapies, in my opinion, including medications. It was a wonderful time and a wonderful feeling. I long for Watsu every single day now. No one I talk to here has ever heard of it. I don't think most people in this area would know what to make of it. It was wonderful for me.

Marina...thank you for your insightful reflections and for sharing your Watsu experience. I hope you are able to fulfill your longings for Watsu soon :) I knew one guest of mine that didn't have Watsu in their area either and ended up getting certified as a Watsu provider and started doing Watsu at their local YMCA! Who knows what directions our lives take when we experience such powerful work. All the best to you!