I had the most incredible experience today receiving a Watsu Therapy session from Leigh Downing at Austin Watsu. My best guess is that the term Watsu comes from a hybrid term of water + shiatsu because that’s basically what it is - an amazing massage while floating in a 94-96 degree pool of water.
I first learned of this healing modality when I was at Sol Wellness and asked why they had a large above ground pool. I was immediately intrigued and knew I had to try it.
This is powerful work for a number of reasons: 1) In Traditional Chinese Medicine, water is linked with the Kidney system which is related to fear, fight/flight, and our fundamental essence. Healing is essentially supercharged when you’re in water. 2) being in warm water while being held by a skilled and loving practitioner can heal traumas that we have no words for - it’s a bit like a rebirthing from our experiences within the womb and beyond. 3) the massage is even more intimate because you are essentially being cradled and moved around in a kind of aquatic dance during the session. It is tender, loving, effective, and truly beautiful.
Leigh is amazing. She is calm, competent and immediately creates an atmosphere of trust. My body was able to relax, my mind was able to calm and I could fully release into the experience. Often, when our brain’s get out of the way, the body can begin to naturally heal itself using it’s innate wisdom.
The session was easy to book via text (512-507-6208 or austinwatsu@gmail.com) and all you need to bring is a bathingsuit and towel. I arrived a bit early to change and fill out the short intake paperwork. Leigh and I chatted a bit about my goals and she explained the process to me. There was no sense of rushing and she is a deep listener. I got in the water and she walked me through the steps - you get these floaty things attached to your legs to help them float and then she uses a combo of her arms and a floating head rest to support your head. She has ear plugs available, but know it’s kind of hard to hear through them - there isn’t much talking involved anyway though. There was some stretching, some massage, and a variety of movements around the pool. I had my eyes closed the entire time and felt like time and space were suspended.
GO THERE for self care. It was a sacred space and I am already looking to going back.
xo,
Jenna