AQUATIC THERAPY

Watsu®

Specific method of aquatic therapy characterized by one-on-one sessions in which a Practitioner gently cradles, moves, stretches, and massages Receiver in warm water, with nose and mouth above water surface; for relaxation, recreation, personal growth, and therapy; originally developed by Harold Dull at Harbin Hot Springs.

Watsu® promotes a deep state of relaxation with drastic changes in the Autonomic Nervous System. Through quieting the Sympathetic Nervous System and enhancing the Parasympathetic Nervous System, Watsu® has profound effects on the neuromuscular, cardiovascular, mesenteric, respiratory, and fascial systems.

You can consult the scientific evidence in the corresponding section of our website.

Craniosacral Therapy in Water™

Based on the application of WATSU® therapy, craniosacral therapy (CST), manual therapy, and Myofascial Induction Therapy (MIT)® in the aquatic environment, CST in Water™ facilitates interoception, and produces local and systemic effects aimed at improving and restoring the overall health of the patient. This concept aims to promote the proper functioning of the craniosacral system, release the restrictions of connective tissue, and recover the hydrodynamic balance of the body.

Listening to the subtlest physiological rhythms, facilitating spontaneous movements and body tendencies, observing the needs, respecting the limits, and framing the therapeutic intervention from an attitude of being with the patient, and not doing to the patient.

Interoceptive awareness of the patient, suspended and surrounded by water, guides the process, and is followed by the therapist’s facilitation.

Ai Chi®

i Chi® is an efficient aquatic movement and relaxation program that increases oxygen and calorie consumption simply by correct form and positioning in the water. It is also a perfect relaxation technique for highly stressed and challenged clients, and is ideal for implementing range of motion, balance, and mobility.

It has been created to help aquatic therapy professionals and clients enjoy the water in a fluid yet powerful progression. It can be used with groups or individually.

We work the Meridian Stretches that extends into the midline of the body. By increasing flexibility in the longitudinal axis of the body, one can improve posture and help maintain health because it brings the body and mind into a desirable balance. In addition, Meridian Stretches are much more effective in water, in weightless conditions created by buoyancy, than on land under gravity.

The core of Ai Chi® is breathing. The deep diaphragmatic breathing of Ai Chi® can strengthen the parasympathetic system and balance the autonomic nervous system.

Halliwick®

Halliwick® is a concept, originally developed to teach patients with (physical) disabilities to swim and to be independent in the water. The concept was founded by James McMillan, a fluid mechanics engineer. His main goals were participation and independence.

The mechanical properties of water as a fluid are the basis of intervention techniques.

Halliwick® is mainly used in neurorehabilitation and pediatrics.