Hydrotherapy, a combination of “Water Shiatsu,” is a specialised form of aquatic bodywork therapy that combines elements of massage, joint mobilisation, Shiatsu, and muscle stretching. It is typically conducted in a warm water pool at approximately 35°C, enriched with magnesium salts. This therapy leverages the buoyancy of water to create a state of relative weightlessness, which reduces pressure on the vertebrae and allows for unique spinal movements not possible on land.
The history of hydrotherapy dates back to the early 1980s when it was developed by Harold Dull at Harbin Hot Springs in Northern California. An American aquatic bodyworker and poet, Dull adapted Zen Shiatsu in warm-water pools. He experimented with floating people in the warm water, incorporating breathing patterns, meditative presence, and meridian stretches into his sessions.
- Warm magnesium pool for deep relaxation and pain relief
- Alleviates chronic pain by reducing pressure on joints and spinal nerves
- Improved flexibility
- Rehabilitation support
- Reduces stress
- Reduces anxiety
- Aids in injury rehabilitation
- Touch, warmth, and the aquatic environment provide therapeutic benefits for mental health.
- Increases flexibility and mobility for those with musculoskeletal conditions
- Emotional support
- Positive reaction to the energy of water
- Empathy of the practitioner through a personal “water dance” with minimal interruption and maximum connection, encouraging complete trust for emotional surrender and mental support
- Encourages revelatory release of emotions
At Chivitr, hydrotherapy is one of the most popular treatments offered by Sarah Whitcher and founder, Or. It is conducted in a purpose-built warm magnesium salted pool, combining massage, joint mobilisation, Shiatsu, and muscle stretching. The effects include a very gentle yet deep stretching, a release of muscular and joint restrictions, and a state of deep relaxation, which encourages the release of stress and tension. Chivitr’s hydrotherapy sessions are designed to improve mobility and flexibility and be beneficial in chronic pain syndromes, making it a sought-after therapy among guests seeking holistic wellness experiences.
One of our long-stay guests, Isabelle, shared her experience, “At first, I felt a bit anxious about reliving this experience, but at the same time, I wanted to be there. This time, there were no relaxation movements or exercises before starting. Or immediately equipped me with floaters, earplugs, and an eye mask. Very quickly, I was plunged into darkness, with only the distant sound of soft music reaching my ears. As soon as my head touched the water, I felt a familiar sensation, as if I were in my own little bubble. After all, this had been my refuge for years. Water is my element—I feel good in it. Or started with gentle movements on my hands, arms, and shoulders. It was very pleasant. I really liked what was happening. The contact was constant and reassuring. My arms relaxed. Then came my feet, my legs… just as soothing.
When Or touched my head, her golden fingers sent warmth through my skull. It was a comforting, enveloping sensation. Then she worked on my torso and back. I loved it. At one point, a vertebra cracked. It was surprising but pleasant. When the exercises ended, I felt weightless. Instinctively, I curled up against Or. I became a fetus again in my mother’s womb. But this time, it was different. The first time, I had felt nauseous. Now, I felt serene. I could sense myself growing, blossoming. It was a gentle, soothing rebirth. I no longer felt tossed around like before. I was okay. I was still in contact with Or at the level of my head. My hands came together on their own. At that moment, words came to me: I am myself. I am free. I can rely on myself. Or slowly released the floaters, bringing me back to myself gently. Then she held me in her arms. I was happy. Happy to hold her tight. Happy, simply”.