Overcome Anxiety, Trauma and PTSD with the Healing Benefits of Watsu and Aquatic Healingwork

Anxiety, stress, panic attacks, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can all have a significant impact on the body and mind, disrupting the body's natural balance and causing a range of physical and emotional symptoms.

Trauma refers to a deeply disturbing or distressing event that can have long-term effects on an individual's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This can include events such as natural disasters, accidents, abuse, and violence.

After experiencing trauma, it is common to experience symptoms of anxiety, such as fear, worry, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms are a natural response to the traumatic event and may resolve over time as the individual processes and recovers from the trauma.

However, in some cases, the symptoms of anxiety may persist or become more severe, leading to a diagnosis of PTSD. PTSD is a mental health disorder that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is characterized by ongoing symptoms of anxiety, such as flashbacks, avoidance of triggers, and hypervigilance, as well as other symptoms such as depression, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.

Finding effective ways to manage these conditions is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

What Effects does Trauma Cause to our Nervous System:

When the body experiences a traumatic event, it triggers a "fight or flight" response which activates the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for preparing the body for action, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate and releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol (Read about the 10 ways to Naturally Reduce Stress and Promote Stress Relief here).

While the fight or flight response is a natural and necessary survival mechanism, it's not meant to be sustained over long periods of time. When the body is in a constant state of fight or flight, it can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion, as well as a range of health issues.

In addition to activating the sympathetic nervous system, trauma can also disrupt the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating the body's rest and relaxation response. When the parasympathetic nervous system is disrupted, it can lead to difficulty sleeping, difficulty relaxing, and difficulty recovering from stress.

How can Watsu & Aquatic Healingwork Help?

One treatment that may be helpful in the management of anxiety, trauma, and PTSD is Watsu, also known as water Shiatsu. Watsu is a form of bodywork that involves gentle stretches and massages while floating in a warm pool. It has gained popularity in recent years as a method of relaxation and stress reduction, and it offers a variety of potential benefits for those who try it.

One of the primary benefits of Watsu and Aquatic Healingwork is its ability to reset the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for regulating the body's rest and relaxation response, and it's often disrupted in individuals with anxiety, trauma, or PTSD. By resetting the parasympathetic nervous system, Watsu can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can be beneficial for those dealing with these conditions.

In addition to resetting the parasympathetic nervous system, Watsu can also provide pain relief, improve sleep quality, improve circulation, and promote feelings of well-being. These additional benefits can also be helpful in the management of anxiety, trauma, and PTSD, as they can help to improve overall physical and mental health.

Watsu can be a particularly useful treatment for those with PTSD, as the relaxation and stress reduction provided by the treatment can help to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia. It's important to note, however, that Watsu should be performed by a trained professional and that individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen. Watsu may not be suitable for everyone, and it's important to consider any potential risks or contraindications before starting treatment.

Overall, Watsu can be a valuable tool for those looking to manage their anxiety, and resolve any trauma, and/or PTSD. Its relaxation and stress reduction effects can help to promote overall health and well-being, making it a treatment option worth considering for those dealing with these conditions.

If you're interested in exploring the potential benefits of Watsu for anxiety, trauma, and PTSD, we recommend speaking with a trained professional to determine if it is a suitable treatment option for you.

Gve us a call or book your appointment online today!

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