Watsu / Janzu Session by the Pool: Aquatic Healing for Body and Soul
- Nico Rossi
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
✨ Introduction to Watsu / Janzu session by the pool
A Watsu Session by the Pool (also known as Janzu or Aguahara) is a deeply restorative aquatic healing practice where water, breath, and movement merge to guide you into profound relaxation.
Floating effortlessly in warm water, supported by a practitioner, you are gently moved through flowing sequences that help your body release stored tension and your mind let go of stress.
At Lunita Jungle Retreat near Cancún, this practice becomes a unique experience at Lunita retreat center Cancún, amplified by a serene poolside setting and sacred retreat environment.
🌊 What Is a Watsu (Janzu) Session?
Watsu (short for “Water Shiatsu”) originated in the 1980s as a form of aquatic bodywork combining gentle stretches, movement, and massage techniques in warm water.
Janzu has roots in aquatic healing traditions from Mexico, emphasizing surrender, fluidity, and energetic release.
Aguahara is another variation, with influences from contemporary aquatic therapies and intuitive flow.
Though each name carries nuance, the essence is the same: healing through water, surrender, and trust.
🔬 How Does It Work?
Water immersion reduces stress hormones.
Warm-water therapy decreases cortisol levels and supports parasympathetic activation (the relaxation response). Research confirms aquatic immersion lowers stress and enhances cardiovascular efficiency (NIH).
Aquatic therapy improves pain and mobility.
Studies show water-based therapies significantly reduce chronic pain and improve joint flexibility, making Watsu ideal for those with tension or stiffness (Frontiers in Psychology).
Weightlessness relieves the nervous system.
Floating creates a womb-like sensation that reduces proprioceptive load, giving the nervous system a reset. Research on floatation-REST shows it decreases anxiety and improves emotional regulation (APA).
Touch & movement release stored emotions.
Gentle stretches and cradling activate oxytocin (the bonding hormone) and facilitate emotional release. Group studies confirm aquatic therapy increases emotional well-being and reduces depressive symptoms (PubMed).
🌱 Why It Works So Well
Watsu and Janzu combine three key elements:
Water as medicine — weightlessness, warmth, and fluidity calm the nervous system.
Compassionate holding — being supported by another creates deep trust and safety.
Surrender and flow — movements invite the body to release tension and stored memories.
Participants often describe timelessness, emotional release, and a renewed connection to their inner essence.
🧭 Why a Retreat Center Makes the Difference
You may ask: “Why experience Watsu/Janzu at a retreat center instead of a spa?”
The answer is: the container amplifies the healing. At Lunita Jungle Retreat:
Sacred poolside environment creates an intimate, safe space for surrender.
Integration practices like cacao ceremony, breathwork, and sharing circles support you before and after the water journey.
Trauma-aware facilitation ensures your process is contained, with protective opening and closing rituals.
Nature immersion: the jungle sounds enhance relaxation, and guests can also enjoy the possibility of visiting a private cenote nearby for deeper water connection.
Accessibility: located only 30 minutes from Cancún Airport, Lunita allows guests to arrive stress-free and receptive.
This makes a Watsu Session by the Pool (Janzu) a unique experience at Lunita retreat center Cancún—one where aquatic healing is integrated into a larger path of renewal.
🌿 Why Choose Lunita Jungle Retreat?
Sacred Poolside Setting: Designed for aquatic healing sessions.
Open-Air Yoga Shala & Ceremonial Spaces: Complementary for integration practices.
Eco-Cabañas: Comfortable lodging for up to 20 guests in the jungle.
Sacred Gifts: Blessing Ceremony, Professional Photography, Tree Planting, Hug Ceremony.
Nature Immersion: Jungle surroundings with the option to visit a private cenote nearby.
👉 Learn more: Host a Retreat at Lunita
❓ People Also Ask
What is the difference between Watsu, Janzu, and Aguahara?
All are forms of aquatic bodywork. Watsu originated in the U.S., Janzu in Mexico, and Aguahara as a modern intuitive flow. All focus on surrender and healing through water.
Is Watsu safe for beginners?
Yes. Sessions are gentle, supportive, and guided by trained facilitators in safe warm water.
How does water therapy help mental health?
Studies show aquatic immersion reduces stress hormones, improves emotional regulation, and fosters deep relaxation.
🌺 Conclusion
The Watsu Session by the Pool (also known as Janzu) is more than aquatic therapy—it is a ceremony of water, breath, and surrender. By combining weightlessness, guided movement, and compassionate holding, it helps dissolve stress, regulate the nervous system, and restore emotional balance.
At Lunita Jungle Retreat, this becomes a unique retreat experience—supported by sacred spaces, ancestral rituals, and the serene energy of the jungle. It is an invitation to release, reconnect, and float back into life with lightness and clarity.
❓ FAQs About Watsu Session by the Pool
What is a Watsu Session by the Pool?
A water-based bodywork practice combining floating, breath, and movement for deep relaxation.
Why is it also called Janzu or Aguahara?
Different traditions and regions gave it unique names, but all share the same healing essence.
How long is a session?
Usually 60–90 minutes, including opening and closing rituals.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No. You are always supported by the facilitator and never left alone in the water.
What are the benefits?
Stress release, pain relief, emotional release, improved sleep, and deeper body awareness.
Is there scientific support?
Yes. Research on aquatic therapy shows benefits for pain, stress, and emotional health (see NIH, APA, Frontiers, PubMed).
Where can I experience this near Cancún?
At Lunita Jungle Retreat in Puerto Morelos, with a serene poolside setting and jungle atmosphere.
Can facilitators include Watsu in their retreat program?
Yes. Lunita supports retreat leaders in offering aquatic sessions alongside ceremonies and workshops.
Where can I follow Lunita Jungle Retreat on social media?
We would love to connect with you and share inspiration, updates, and glimpses of our retreats.
Follow us to stay inspired and be part of our growing community:
Instagram: @lunitajungle_experience
Facebook: Lunita Jungle Experience
Linkedin: LunitaJungleRetreatCenter
Join us online to see stunning visuals of our jungle sanctuary, learn about upcoming retreats, and engage with like-minded individuals passionate about holistic healing and nature connection.
How can I contact Lunita Jungle Retreat to book a retreat or ask questions?
Whether you’re looking for more details, need guidance on choosing the right retreat, or want a customized experience, our team is here to support you.
📍 Visit our website: www.lunitajungleretreat.com
📍 Corporate Retreats: https://www.lunitajungleretreat.com/corporate-retreats
📧 Email us: info@lunitajungleretreat.com
📞 Contact us directly: Available through our website contact form
📅 Book a free consultation call: Schedule Here?
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