Treatments
Watsu Aquatic Therapy
Watsu is a gentle form of body therapy performed in warm water (±35⁰C). It combines elements of massage, shiatsu, joint mobilisation, and stretching the muscles in a rhythmical, dance-like flow. The receiver floats on his or her back, face and nose out of the water, and is supported, cradled, rocked and stretched by the therapist. We offer this treatment in the serenity and privacy of our special Watsu pool at Tikapa Moana.
Moments of stillness alternate with flowing movements, freeing one’s body in ways impossible on land. The water creates a weightless environment, allowing for the experience of a pain-free treatment. The deeply relaxing effects of the warm water give the body more range of motion and flexibility, freeing the spine, joints and muscles in a way that is unique to Watsu.
The effects include a very gentle but deep physical stretching, as well as the release of any muscular and joint restrictions. Watsu can create a blissful state of relaxation, and thereby encourages a release of emotional stress and tension. As a result, many receivers have experienced renewed clarity around decision making and life choices.
Watsu is safe, beneficial and revitalising for people of all ages and in all states of health. It is as joyful to give as it is to receive.
“Tikapa Moana has become a very special place for my husband Paul & I. We ’stumbled’ across it online just over a year ago and we recently had our second stay there. We feel that in the peaceful, nurturing surroundings we can relax and just ‘be’. It also goes without saying that we just love catching up with Bill, Marilyn and Maya.This visit was different in that I had a Watsu session with Marilyn. I use a motorised wheelchair as I have a physical disability. I have always loved being in the water because this is the only time my body is ’free’. I experience alot of pain and more recently anxiety and tension which was affecting my breathing. I had never experienced Watsu before so this was all new to me.The only word I can find to describe Watsu is ‘Beautiful’. My breathing became deeply relaxed as did my body, the gentle stretching was painless unlike on ground, Whilst I loved the whole experience, my favourite part was being cradled - just beautiful.Watsu is in no way intrusive like some other therapies can be. This is something that is very important to me because in my situation I rely on carers for assistance so am often in close physical contact with people and it can be uncomfortable at times.For me the benefits of Watsu are indescribable, it was like my body knew this was the right way it needed healing, the only way I could become re-connected with my physical body again.I am looking forward to another Watsu session soon. Thank you Marilyn, it was such a pleasure receiving Watsu from you.” — Kind Regards, Niki Jackman (Auckland)
Therapeutic Massage
Receive a personalised massage from Marilyn to relieve those aches and pains, relax your tired body and start your way to renewed health and vitality… a treat not to miss!
“My personal style of massage is greatly influenced by the work I do in the water. My land-based treatments also incorporate elements of Lomi Lomi and holistic pulsing – another technique utilising the power of rhythm and dance. I include Myofascial Intergration where deeper massage is needed, as well as elements of reflexology and acupressure.
Many of my long-distance clients ask the name of my form of massage, so they can find it elsewhere. In the simplest terms: I give what I like to receive. I offer people a feeling of wholeness in the work I do, as well as focusing on creating balance in their bodies.
My goal is to help my clients feel completely listened to – physically, emotionally, and mentally.” - Marilyn
Far Infrared Sauna
Our latest technology far-inrared sauna therapy is incredibly effective in eliminating toxins and heavy metals from the body through dry heat-induced perspiration in a comfortable and relaxing environment accompanied by soothing music.
