Aquatic Journey Testimonials: Watsu
"A year ago, I was introduced to Jeff Bisdee of Aquatic Journey. At the time, I was diagnosed with movement disorders and Parkinsonisms. I was taking two prescription medications and was trying several alternative medicine doctors, as well as massage therapy and chiropractic treatment, in the hope of regaining my health and active lifestyle. Even though I was unfamiliar with Watsu, from my first session I knew I wanted to pursue this type of therapy. In order for me to benefit fully from the Watsu therapy, I had to completely relax and put my trust in Jeff. This was also a new experience for me. Jeff made it easy for me to 'let go.'
"Midway through my second session I could feel the transition taking place and it has proven to be enjoyable and beneficial with each subsequent session. It is my intention to have a Watsu session every two weeks.
"I have continued to incorporate other alternative therapies into my healing regime, but I feel that Watsu is the most therapeutic one for me. I quit taking one of my medications with the approval of my neurologies because my body tremors are gone. Much of this improvement I attribute to Jeff and Watsu. I have found Watsu to be both physically and mentally restorative. Jeff has helped me to recover a part of my life and well-being."
– Michael P., Director of Global Marketing of a locally-based company
"Watsu is very relaxing and relieves pain longer than ordinary massage. I recommend Watsu to my pregnant clients who want to relax, relieve stress and help get their babies into a good position for birth."
– Teresa Bailey, professional Doula, www.teresadoula.com
"I’ve had a complicated chronic pain condition for a few years and tried every sort of treatment – both in traditional medicine and alternative methods. Nothing worked for any meaningful length of time until I discovered Watsu. My pain management specialist kept urging me to “get into a pool” not just for pain relief but for the safest way to strengthen my inflamed nerves and muscles. However, due to a lifelong fear of water I never thought I could trust anyone enough to even begin the process of relaxing thus benefit from a massage done entirely in water. Fortunately, I found my fear never had a chance to enter my mind because, with Watsu, the therapist (Jeff) never lets go. The water is warm and incredibly soothing. Just getting into the pool I felt every part of me — joints, muscles, nerve endings — start to release and relax. Not long after the massage began, I was almost asleep.
"Shortly after I started Watsu I read about the Cherokee belief that if one experiences an illness or loss, the cure is found when they “GO TO WATER.” By “going to water” they cleanse physically and spiritually; they counteract bad dreams or evil spells and cure physical illnesses. The Cherokee would even go so far as to break ice to get through to the water. If a member of the tribe did not “go to water” when necessary, then the entire tribe could suffer the same ills or evils. “Going to water” works for me. I’ve never had better a result in managing my pain. I will even go as far as to say that I am pain free when I finish the massage and remain that way for several days. I am working toward staying pain free always and believe that Watsu will get me there."
– Marilyn
Aquatic Journey Testimonials: Swim Therapy
"Cormac is an energetic, out-going kid, except when we would get in the water. We tried showing Cormac basic swimming skills and group lessons, but his fear was too great. He would cling to us, cry, and refuse to try. We were concerned about him being safe in and around the water.
"Since working with Jeff, Cormac's skills and confidence has grown tremendously. Each week, Jeff teaches Cormac new skills while decreasing his fear of the water. Jeff is focused, patient, and caring. Best of all, Cormac is having fun!"
– Mark & Emily Crow
"My son was afraid of getting more than his chin wet. We started taking him to swimming lessons with Jeff Bisdee and he helped my son learn to love swimming. Jeff breaks down each part of swimming and helps his student get comfortable with each part. The result is gentle lessons which take away fear of water and don't add to it. My son may never become an Olympic swimmer, but he will enjoy being a swimmer, thanks to Jeff Bisdee!"
– Teresa, Chris and Simon Bailey
"I am 54 years old and never learned to swim due to a fear of water. When the doctor treating me for an injury said "get into a pool" I was frightened but knew I had to at least try. Jeff Bisdee made everything easy. Within just a few sessions I was actually swimming. It's the best, most relaxing and healthiest thing I've done for my injured body as well as my confidence. Now I can't wait to "get into the pool" and this is coming from someone who used to get anxious at the smell of chlorine. I can't believe how far I've come!"
– Marilyn Kennedy
