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“You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.”
Andre Gide
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Why choose Aquatic Therapy? Water has unique properties, it’s natural buoyancy reduces the effect of gravity on our bodies and gives us the feeling of being ‘weightless’. Furthermore the turbulence that forms as a result of movement in the water can be used to assist floatation by encouraging push and glide techniques. Buoyancy and turbulence combined allow us to initiate and experience a freedom and range of movements that are not possible on land. Water is an unstable environment in which the body is easily rotated and this encourages the constant working of core muscles and balancing skills. At the same time the density of water slows our movements so there is more time to react and this can improve co-ordination, balance and ultimately confidence in movement. With the body in an upright position pressure increases with water depth. This results in more blood being pumped from the heart encouraging stronger heart muscle contraction but without a corresponding increase in heart rate. The upward thrust of water combined with pressure increases allow for all round gentle exercise, especially muscle and joint stretches, with little risk of injury. This is ideal for individuals of any age or physical ability wishing to improve fitness whilst enjoying being in the water.
Water provides sensory stimulation which has a soothing and calming affect for many. Being in heated water suppresses the sympathetic nervous system which enhances relaxation and can also result in better quality sleep. Activities in water can be fun, enabling and enjoyable, helping motivation and providing opportunities for social interaction. I believe that being in warm water in a pleasant environment, whether inside or out, can have a very beneficial effect on our physical and mental well-being. What can I offer? As a young person I was a competitive swimmer and later worked professionally as a lifeguard and instructor. I am qualified through The Amateur Swimming Association to teach adults, children, mothers and toddlers and children/adults with special needs. I have trained with Stephen Shaw whose Shaw Technique takes the principles of the Alexander Technique and applies them to movement in water. It emphasises the importance of a balanced relationship between the head, neck and back to avoid strain and injury, as well as the idea that ‘less is more’ in the water. I have also studied the Halliwick Concept which led to the formation of The Halliwick Association of Swimming Therapy for people with a range of disabilities. This concept emphasises the recreational aspects of swimming including water confidence, breath control, movement, rotation, balance and relaxation in water.
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URL: http://www.sarahurwin.co.uk
