A form of aquatic bodywork performed in warm water that combines massage, joint mobilization, shiatsu, and dance into a single flowing experience of deep relaxation and release.
WATSU (Water Shiatsu) is a form of aquatic bodywork developed in the early 1980s by Harold Dull at the Harbin Hot Springs in Northern California. It combines elements of Zen Shiatsu, massage, joint mobilization, muscle stretching, and dance — all performed in warm water (typically 35°C) while the recipient floats in the practitioner's arms.
The recipient wears a swimsuit and floats on their back, supported by floatation devices at the knees and neck. The practitioner stands in chest-deep water and uses their body as a fulcrum, moving the recipient through the water in continuous, flowing patterns that mimic the movement of waves, seaweed, or a fetus in the womb.
Because water eliminates the effects of gravity, the spine can decompress, joints can open beyond their normal range, and muscles can release in ways that are impossible on land. The warm water increases circulation, reduces pain perception, and induces a state of deep parasympathetic relaxation — often described as "floating in the womb."
At Angkor Grace Wellness Resort, the 33-meter phytopurified biopool provides an ideal setting for WATSU sessions. The chemical-free, plant-purified water is alive — soft, silky, and free from the chlorine smell that dominates conventional pools. It is water as nature intended it.
A typical WATSU session lasts 45–60 minutes and follows a clear progression:
Connection — The session begins with the practitioner establishing physical contact and breath synchronization. The recipient is invited to close their eyes and surrender to the water's support. This initial phase can last 5–10 minutes and is crucial for building trust.
Movement — The practitioner begins to move the recipient through the water in gentle, continuous patterns. The movements include slow rotations, gentle stretches, and wave-like undulations that release tension from the spine, hips, shoulders, and neck.
Stillness — Periods of movement alternate with periods of stillness, where the recipient simply floats while the practitioner holds them in a supportive embrace. These still points allow the nervous system to integrate the release.
Closure — The session ends gradually, with the practitioner bringing the recipient back to a vertical position and allowing time for quiet integration before exiting the water. Many recipients report feeling "reborn" after a session.
Research and clinical observation have documented a wide range of physical, emotional, and neurological benefits from regular WATSU practice.
The buoyancy of water allows the spine to lengthen and decompress, relieving pressure on discs and nerves. Many recipients report immediate relief from chronic back pain.
The womb-like environment and gentle touch can access stored trauma in the body without re-traumatization. The water provides a sense of safety that allows deep release.
Water supports the body while allowing joints to move through their full range without load. This is especially beneficial for arthritis, fibromyalgia, and post-surgical recovery.
The combination of warm water, gentle movement, and sustained touch shifts the autonomic nervous system from sympathetic (fight/flight) to parasympathetic (rest/digest).
WATSU is one of the most recommended bodywork modalities for pregnancy. The water supports the belly's weight while the gentle movements relieve back pain and hip tension.
Recipients consistently report deeper, more restorative sleep after WATSU sessions. The parasympathetic shift and physical release create optimal conditions for sleep.
The phytopurified biopool at Angkor Grace is one of the most extraordinary settings for WATSU in the world. The 33-meter pool is purified by plants, not chemicals — meaning the water is alive, soft, and free from the chlorine residue that can irritate skin and eyes during bodywork.
WATSU sessions are available as part of the Angkor Convergence retreat package and can be booked individually by resort guests. Our practitioners are certified by the Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association (WABA) and have extensive experience working with retreat participants from diverse backgrounds.
WATSU is available as part of The Angkor Convergence or as a standalone treatment at Angkor Grace. The water is waiting.
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