Training Course WATSU® Basic
A Transformative Inner Journey with Watsu®
Discover and experience the foundations of Watsu® through its first essential movements and explorations.
Open to everyone — no exceptions, no specific requirements.
Basic Watsu® can help you deepen your meditation and cultivate a stronger connection with yourself.
“Approach each session as an occasion to practice being with another without expectation.”
WATSU®:
The Art of Fluid Movement and Deep Connection
WATSU®—short for “Water Shiatsu”—is the world’s first form of Aquatic Bodywork, created in the 1980s by poet Harold Dull. Rooted in Zen Shiatsu, this gentle yet deeply effective practice invites you into a state of relaxation, trust, and effortless movement in warm water.
This course is an opportunity to experience the foundational principles of WATSU®, helping you reconnect with yourself and others through mindful presence and flowing touch.
You will begin by exploring the element of Earth, grounding yourself in the sensation of your body’s weight, balance, and connection to gravity. From this foundation, you will develop a heart-centered connection, learning to move and support another person with ease and sensitivity. The principles of WATSU® come alive in water, where buoyancy allows for graceful, fluid movements that require no effort—only presence.
Like Tai Chi, WATSU® follows the natural rhythm of breath and movement. You will learn how to hold, stretch, and move a person while floating, allowing the water to do much of the work for you. This sequence is simple yet profoundly effective, offering a practice that can be repeated endlessly, always bringing something fresh and nourishing for both the giver and the receiver.
11 – 12 – 13 APRIL 2025
Over the weekend
——————————–
09 – 10 – 11 MAY 2025
Over the weekend
POLYNESIA WATSU CENTER
Moorea – French Polynesia
45.000 XPF
3 Days course + 16 hours International WABA Certification
Carlos Del Pino
Co-founder ~ Watsu® & Tantsu Instructor
My journey began at the age of five when I first immersed myself in the discipline of Karate. This early experience sparked a lifelong passion for body movement, self-awareness, and healing. Over the years, my path expanded through the study of meditation techniques, leading me to become a certified Shiatsu Practitioner in 1999, recognized by the European Shiatsu Professional Association.
In 2004, I discovered the transformative power of Watsu®, bringing my passion for bodywork into the water. With a holistic vision and an open heart, I embraced this practice, eventually becoming a WABA-certified Watsu® and Tantsu instructor, as well as a Shiatsu teacher and Craniosacral practitioner. My approach is deeply intuitive, inspired by creative movement and a continuous exploration of new forms of personal expression.
Throughout my journey, I have traveled across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, learning from different cultures both as a student and a trainer. I have worked in anthroposophical communities in Germany, immersed myself in the mystical traditions of Latin America, and drawn inspiration from Eastern philosophies.
Today, I reside in Polynesia, a land rich in culture and ancestral wisdom. The Maori traditions have profoundly influenced my work, and their ancient sounds and dances naturally weave into my teaching, creating a spontaneous and fluid approach to body movement. My passion for Polynesian dance led me to perform for several years in the Heiva celebrations, an experience that allowed me to deeply connect with the rhythm and heartbeat of these islands.
I am dedicated to spreading Watsu® and Tantsu internationally, with a special focus on Polynesia. As a Certified Outdoor Physical Activity Guide (Professionnel d’Accompagnateur d’Activités Physiques de Pleine Nature), I also lead people in exploring the breathtaking marine life of the Polynesian islands, combining movement, nature, and water-based healing practices.
Through my work, I invite others on a journey of self-discovery, helping them connect with their bodies, emotions, and inner flow—both on land and in the water.
POLYNESIA WATSU CENTER
Moorea Island (French Polynesia)
Located on the mystical island of Moorea, the Polynesian Watsu Center is nestled by the serene natural lake of Temae, within a nationally protected area rich in unique flora and fauna.
In 2022, we completed the construction of a 10-meter by 3.5-meter infinity pool, seamlessly integrated into the natural environment. This saltwater therapeutic pool serves as a dedicated space for various aquatic therapy practices, including educational programs and private sessions. The water temperature is maintained at approximately 33°C, creating the perfect setting for water-based therapies.
Our center is situated in the Temae area of Moorea, just five minutes from the iconic Temae Beach, near the golf club and the airport.
We also offer a spacious terrace of over 100 square meters, designed for land-based therapeutic activities and courses. Surrounding our center, you will find more than 100 different plant species, which we nurture with love and passion, ensuring harmony with the natural environment.
WATSU® Basic:
Program course
This course is structured over two and a half days and provides a 16-hour certification, meeting the WABA (Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association) international requirements for the practitioner path.
Course Objectives
During this training, participants will learn to:
Open a Watsu® session
Explore the gravitational, physical, and energetic properties of water
Maintain a proper posture for aquatic bodywork
Safely guide and support a person during an aquatic session
Create a sense of security for the receiver
Conclude the session and assist the person out of the water
Conduct a 30-minute session, following the basic sequence
Understand the structure and closure of a Watsu® session
SCHEDULE
Day 1: 14:00 – 18:00
Day 2: 10:00 – 18:00
(including a 1.5-hour break)
Day 3: 10:00 – 17:00
(including a 1.5-hour break)
WATSU® Fundamentals
Healing Practices & Water-Based Bodywork
Watsu®
Tantsu
Waterchanics
Watsu® Round
Benefits
Psychological and physical advantages
By supporting, rocking, and gently moving the entire body while stretching a limb, Watsu® reduces resistance that often arises when working on isolated areas.
When the body remains in continuous, flowing motion, each movement seamlessly blending into the next, there is no anticipation—eliminating the chance to build resistance. Without pain, the body can move beyond its usual limitations, free from the restrictions imposed by fear.
This fluid practice awakens long-neglected connective tissues, offering the body newfound flexibility and freedom.
The warm water environment enhances these effects, providing continuous buoyant support that helps free the spine.
With the weight lifted off the vertebrae and muscles deeply relaxed, circulation improves, carrying away built-up metabolites and reducing soreness and fatigue.
The natural weightlessness of water also lowers oxygen demands, helping to calm the breath and induce profound relaxation.
By relieving tension in the spine and muscles, Watsu® reduces nerve pressure, enhancing overall body function and organ health for a deeply restorative experience.
Psychological, Emotional, and Mental Effects
- Induces profound relaxation
- Cultivates joy, restoring your inner source of health, energy, and vitality
- Promotes deep states of gratitude and an ecstatic connection with life
- Strengthens relationships with yourself, your partner, family, and community
- Helps resolve past traumas related to water, birth, and near-drowning experiences
- Enhances mental clarity and focus, improving overall efficiency and inner calm
Physical Effects on the whole body
- Instills deep relaxation and stress relief
- Supports post-traumatic rehabilitation, aiding recovery from fractures and injuries
- Releases physical tension, promoting overall well-being
- Enhances body awareness, fostering a deeper connection with oneself
- Improves flexibility and range of motion
- Stimulates circulation and boosts the lymphatic system
- Relieves chronic pain and muscular stiffnes
Testimonials
What people say about our courses
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Who is this course for?
This course is for anyone drawn to the magic of Watsu®. Whether you dream of starting a professional journey, already work in the wellness world, or simply crave a deeply relaxing experience just for yourself. No matter your background, if you’re looking to connect with water, unwind, and explore the profound benefits of aquatic bodywork, this is the perfect place to start!
Do I need any previous experience to participate?
No prior experience is required! This class is open to everyone, whether you’re new to Watsu® or simply curious to explore the benefits of aquatic bodywork.
How are the activities structured during the course?
The course includes both theory and practice. The theoretical part takes place on land, where we discuss key concepts in a simple and engaging way. There are also moments for sharing and reflection, allowing participants to deepen their understanding through discussion and observation.
We use modern and intuitive teaching methods that make learning easy and enjoyable. This approach helps participants absorb the knowledge naturally and apply it smoothly during the practical sessions in the water.
What can I take home after the seminar?
After your first Watsu® Basic seminar, you will have the skills to give a 30-minute Watsu session. You will also leave with a better sense of self-awareness and a renewed energy that you can bring into your daily life.
Can I work professionally after this course?
Watsu® is an internationally trademarked aquatic bodywork with high professional standards. To practice it professionally, you must complete the full training path. This course alone does not qualify you to work as a professional Watsu® practitioner.
JOIN US!
GET IN TOUCH
Fill out the form to sign up or ask for more info. We can’t wait to connect with you!
ONE SOUL SPA © Copyright – All rights reserved | Manuela Paoletti & Carlos del Pino | N. Tahiti 968558 | +689 87205655 | Email us | Privacy & Cookie
