The first World Watsu® Week in 2019 generated a powerful wave of international collaboration and introduced the public to the exceptional technique of Watsu® (Water Shiatsu). Since then, the event has continued to grow, uniting professionals and newcomers across continents.
"Watsu is more than a technique. It is a therapy that heals, bodywork that listens, a path of personal growth for both the receiver and the giver — and also a community of people learning to be together in trust and presence," said Harold Dull, the founder of Watsu®, in the 1980s. Since then, it has helped thousands of people improve their physical and psychological well-being. Through its holistic approach, it promotes deep relaxation, release of tension, and restoration of natural balance.
This year’s edition expands to include other WABA-recognized aquatic therapies: Oceanic Bodywork® Aqua, Healing Dance®, WaterDance®, and Jahara®. Participants worldwide will have the opportunity to experience these techniques firsthand and join related events and workshops.
The primary global date is March 22–28, 2026. In regions where outdoor pools are used and weather conditions are not suitable in March, an alternative date of May 18–24, 2026 may be scheduled. However, the official global communication remains March 22–28 to ensure strong media visibility and worldwide unity under the WABA umbrella.
More information and country programs:
👉 www.worldwatsuweek.com
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Overview of the Techniques
WATSU® (Water Shiatsu) - Created by Harold Dull in 1980 in California. Combines shiatsu principles, gentle joint mobilization, stretching, and flowing movement in warm water (approx. 35°C). Suitable for all ages and known for deep relaxation and spinal release.
Oceanic Bodywork® Aqua (OBA) - Founded in the 1980s by Kaya Femerling and Nirvano Martina Schulz. Mostly practiced underwater using a nose clip, integrating breath, movement, massage, and energy work. Part of the Oceanic Bodywork® system (Water, Fire & Earth, Air).
WaterDance - Developed in 1987 by Arjana Brunschwiler and Aman Schröter. A dynamic underwater therapy involving flowing, dance-like movements that evoke weightlessness and deep meditative states.
Healing Dance® - Founded by Alexander George in 1994. Blends elements of Watsu®, Trager Work, and aquatic dance, combining safety, support, and creative flow.
Jahara® - Created by Mario Jahara in 1996. The technique includes gentle movements that relax the spine.

World Watsu® Week is not just a series of events. It is an invitation to slow down, to return to one’s own body, and to reconnect more deeply with others — across countries, languages, and cultures. It brings together therapists, students, and clients around the world with a shared intention: to experience and share the power of water as a space for regeneration, trust, and genuine human connection.
In a time marked by increasing pressure, stress, and disconnection from ourselves, aquatic therapies offer a return to naturalness, calm, and the deep restoration of balance between body and mind. Together, under the umbrella of WABA, we are spreading awareness of aquatic bodywork as a path toward greater sensitivity, health, and conscious living.
The benefits of water therapies not only for the recevier, but also for the therapist are evidenced by the words of one of the senior teachers, a long-time member of the WABA board, Gianni De Stefani: "Practice water therapies — and you will be healthy."
Together on one wave, we create a space where water connects, heals, and inspires.

More information and links to the individual countries: www.worldwatsuweek.com