This will be an introductory 16-hour course to the practice of aquatic bodywork, drawing from varying approaches such as Aguahara, Fluid Presence, Qi Gong, Contact improvisation, breathwork techniques, and aquatic dance. 

The goal of this 3-day training will be to introduce participants
to the basic structure for offering an aquatic bodywork session
to another in a 97° heated outdoor pool. Participants will cultivate
confidence in several approaches to supporting the weightlessness
of the body, as well as how to support the release of the body’s tensions
through compressions, stretches, undulations, and underwater immersions. 

Throughout the weekend we will explore a variety of practices, scores, and techniques that will increase your sense of stability within the water.  We will practice how to attune to the individual you are floating to provide a secure psycho-physical container. We will explore how secure containment can offer the possibility for somatic freedom.  We will learn to mobilize the body, with respect to its structure, as well as practice developing softness and minimal effort as practitioners.

We will experience how aquatic bodywork can have a profound effect on an individual, including the neuromuscular, fascial, psycho-emotional, and spiritual. As such, we will be approaching the work with a holistic sensibility, that regards all our structures as sensitively interconnected.

For Whom:

This course will be applicable to bodyworkers, physical therapists, movement therapists, somatic practioners, dancers, or anyone who:

* is curious about exploring the fluid dynamics of the body, and being in your body in a more fluid and adaptable way

* is wanting to develop their capacity to hold space for deeply relaxing, regulating and potentially transformative experiences

* has enjoyed floating another, but would like to develop their techniques/skills

* wants to deepen their therapeutic practice with a powerful somatic modality

Logistics:

• Snacks will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring a light lunch.

• Bring a bathing suit, towel, and non-glass water bottle

• A same-day negative at home rapid test is required for admission.

• Showering daily before entering the pool

Location:

Three Sisters Temple: a private heated outdoor pool under the redwoods in Oakland, Ca

Address will be sent out after registration.

Dates:

Fri: Nov 18, 2 pm- 7 pm

Sat: Nov 19, 11am- 4:00 pm

Sun: Nov 20, 11am- 5:00 pm

We will have several short breaks throughout our days. 

Costs:

Supporting rate $500+

Full rate: $420

Need-Based: $250 

The cost is fully refundable until 7 days before the event begin.
After which a non-refundable $40 fee applies. 

If you are interested, but needing a financial need-based option, reach out, as there are only a couple slots available. 

Registration:

To express interest or ask questions about this training,
you can email Asha directly at Fashalacqua@gmail.com

Spots are limited to 6, due to the size of the pool and nature of the work. 

To Register, simply fill out the form below, and send training fees to:

Venmo: @escolacqua or Paypal: Fashalacqua@gmail.com

Facilitator: 

Asha (he/they) is an integrative bodyworker, aquatic therapist, and dancer with a somatic oriented approach to guiding the body into functional fluidity. He strives to meet his clients with a warm and compassionate presence as he supports them towards deepening levels of embodiment and somatic freedom.

Asha earned his BA from Hampshire College in integrative psychology, medical anthropology, and cognitive science, and his CMT from Mckinnon Body Therapy Center. His passion for aquatic therapy led him to study Aguahara and Fluid Presence in Brazil, Mexico, and Spain.  He is a certified DanceAbility teacher, Aguahara practitioner, Freediver, and is completing his Somatic Experiencing Practitioner certification. He also offers trauma-informed bodywork through the psychedelic-assisted-therapy clinic Sage Integrative Health in Berkeley, Ca.

As a dancer/mover, his movement practice has been shaped by many influences, but is predominantly informed by functional movement, Axis Syllabus, Contact Improvisation, Contemporary dance, and aquatic dance. He offers classes on Contact Improvisation, aquatic dance and mobility practices in the Bay Area. Through his practice and teachings, he strives to support the development of functional fluidity, a reliable connection to the ground, subtle listening, and presence in moments of disorientation.