A high impact gym session or deep tissue massage are great, but there is also beauty in simply disconnecting. Enter aquatic therapies. With everyone from Stephen Curry to Jennifer Lawrence swearing by it, aquatic therapy is lauded for its powerful yet low impact approach—it’s a completely different dynamic from traditional physical therapy or exercise. For a new way to decompress, we round up the best places to try aquatic therapy:

1. Sensory Deprivation Therapy at FLOAX 

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Above Photo: Courtesy of FLOAX Flotation Therapy

If you struggle with insomnia or feeling well-rested, refresh yourself with a FLOAX flotation session. From the thoughtfully designed aromatherapy amenities to the state-of-the-art sensory deprivation equipment, you’ll feel a deep sense of zen from the moment you enter the FLOAX centre.

Sensory deprivation therapy involves a tank or pod filled with body temperature salt water, where one is removed from stimuli like light and sound. In your private float room, you’ll take a soothing shower before entering the flotation pod—which is filled with 550kg of Epsom salt water solution—to experience a nearly “zero gravity” environment.

It’s normal for your first session to feel a bit awkward, but the point is to relax and discover true rest. The revitalising effects of the Epsom salt on your hair and skin is a nice bonus, plus, you’ll sleep like a baby that night.

Price: HK$488 for 45 minutes, HK$588 for 60 minutes, HK$688 for 90 minutes

FLOAX Flotation Therapy, 1/F, Wing Hing Mansion, 16 Granville Circuit, Tsim Sha Tsui, +852 2321 9624; floax.com.hk

2. Watsu Water Treatment with Michael Hallock

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Fivelements Hong Kong

With nearly 20 years experience, Michael Hallock is one of the few therapists in Hong Kong who specialise in watsu, which derives from the words “water” and “shiatsu”, and combines massage, muscle stretching, mobility, shiatsu and dance.

In a pool of chest-deep warm water, a therapist gently moves and guides the receiver through the water. The movements effectively incorporate physiotherapy and sensory deprivation. Being in the water loosens the receiver’s spine, joints and rib cage so that they can relax and expand their breathing.

Hallock says for many, watsu is a powerful exercise in learning to surrender, particularly helpful for anyone dealing with grief or anxiety. Previously at Fivelements in Sai Kung, Hallock is now working with Evolution Wellness to establish his Sacred Arts Studio. It is projected to open in early 2019.

Michael Hallock can be contacted for private appointments at +852 6130 0790 or michael@fivelements.org

3. Hydrotherapy Treatment at Chuan Spa

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Chaun Spa, Cordis Hong Kong

Experience water in its various healing forms with a rejuvenating hydrotherapy massage. Start with an acupressure water massage as 400 jets create deeply relaxing, pulsating currents.

Then, sink into an ergonomic NeoQi Energy Cocoon which uses steam, infrared sauna, aromatherapy and chromotherapy to reduce muscle strain, eliminate toxins, and restore mental and emotional balance. You won’t want the massage to end as you lie down for your Vichy shower: a massage bed under warm streams of water, designed to melt away tension and aches.

Price: HK$675 for 45 minutes

Chuan Spa, Cordis Hong Kong, Langham Place, 555 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, +852 3552 3510; chuanspa.com.hk

See also: 5 Ways To Get Better Sleep—And Slim Down In The Process

4. Hammam and Rasul Water Therapy at The Oriental Spa

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Above Spa Rasul (Photo: Courtesy of Landmark Mandarin Oriental)

Detoxify and rebuff the body with the satisfying power of steam. Ladies retreat exclusively into the private Rasul chamber where steam and heat cleanse, release toxins and leave the skin delightfully supple. Then, it's time for the smoothing mud treatment. With your body lathered in a rich mineral blend, your skin is left rejuvenated and silkier than ever.

For men, the Hammam treatment starts with a relaxing deep steam cleanse before you are indulged with a full body scrub, hair washing ritual and scalp massage. After a full body stretching massage and hydrating body lotion application, you’ll feel like a million bucks in no time.

Price: Hammam (Gentlemen only) HK$1,750 (weekday), HK$2,000 (weekend) for 1 hour 30 minutes; Rasul (Ladies only) – HK$1,200 (weekday), HK$1,350 (weekend) for 1 hour

The Oriental Spa, Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, +852 3172 8011; mandarinoriental.com

5. Nourish the Soul at The Spa at Four Seasons Hong Kong 

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Four Seaons Hotel, Hong Kong

This enlightening half-day experience begins with a traditional sage smudging to cleanse the body of negative energy, followed by followed by a soak in a citrus-, chamomile- and marigold-scented spiritual bath.

Move from one bath to another, as you enjoy the gentle vibrations of a Tibetan singing bowl sound bath as your therapist stimulates energy flow with a full body massage complete with crystal and healing touch therapy. Then, retreat to the Pool Terrace to nourish the body with a vegan lunch before experiencing a meditative tea ceremony. 

Price: HK$5,920 (weekday), HK$6,420 (weekend), the treatment lasts 210 minutes

See also: Resham Daswani Has Meditation Down To A Tea

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