The Ama divers are seen as environmentalists, as they employ sustainable fishing methods and harvest seafood only in season. The Ama lifestyle is an important cultural aspect of Japan, and Ama divers are revered for their bravery and strength. They are also known for their beautiful voices, as they chant and hummed during their dives, which helped them regulate their breathing.
In the early days, Ama diving was restricted to women because they were known to be better swimmers compared to men due to their body’s physiology. For instance, a woman’s lung capacity is generally greater in proportion to their body size than a man’s, making them better-equipped for diving. In addition, they have more subcutaneous body fat, which helps to insulate them from the cold waters. As a result, Ama diving became a profession that was passed down from generation to generation among women.
Though the role of Ama divers has changed over the years, the profession still exists and continues to be practiced by a few hundred women scattered along Japan’s coasts. In modern times, Ama divers are more focused on promoting tourism and the traditions of their culture rather than solely reliant on fishing as a profession. They provide tourists with the chance to observe Ama diving up close and learn about the history of this cultural tradition.
Moreover, the role of Ama divers has expanded beyond just fishing. They have become protectors of the oceans as well. Ama divers have been actively involved in conservation efforts to protect the ocean’s ecosystems. They take part in the removal of debris and fish traps that have been left behind by commercial fishing boats. Their sole existence is part of ecological preservation, and their winnowing of the ocean’s limited resources has a negligible impact compared to a commercial fisherman.
In conclusion, Ama diving is an ancient tradition that is still practiced in modern times by a few hundred women along the coast of Japan. It is a way of life that promotes sustainable fishing and conserving the ocean’s ecosystems. The Ama way of life is a testament to the resilience of a culture and traditions that have stood the test of time. It is a window to a past age, where the environment and the communities thrived in unison. Today, we can learn from the Ama way of life and incorporate their practices and beliefs into our own ways of life to build a better future for our oceans and ourselves.