The Ama Women
Legends of Power, Spirit, and Underwater Skills in Japanese History
Imagine a world where the sea is not just a source of livelihood but also a realm where women possess incredible power and skill. The Ama women, Japan’s legendary female divers, have been revered for centuries as symbols of resilience, mastery, and a deep connection to the ocean. Their significance goes beyond diving; they have shaped history and myth in profound ways.
The Ama have long been central figures in Japan’s maritime traditions. The term "Ama," derived from "海人" (sea person), refers to professional female divers skilled in gathering seashells, seafood, and seaweed from the seabed. This profession, dating back to at least 750 AD, was regarded as vital to society, with the Ama held in high regard, sometimes considered as important as the samurai. In historical texts like the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, the Ama are praised for their maritime expertise and essential role in supporting the imperial court. They helped transport the emperor’s wife and protected the royal family, making them key to the nation’s stability.
Ama practice sokushin, a breath training technique that helps them stay underwater for extended periods. Sokushin is not just physical but spiritual, deeply connecting the body to nature. The technique involves slow, controlled breathing to maintain calm and focus even at great depths. It optimizes oxygen intake and reduces fatigue, allowing the Ama to endure the physical and mental demands of diving. This practice underscores their profound connection to the ocean and nature.
Their connection to spirituality is just as deep, with their role in folklore and tradition elevating them to almost mythical status. In many regions, the Ama are believed to be protected by sea spirits or deities, imbuing their practices with a sacred dimension. This belief is particularly evident in the popular legends of Benziaten and Amaterasu, two prominent figures in Japanese mythology.
Folklore also suggests the Ama possess mystical abilities. Some believe they can communicate with marine creatures and river spirits (kawa-no-kami, 川の神). Pearls and other treasures were thought to be gifts from these spirits. Additionally, it is said that Ama are forbidden from looking at the sea at night while resting, as the water could come to life transforming itself into mythical creatures like sea serpents or monstrous aquatic beings; it’s a superstition particularly strong in Japan’s more remote coastal areas.
“When you enter the water, the sea isn’t an enemy, it’s a part of you. Sometimes, it feels like my body becomes one with the ocean.” This powerful statement by Aiko Ohno, a renowned contemporary Ama diver, highlights the profound bond between the Ama and the sea. This connection goes beyond their profession; it is spiritual, physical, and deeply rooted in the natural world.