LIMA, Peru (AP) – They arrive at Lima’s coast shortly before dawn and wade into the Pacific Ocean, seeking relief from the ailments doctors have been unable to cure.
Some come in groups, jumping, laughing and running along the shore. Others bathe alone silently in the calm, gray sea.
Under overcast skies at Playa de Pescadores, or Fishermen’s Beach, the bathers practice thalassotherapy, which derives from the Greek “thalasso,” for “sea,” and draws on the ocean’s healing properties.
Most of the bathers practice an informal, self-directed sea therapy. Others work with leaders such as natural therapy promoter Jose Cusquisiban.
“The sea is the pharmacy of humanity,” said Cusquisiban. “It has many minerals, vitamins.”