Dolphin therapy in Brazil’s Amazon offers a novel approach for individuals with disabilities, transforming lives through unique dolphin interactions. Developed by Igor Simoes Andrade, the therapy, free of charge and supported by sponsorships, focuses on fostering joy and connection to nature. Various disabilities are addressed in sessions that comply with environmental regulations, enhancing participants’ skills holistically.
In the Amazon region of Brazil, dolphin therapy has emerged as a transformative approach for individuals with disabilities. Originating from Manaus, participants engage in this innovative therapy in the Rio Negro river, with around 400 individuals benefiting from its implementation over the past two decades. This unique therapy addresses various conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, and amputations, allowing patients to interact closely with dolphins.
Physiotherapist Igor Simoes Andrade, the innovator behind dolphin therapy, describes it as “the first in the world,” highlighting that it serves to complement traditional medical methods rather than replace them. His objective is to foster happiness, joy, and a connection to nature, elements often absent in conventional healthcare environments. Notably, the therapy sessions are provided at no cost to participants, supported through sponsorships.
Neuropsychologist Hannah Fernandes points out the social benefits of this therapy, which encourages individuals with disabilities to explore new environments and engage in social interactions beyond their daily routines. Before their sessions, participants, such as Luiz Felipe, undergo breathing exercises and yoga to prepare for their aquatic experience.
Initially apprehensive about entering the water, Luiz Felipe has experienced a significant increase in his confidence through these sessions. The interactions with pink river dolphins, or “boto,” prove to be engaging, as these creatures respond with curiosity, creating a strong human-animal bond. The therapy sessions, termed “bototherapy,” adhere to regulations set forth by the environmental authority Ibama to ensure compliance with wildlife protections.
Mr. Simoes asserts that this therapy enhances essential skills, including balance, spinal strength, and psychomotor coordination. He emphasizes a holistic approach to treatment, stating, “Here we do not treat pathologies but human beings.”
Dolphin therapy in Brazil’s Amazon provides a unique and effective avenue for supporting individuals with disabilities, enhancing both physical and emotional well-being. By fostering connections with nature and promoting social interaction, this innovative therapy not only complements traditional treatments but also enriches participants’ lives holistically. The initiative’s success highlights the powerful impact of alternative therapeutic approaches combined with rigorous ethical standards.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
