I've had top-loaders and front loaders, and I prefer front loaders. They use less water, power, seem to wash better and are gentler on clothes. I've had a top loader with a central agitator rip the sleeves off of shirts before. I have no issues with the machine going mouldy or not washing properly, and in a country which often has strict water restrictions, the front loader definitely has the advantage.
I can tell you that Mexican waves in Australia (which is in the southern hemisphere last time I checked) travel clockwise 99% of the time. Just like the water down the drain problem, it depends on which direction it's started.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macaron
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macaroon
Bow Tie Fighter XXL
I Want To Believe, the Alien Version - 2XL
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/10/kirby-brown-sweat-lodge-v_n_316538.html
This is a dangerous practice with no basis in psychology with the potential of causing serious injury or death.