Drumming for Life

I recently had the interesting and rejuvenating experience of participating in a drumming circle.  The lady who conducted our drumming circle told of the calming effects on Palliative Care patients. Since I am a retired Palliative Care nurse, I became curious about the history and documented effects of drumming.....hence this blog.

Drumming

The use of the hand drum in relationship to healing is certainly not new. According to anecdotal reports and current research, the hand drum and its rhythms have been instrumental in improving illnesses when medical science had few answers.

The Power of the Drum 

The pounding of the drum can relax the tense, energize the tired, and heal the emotionally wounded. The hand drum has the extraordinary and consistent ability to create states of euphoria, induce trance, promote play, release anger and promote feelings of community, unity and promote well being.

Psychological Benefits

There are numerous psychological benefits in drumming. First, is a sense of personal power. Second, the drum places one squarely in the here and now. When Hitting the drum, there is no time to think about tomorrow’s fears, yesterday’s regrets or what’s for dinner. The drum becomes an opportunity for those who repress their emotions to release them.

The pounding of a drum can help us to take notice of our own heartbeat. It is our heartbeats that keep us alive and vital. Drumming can also be very therapeutic in getting in touch with our inner selves. A low, steady beat can create a calmness whereas a stronger upbeat can stir us into action or a frenzy.

Since this was a new experience for me, I was curious about anyone else’s opportunities with drumming.

More information on drumming can be found in the following articles. I found them most helpful in my research and with today’s blog.

Kathy

Disclaimer  -  The material provided on this site is designed for information and educational purposes only. The materials are not intended to be a self diagnostic and/or self treatment tool. I encourage you to use this information as a tool for discussing your condition with your health practitioner.