How did the Classic era piano differ from its predecessor, the harpsichord? Keep it up and others will learn of drummings wonderful healing properties too. Since I am doing some personal research on drumming and health, I wonder whether you might supply some citations for the research mentioned above. By accident, through a drum massage for chronic pain issues from Cyndi Boot from (www.rhythmicmemory.com), my ear opened up and I have been hearing from that ear ever since. Other then teaching the school students other art based projects, I added music into the mix. One tragedy, at least in Great Britain, is that funding for the arts is generally being cut at a time when more people need these benefits. Thank You.*. I have had a rough year, lost my job, death of a pet, family problems, car accident and some other minor issues. Thank you for sharing the benefits of drumming. A lot of people Ive spoken with are highly interested in drum therapy, for themselves or a loved one, including my sister, in which my nephew who is non-verbal and is on the spectrum. I just play! I know of some women your age that can life 165 pounds!!! We can see the path, but we cant travel it without you. I am also looking at getting a cajon, which might not suit someone with back problems but there is a model that you can sit across your lap. Thank you, and best wishes. Back when I began this journey, little was known about the drum, although this is not quite right because the traditional earth cultures have been using this instrument for many thousands of years for healing and shamanic work (as we know). For more than 50 years, Kripalu has been a leader in yoga- and mindfulness-based education. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine enrolled both middle-aged experienced drummers and a younger novice group in a 40-minute djembe drumming sessions. I am excited for other members to read it because you do such a beautiful job of explaining the dynamics. West African drumming is my passion. As for bass, guitar, or keyboard -- it's all about multitasking. If you've played in bands over the years, you probably already have a good idea of what you're . My name is Martin, I have been playing drums since I was 16 years old. In fact, in ancient cultures sacred drumming was performed by women. I think its great for anyone actually. I am also a drumming facilitator in Australia. Explore holistic health, spirituality, self-empowerment and the power of alternative and natural therapies in healing the body, mind, and spirit. now stick in the tongue blades, now stand up straighter? This could be because Indigenous people across the country use many of the same musical resources, such as one person or group singing the same melody . #drumsnotdrugs. We have drum circles on my 70 acre nature retreat an hour outside St. Louis around a fire and it completely restores the soul. Doing this for 15 years has also helped me get over shyness. , Christine, With the release of feel-good chemicals, increased energy, and physical and energetic balance, drumming leads to simply feeling really good and full of happiness. Thank you for serving too. She also goes into residential facilities, assisted living and nursing homes and has drum circles for the elderly and those with dementia and Alzheimers and she and the staff of those places see results. When I first started, I could barely do a roll up. Drumming plays a major role in disciplining and calming the mind in both Buddhism and martial arts. then you located primary issues that need addressing. A-game playing. A few years later when she was 15, and theres stepmother was in the process of dying from cancer Claire starts his drumming on the tabletop a very fast and well executed handover hand. After an hour or so, my neck feels like its burning, and goes tight and into a spasm. You might want to read up on it, to see if the symptoms sound like yours. Using my PC, a good mechanical keyboard, good quality headphones (or a good set of speakers), freely available on youtube drumless tracks of my favorite music and a program called DvDrum, I am having a blast sounding like I did with a full kit back in the day. HI Rick thank you SO much for this reply. I have had type 1 diabetes for 37 years now, but my body doesnt feel 37 years sick anymore. But i came across Dr Northrup site and read your article. Ive been playing hand drums Mostly djembe for over 20 years. Not having the room for a full drum kit, I started experimenting with a small drum pad keyboard sounds and sampled hits from my drum machine. We humans are herd creatures and we need each other. I dont have any formal training in music, but get asked to do work for people with letters after their name. I wouldnt be surprised if others will soon be joining in at the coffee house. Drummers are important in a band because they act as the timekeeper, lead many of the song transitions, and help build intensity with the volume. My skills on actual drums are on par..when im beaming Im double speed but even at a normal level my hands get extremely fast but its all about the groove. This is no extra cost to you, the purchaser. Very accurate and well written article. Ive noticed, as a result, my level of internal chatter and negative self talk is probably decreased by 50 to 25%. How / Where can I receive some training in how to actually lead Drum Therapy sessions? After only 15 minutes of drumming your mind will start to quieten and your body will start to feel release. I have lupus and my immune system is compromised. Kripalu experts and visiting faculty share their views on yoga, health and wellness, nutrition, relationships, creativity, and spirituality. Yours in Gratitude, Nadiya Nottingham Help. You can go to your local music store or purchase a drum online at http://www.x8drums.com. 1. CNN . maybe you just explained it. I started it because of a longing to get back to a feeling of tribe. More than just poses on a mat, we believe yoga is an accessible practice that inspires connection, compassion, and joy. I got my niece and drum when she was eight years old and taught her a few things Including the handover hand pattern which require should keep alternating between your right and left hand She used some . It works for me and I hope it works for you Our bodies have limits, man. I would think some people might get stimulated, and so this might not be a sleep remedy. The sharing of traditional knowledge, including drumming and drum making, is done through the passing of teachings from knowledge keeper to learner. Connected to the physical part of drumming is also keeping your toddler fit. Turns out they never even dated. The connection you feel to others in the drumming circle must also be good for mental health. The class that I finish in two weeks is Relaxation and Stress Reduction. So happy to see your post about this, and obvious endorsement of hand drumming. Ginger. That was a confirmation to me that I was also doing a good job. Drumming does return life to oneself and makes it even better I think. It is joyful, stress relieving and so much fun. I have been playing the djembe since around 2010. A little before 'Master of Puppets'. As a by product, I also experienced a feeling of wellbeing after longish sessions. Didnt say, I want to play the drums, have music class, etc. I play in a couple of Samba bands and I am establishing a project where I deliver facilitated drum circles to various at-risk groups. I very much need this type of therapy! And thank you SO much for this incredible gift to your students and to the planet. Sounds like a life changing service. What a joy! The steady beat of Theta drumming is a powerful tool for brain health because, by the very nature of its constant rhythm, it permeates the entire brain, bringing both hemispheres into rhythmic balance. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, dietary supplement, exercise, or other health program. Over the past 10 years, I am proud to say we have raiser over $60,000 for a variety of needy families and worthy organizations. You have captured the experience so beautifully. Then I bought a jemba (spelling?) I go once a week but if they offered more I would be there. Thank you, Jean, a group of us in Eau Claire recently took a class and made our own drums. I began hand drumming in a drum circle after toxic mold exposure turned my life upside down with chronic fatigue, insomnia and numerous other health deficits. I have been playing the drums for about 5 months now and I will tell you emphatically that I am thinking better and FEELING a sense of love in my heart, a rhythmic flow to my life and overall improvement being able to think a little quicker I was displaying symptoms of an 80 year old but now I am feeling younger and younger. Im excited!!!! At times it feels like time slows down and Im much more in touch not just with the music but life itself. So moving reading your story ,many blessings ..Im so happy to have drumming in my life. When the brain changes from Beta waves (concentration) to Alpha waves, you feel calm and relaxed. Im going to try and find a group here in the Eau Claire WI area. I majored in music at Shepherd College and Berklee College of Music. Then she entered the Hit Like A Girl international drumming contest in 2018 at age eight. I AM CAREGIVING MY SICK HUSBAND AND FIND THAT WHEN IM IN MY DRUMMING CIRCLE I AM OUT OF MY ANXIETY OVER HIS ILLNESS. And it has the possibility to benefit people with a wide range of symptoms. I am now 57 years old, but I feel beaten by aches & pains, associated with my drumming. I offer an online program that teaches people how to play the frame drum an ancient womens drum and have included this writing in my program! The ENT doctor arranged for a hearing aid and I wasnt ready to give up. Math skills increase with drumming over time as do all mental functions. System also. He was a drummer who always strived to make his performance exceptional. Its like a meditation with your whole being in synch and totally in the moment. Dear Tania, For our final project we are to design and present our own stress reduction program. That puts me told me in the present moment and absolutely prevents me from thinking about the past or worrying about the future For the whole time that Im playing. TM and Copyright @ 20012023 Christiane Northrup, Inc. All rights reserved. All rights reserved. If you can hunt and peck while typing on a computer keyboard, then you may be able to drum and sound just as good as everor really close. Dont give up drumming! Finally, drumming can induce a natural high by increasing Alpha brain waves. I attended a drumming workshop with Sufi master Adnan Sarhan a few years ago, but did not pursue drumming or dancing at the time. 57 Interlaken Road Terms of Use.*. Thanks for taking the time to share the benefits of drumming with us! (I know! The powerful and compelling rhythm of drums can still and focus the mind the quick path to mindfulness. This is why you might see a flicker pounding on a metal power pole or your house siding - to make the loudest sound he can, not to look for food or drill a hole, but to make a statement. Reduce Blood Pressure, Anxiety/Stress. So much so that our annual holiday traditions are now drum circles. Anthropologist Michael Harner, founder of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, did pioneering work in the 1960's and 70's in studying the effects of drumming. Our group is part of a worldwide movement dispelling these myths and encouraging women to step up to the drum! While some aspects of playing the drums tend to be fairly easy to grasp, other things may take years to get a grip on. Drumming also functions in interspecific communication when prey animals drum to communicate to predators that they are too alert for a successful ambush. Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health. How To Improve Your Gut Microbiome In A Day, 8 Ways to Turn Your Empathy into A Super Power, 13 Habits to Protect Yourself from The Dangers of 5G Radiation. I did. I got a drum from my daughter for my birthday and I practice everyday. M utua, just 29 years old, has been fighting gender barriers and cultural stereotypes in the field of percussion her entire career. I am studying to be a teacher and i am currently doing an assignment. Okay, so Yoyoka Soma took off in popularity a couple of years ago. DRUMS from HEAVEN has provided venues for the purpose of raising funds for selected charitable causes. His E.A.teacher asked if it was alright, the gym teacher and myself agreed he could come in, so the E.A. My original facilitator also taught us Afro-Cuban rhythms which I love. Your experience will help so many people. I am wondering if you could share the references for the research done on the physical transmission of rhythmic energy to the brain actually synchronizes the left and right hemispheres. Their blood pressure, blood lactate and . Great subject, Dr. Northrup. All it needed was a fire burning in the circle. This is the truth! Don't let the speed get away from you, or you'll ruin everyone's day. Makes you happy. After three years of kickboxing training which was the toughest training I have ever experienced and I became incredibly strong and fit, I have taken up pole dancing. I hope you can continue to enjoy and revel in the amount of physical power that you have . Ive made wonderful lifetime friends and we laugh so much sometimes my face hurts! Drum on oh Heavenly TOMMY PURPLE HAZE!! PO Box 309 Best of wishes with it. Arthur Hull has training as well. I arrange performance pieces and lead/perform in several different groups. A lot of times that I came in an E.A. Modern Taiko History. Oh this is SO GOOD!! We want to use of the phone lines so pain gets a busy signal- caveat, it works for about 3 minutes. Love love love love love this! Christiane. left. Even metronomes do it. I have a brain injury from a brain tumor and late effect of epilepsy. Sexual selection in spiders shows how sexual selection explains the evolution of phenotypic traits in spiders. I am going to have my own home soon..I will hire a drumming guide..at least once a month..for the entire family.. The most important thing we are doing is communicating and making one another feel good. I listen to hip-hop, R&B and pop music and this beat . Contact Heather or Deb at the Soulstice Wellness center. You can catch a glimpse here. I work with folks from 2 to 102 in many settings- schools, mental health, ECE, cancer recovery, memory care, senior living etc. level 1. I always feel energized during (and afterr) the spiritual drummimg groups I attend! Thanks for this wonderful comment. For those of us who have experienced a drum circle we know the rewarding feeling we all get when we participate. She told me that god was telling her to reach out to him. It burns calories. Anyway, we are now in process of forming a regular drumming group. I discovered drumming (specifically, the djembe, a hand drum from West Africa) in 2009 at a caregivers conference and immediately signed up for classes. Drumming is a powerful form of yoga. An introduction to the Drumming Circle is being offered at my local Senior Center. My wife and I have been thinking of getting our son into a new hobby while he is in high school so he doesnt get into any worse habits. (reciprocal learning) My mom who sings in a choir of Angels at her church had a crush on the bands drummer. It clears negativity and is anti-bacterial I believe too. Thank you. Its physics. According to a recent study, the cabling that . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v5eBf2KwF8https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v5eBf2KwF8, Feel free to reference this blog. Certified Reiki Master and Drummer. Plan Your Spring Retreat > | View On Campus FAQs > | Donate Today >. Thank you for sharing! Playing drums can relieve frustration, disappointment, and stress. I suspect you have a very creative and unusual brain structure. #25. Your use of and/or visitation to the Web site signifies your agreement to CNIs Terms of Use and CNIs Privacy Policy. I listen to shamanic drumming regularly, when seeking insight, or as a healing tool when Im emotionally stirred. Its interesting, isnt it how often ones family doesnt share ones passion even when its so clearly beneficial and fun. Given a little encouragement they brighten up, lighten up and have an experience of being worthy and appreciated. African music is a total art form closely integrated with dance, gesture and dramatization. It makes a world of different. These are questions that have puzzled exercise scientists for some time, and studies have not confirmed one way or the other whether exercise will make your skin look younger. I have chronic pain from a pinched nerve (sciatic) in my back. Holistic Healing. -focus When you play the drum, you're gone. Keith Moon describes himself as the "greatest Keith Moon-Type Drummer in the world.". He held the mic tapped out three beats on the mic, said a couple of words, tapped three beats, said his words, he done this amazing song for us before the rest of the class came in. Its good exercise for the brain, as it requires conscious effort tol isten to the music and pick up the beat. -creativity It feels absolutely great! Feel free to reach out! But you have to surrender . And if that means . The class was held back to finish their math, although one student from the class that was on the spectrum got to come in. There may be other known injury, these may contribute as well, and all of this may also cause a dystrophic state (kind of a neurology is in over its head so it freaks out in levels type of thing). multiple drummers can create thick, interlocking rhythmic textures. My point is that I dont believe that you necessarily need to wield a full drum kit to feel the benefits. You are just getting better at playing the drum, sweating, and burning calories. Several years ago I started Reiki drumming which proved to be a huge benefit for those who came in for reiki. Most of my drums are made by Toca percussion. Also a sense of self-confidence. But during this time I was able to join an all female drumming band (Batala) and every Saturday morning nothing else matters but hitting my drum. I never knew about all the wonderful things drumming can do. but after a few years it ended up in the back of her closet years Hi Dr. Northrup, A power that helps you exist in this world. If the teacher or facilitator is aware, she/he will draw out the participants genius, whatever level they are at, and foster their contribution to drumming as something of value. thanks again for putting this out there, its the best kept secret around in my opinion. All types of drums and percussion can create such a special blend, its like nothing else. There is a health insurer in Pennsylvania that also bought drums as part of a getting healthy program for seniors. We are based in Oakland, CA. I loved playing Rock n Roll, Heavy Metal, Punk, Classic Rockstuff like that. I was beginning to lose hope. Students enjoy the interactive therapy session that reduces, tension, stress and anxiety, and is highly beneficial for those with; ADHD, ADD, Autism, and neurological disorders. I wish I could get the whole world drumming, but I cant even get my own family interested. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v5eBf2KwF8https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v5eBf2KwF8, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11191041, https://www.scribd.com/document/28220586/Therapeutic-Effects-of-Drumming, https://web.facebook.com/MCPS.Bathurst/videos/618667091615391/, https://www.facebook.com/lesfemmesdekissidugu/, Why Your Psoas Muscle Is The Most Vital Muscle in Your Body. And yes it is incredibly difficult. Drums are the music instrument that African music relies heavily upon to create the fast-paced, upbeat, rhythmic beat that signifies most African music. From your constantly beating heart to the rhythm of your breath to the rhythm of brainwaves to the rhythm of your walking, just for startersyou cant help being full of rhythm. And thank you Dr. Northrup for writing about this! I have loved the drums for a very long time. Drumming has been proven in human clinical research to do the following six things: 1. I think its key to find what resonates with you be it djembe, conga, synthetic or natural, shakers, bells, etc., etc. I now use both grips, because each has its own advantages. https://powerdrummingcanada.com/. The band i play in ,classic rock you know. So happy its helped you. My son is getting older and I want to get him a hobby! I know I have a bad posture, and I am trying to keep upright. For many people, the challenge is that, somewhere along the way, weve been cut off from our outward expression of rhythm. riskylogic, Sep 11, 2017. Hi I cant concentrate much but by playing the drum I can sit for 2 hrs almost everyday. Amazing about that health insurer. I am obsessed w the health benefits of drumming! Thanks !! You strike me as someone who will not give up!!! They carry both emotional and physical stress in the bodies, working with the drum is a very non-invasive way of providing healing. Reading this gave me the chills. Its a more peaceful type of playing, somewhat meditating. I never knew that drumming can make one smarter alongside being able to heal physically and emotionally. Michael Drake wrote the above, almost verbatim back in 2006. The drum is THE universal instrument, for reasons that are both known and unknown. My husband chuckled at my lack of rhythm, but I did get better over time. I have been in drumming circles, drummed for entertainment, and drummed for healing for the past 20 years. Check this out!! I would like to hear more of your success. I know the healing power of drumming. Im a drum student and a drum teacher. Im so grateful to have found my passion! "Some days I feel so over it, almost to the point of apathy," Williams told The Guardian, "but that's the struggle that you have to fight." I see this especially with the ex-cons as they come broken and self-loathing often. Thank you SO much for sharing this here. If it is okay I would love to quote you on my website as some further reading for my students and parents. The pain part regarding chronic pain, not acute injury- we only feel pain that is second third or fourth tier; our system is designed to block the primary pain by avoidance, distortion, etc.. so the pain that is causing the distorted posture is not felt by you directly and if the posture involves a forward and or rotated head we have a short list. W.A. "Kumi-daiko" literally means a taiko ensemble that consists of various taikos. I added elements that are both beneficial and create the love for music. NOT SURE. Anyway, that whole time I drummed where and when I could, but I have two shoulders that spontaneously pop out of the sockets if I move them wrong and the pain I feel is about an 11/10 when that happens. I slept so deeply after it. I believe it never too late to start. I agree that yours is most likely tensor tympani syndrome, which is like a muscle spasm in the ear. We have a womens percussion performance group so between classes and practices I probably drum 5 days a week. I am also an Army veteran and have been facilitating percussion /drum/music therapy groups and classes at the VA and several special education schools for many years. This should not discourage anyone from drumming. Drum making workshops last one to four days, depending on how much of the work has already been done for you. Cheri, I want to thank you for drumming with people that have dementia and Alzheimers. Drumming seems like the outlier to me. Wish me luck! Although very different, I love that too. It's a part of the turkey hunting experience that can drive normally sane . With drumming and yoga combined, the healing effects and positive benefits are exponential. The drums can be both musical instruments and works of art, sculptural forms that are often decorated in a resplendent manner suited to their . African drums have played an important role in in traditional African communities for communication purposes like emergency meetings, announcing war, the beginning and finish of harvest seasons and the death of important people in their respective societies like kings and chiefs. the power of music and drumming within a fitness class is revolutionary. I received a drum massage a few years ago. Not only does Paramore speak to the apathy of the times without sweeping grief under the rug, but This Is Why finds a new . Patty Aulik I cant wait to share this information with the members at my studio. How do I learn to teach drum therapy sessions, Bad side of breathing drum skins in a closed ac room, The Therapeutic and Social Benefits of Drumming. Drumming is an outlet for energy. I am writing a dissertation on the experience of live music and its therapeutic effects. By clicking Submit below, or otherwise using or visiting www.DrNorthrup.com, you hereby agree to all of the terms and conditions set forth in Christiane Northrup, Incs Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. I know drumming is healing and that pattern was in the back of her head and she brought it out at a time when she needed it. I have been Drumming since I saw Ringo Starr with the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show. 3. And also for including the link. So that means usually once or twice a week for two hours I am totally concentrating On my timing and the pattern on playing. Rhythm is that which is unseen but felt. (As the room will be closed and the A/C will be on).Please help me out. Every word Dr. Northrup says and more is true What about the neighbors who have to listen to this drumming banging going on across the street. What I love about the djembe is that at this point I dont have to think or concentrate. I believe this is a most wonderful idea. Its can only be good. Since they were trusted and respected in the community we were all invited to a community feast and drumming celebration. The men drum and the women dance in our Goddess power. Patty Aulik, Director Which three types of compositions were dominant in the Renaissance? I am so happy for your Kristina! But you are not getting any of the health benefits of exercise while playing the drums. It was so interesting that his heart rate increased above 100 BPM just hearing the drums (not yet playing and marching). Jaw. Hi Christiane, All funds raised, minus costs are turned over to that charitable need. I have severe PTSD from the military and I am a female. I already had 6 drums but making my own is also so wonderful! Boosted immune system and more positive emotions. Close off openings on the sides to prevent birds from becoming trapped between . Drumming is so beneficial, Im glad you found a way to still partake in it, even if you are a self-proclaimed asocial introvert. There are 2 women I know of in Florida, however. Drumming also appears to synchronize the lower areas of the brain (non-verbal) with the frontal cortex (language and reasoning).