I facilitated Full Moon drumming circles for many years. And I always got the same comment or question when new people inquired about joining us. I've never drunk before and I don't know how to do it. The fact is, everyone knows how to drum. It's in our DNA. It is one of the oldest means of meditation, communication, healing and musical expression.
So I just to tell newcomers to relax, keep a steady beat and follow the leader. Nothing could be simpler. The health benefits of drumming are similar to the benefits of meditation, with a few added benefits. Here are some documented medical benefits of drumming. It reduces the hormones stress response helps with depression and boosts health. Participants in weekly music therapy with drumming with less anxious, less distressed and had higher self esteem.
Drumming increases natural killer cell activity, which therefore enhances the immune system. Remember that the nk or natural killer cells attack cancer and other cells that don't belong in your body. Alzheimer's patients who drum can connect better with loved ones. Research shows that the brain forms new neurological pathways when performing arts and music. rhythmic cues can help retrain the brain after stroke. drumming improves concentration.
And some hospitals take percussion instruments into patients rooms and invite them to play as a way of relieving pain and stress and helping them to engage socially As for psychological and physical benefits of drumming, UK researchers did a 10 week study of group drummers compared to non drummers. After 10 weeks, the drum group had significantly improved their mental health, there was a clear reduction in depression and anxiety. Physically, every member of the drumming group shifted from a pro inflammatory immune profile to anti inflammatory, thereby improving their immune system. Keep in mind the drums are sacred instruments often used in prayer and healing ceremonies. The elders teach that in most drums. The frame came from a tree that was formerly living and the skin came from an animal that was once alive and gave of itself for us to use.
So we should respect it that way. If you don't have a drone A rattle is an excellent substitute. It's also made from natural materials and represents the natural world. The elders teach that it's round like the earth, and the sound of the rattle represents the thunder, the natural element provided by the great spirit to purify the air and by shaking the rattle or getting the creator's attention. In our drumming circles there is usually silence in between drumming rounds because the peaceful energy created by the drumming, along with the unity of the circle is a beautiful meditation. The sound of stillness is the sound of the Divine.
The next two lessons include a PDF document with more teachings on the drum and a recording of me drumming. The drum beat comes from the Maya tradition. It is a drumbeat to honor the water. You can either listen or if you have a drum or rattle join in