Doing this for 15 years has also helped me get over shyness. I recently moved to the United States, between Detroit and Port Huron Michigan. I recently joined a drumming circle that meets right after my NIa dance class (also new to me) and love it. The men drum and the women dance in our Goddess power. This is called coherence. So much so, that I started a program called Rhythm Kids for young children in hopes that they could have the experience that took me too long to discover. I love it so much. Example, every time we play La Bamba by Richie Valenz. Ive noticed, as a result, my level of internal chatter and negative self talk is probably decreased by 50 to 25%. Jaw. Drumming is so beneficial, Im glad you found a way to still partake in it, even if you are a self-proclaimed asocial introvert. Thank you for this great comment. Hi Dr. Northrup, thank you so much for all of your wisdom! In Defense OfLars Ulrich's Drumming - AlexRox.com Autism treatments: Playing the drums may benefit patients with a wide 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. As Roger Daltrey has pointed out in intervie. A virus 3 years prior left me deaf in my right ear. If ever you come to Australia we will happily run a drum circle for you. Hey, MartinI, too, am almost 57 yrs old and, like you, picked up the drums when I was 16. The constant movement of the upper body and lower body limbs make for prime fitness activity. Whishing you all the best. I was quite athletic as a child and young adult, I never learned how to play any instrument. I started playing percussion in a band about 9 years ago and began experimenting with different techniques to help kids with ADHD issues. https://powerdrummingcanada.com/. It is always good to read about the benefits of group rhythm circles for all kinds of populations. I have carried on a lineage passed down to me. A sure sign of truth. Christiane. All the the best to you on your drum journey. I love it. Makes you happy. Blessings, Julie. PO Box 309 When doctors come on board to reiterate and validate what us field practitioners have been experiencing, sharing and practicing for many years, it makes our role and our job a little easier. Im sure that with a bit of research you could find something rhythmically satisfying without having to resort to a full kit. I even use shamanic drumming in my sound healing sessions because it opens the heart chakra. Lovely sound. Its all available to you. I ordered padded drum bags which fit perfectly so were ready to go to our next workshop. It helps control chronic pain. Mind, body, inner rockstar! Melanie. We also have a singing group specifically for Parkinsons people, so Im keeping busy. How Does the West African Talking Drum Accurately Mimic Human Speech Ive used it for special needs students. We have maintained the same Native American-based drum circle in south Florida for over ten years now, as well as others. I now use both grips, because each has its own advantages. Technically speaking, he wasn't very impressive at all. When I bust out on the practice pad my hands get super quick. I play music from my I pad from u tube and record it on my phone. Drum on! For those who are ready to reclaim this birthright (or exercise it more! I have severe PTSD from the military and I am a female. Drumming isn't an experience that "only" music therapists can use. Thank you for popping that bubble for me. Make new friends. The difficulty here is this info is driven by a few pathways; pain & neuro reflexes being the primary ones. Performing drummers and dancers recognize how music and changes in music effect each other. Its physics. Try classical Pilates. I am about to release a set of workshops I have developed focused on using hand drumming circles to help kids with ASD. I turned 80 in September and try to stay active with exercises like spinning and yoga, so Im very interested in finding out what the Drumming Circle entails and hoping it doesnt include quick movements that will irritate my chronic painful sciatic nerve. Drumming is a powerful form of yoga. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Regards It motivated me to get out and go drumming again. If you need help, ask a friend expert DJEMBE tuner! The science behind drumming is now being revealed with enough scientific and anecdotal evidence collated and collected to validate what I myself and many other early rhythm practitioners have been expousing for many many years. And I keep getting stronger and more flexible. I actually linked back to this article from my blog, as I run a drumming website. Should I Still Be Menstruating at Age 55? Drumming is an outlet for energy. CNN . 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. I live in Lakeland, Florida. I suspect you have a very creative and unusual brain structure. Love the hashtag: #drumsnotdrugs Brilliant. It clears negativity and is anti-bacterial I believe too. I love what I do!! She just said to me oh I just do this in study hall all the time .. I have gone to a few drumming circles with different leaders. I am about your age and I have allowed my mind to tell me Im too old to try pole dancing. I first learned traditional grip and later switched to matched grip. I will share your link too! In defence of Ringo Starr - a masterful drummer and the Beatles' unsung Indigenous cultures intertwine drumming, singing and dancing into their societies' political and social fabric. Primarily through the drumming of Stewart Copeland. Good luck. There are way to many benefits of drum therapy to mention. 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. She is a goddess of joy who inspires everyone around her with her drum facilitation and improvisation work! I love that I shared the link to your article with our Drum Maker who coordinates our group. In theory, the instruments in the backing track should be in time to the click, however, as a drummer the click should always be . A lot of times that I came in an E.A. Kripalus evidence-based resilience program, RISE, is anchored in the science of mindfulness, yoga, and positive psychology. I have been participating in these Native American Drumming Circles since 2007. Maybe next time Ill share a bite of perspective of the drum through my Ojibwe culture. I go once a week but if they offered more I would be there. It's important when doing this to focus on the click and not the instruments. Ive been a fan of yours Dr. Northrup for some time and am so thankful to have found this article. Drumming has also been used therapeutically since ancient times. But i came across Dr Northrup site and read your article. My work had morphed into therapeutic drumming and I agree with your 10 benefits. The class was held back to finish their math, although one student from the class that was on the spectrum got to come in. (I know! 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. Keith Moon and John Bonham were street brawlers, but Charlie was the silent hit man you'd never notice until he put you away. There is a health insurer in Pennsylvania that also bought drums as part of a getting healthy program for seniors. Sometimes I brought my vintage p.a. 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. I look forward to doing more good work in the neerby communities if any are interested. The drums speaking heart to heart has created such a bond with these people, they are like family. So I would say, it has NOTHING to do with your age. Some people may learn these things faster than others thanks to their natural sense of rhythm. Science and Psychology: Drumming as Therapy for Both Mind and Body I hope I could reference your article while Im presenting if its fine with you. And I get to hear from people how children with emotional issues are focused, happy and engaged. I would probably be hiding under my bed feeling hopeless if it werent for those rehearsals. I loved them. Cheri, I want to thank you for drumming with people that have dementia and Alzheimers. Im in my 50s, in really great health, and Im still rockin! Wow! multiple drummers can create thick, interlocking rhythmic textures. It requires thought and muscle control that other musicians dream about. Im in an all-wimmin drum troupe that gathers weekly to practicethey quickly became my soul sisters. I attend 3 hours of classes weeklyjust can hardly get enough of this wonderful, ancient practice. I love my work and the opportunities I am given to serve. I use African drums (Djembes) and a Native American drum with a mallet. My music program is a performing art music program, which incorporates together both; drum therapy and dance movement therapy combined. Good on you Christine, I have quite a few of your books and love your work. The Pioneer Woman's husband broke his neck following a car accident in March. Then I bought a jemba (spelling?) THAT IS WONDERFUL. It burns calories. Im so grateful to have found my passion! The Health Benefits of Beating Your Own Drum. 6. Here is a quick vid of what some of the kids thought https://web.facebook.com/MCPS.Bathurst/videos/618667091615391/, wow i just love this ..i created a format called DRUMBA and it came about to help my mother who has parkenisons and it has made a world of difference.Allthe drum formats are really taking off Drumns Alive ..Drum Fit .Pound. I totally concur the benefits above, on their behalf too. There are 2 women I know of in Florida, however. For jazz drummers, how hard is the song 'Caravan' (whiplash - Quora Drumming can have positive effects on your health and may help with many conditions from stress, fatigue, and anxiety, to hypertension, asthma, chronic pain, arthritis, mental illness, addiction, and even cancer. (reciprocal learning) Certified Reiki Master and Drummer. Thank you. Your use of and/or visitation to the Web site signifies your agreement to CNIs Terms of Use and CNIs Privacy Policy. Fast Drumming in My Ear | Tinnitus Talk Support Forum Calling it a BS DOESNT HELP!) Most specifically within the past five or six years Ive started playing very regularly with drummers were better than me. http://www.thevillagedrumLLC.com, Thank you dear Dr. N. This is such a life affirming piece. Thank you for helping spread the word. Math skills increase with drumming over time as do all mental functions. Drumming is so powerful for overall health for several reasons, the main ones being: It reduces feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. A power that moves you emotionally through our 5 senses. All types of drums and percussion can create such a special blend, its like nothing else. Thank you. Brilliant. Hi Martin. If you are having sleep breathing issues like hypopnea or apnea (take an oximetry test or buy a contec o2 monitor on eBay ) and have low O2 during the night the upper neck tension and jaw tension will continue, another separate conversation hope that helps as a framework for guidance. To request permission to reprint, please email editor@kripalu.org. It's a huge advantage to have, whether you're starting a solo project or putting demos together to take to a band. I just recently started a drum circle which I hope will continue to grow. When you're sitting at the throne, leaning back into a backrest will cause all kinds of technique problems. Explore upcoming programs led by Kripalu faculty and expert presenters on topics ranging from yoga to societal and personal transformation. As your article highlights a drumming program also beneficial for nearly everyone, but am hoping the communication and sensory aspects of my program will benefit people on the spectrum significantly. This event is for ANYONE interested in our casual, free, fun, drumming / music circles on the beach by the Pier (left side), North Carolina. This integration produces feelings of insight and certainty. Christiane Northrup, M.D., is a visionary pioneer and a leading authority in the field of womens health and wellness. 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. Explore the different ways to support Kripalu. I am a believer in the healing power of drumming and thankful for the experience. I would like to hear more of your success. Any drum, in my humble opinion, will do. Percussion is an exciting and health boosting activity which is noted by the scientific community for its ability to alleviate modern day stresses. This is why the drum is played so often in powwows and spiritual and religious ceremonies. Which three types of compositions were dominant in the Renaissance? It makes a world of different. Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond's Husband Didn't Wear Neck Brace - Peoplemag And most importantly drumming is important because anything that matters to you becomes important. I dont have any formal training in music, but get asked to do work for people with letters after their name. Keeping Fit. Rather than take up space here, if you are interested in some of the experiences of participants, follow this link: https://mixedblood.info/To_Drum_article.html. Thank you for sharing this work. And so your method really speaks to me. I took some pole dancing classes a while ago. Through the efforts of about 100 people, drummers and or dancers alike, we came together for an extraoidinary night of percussion. More than just poses on a mat, we believe yoga is an accessible practice that inspires connection, compassion, and joy. 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 . I now sage smudge my home too since attending these workshops as sage is regularly burnt there. All because a student on the spectrum saw me packing up the instruments, as I was to slow to draw the stage curtains. So, when my husband, Shaun Laframboise, and I teach people to drum, we arent actually teaching them anything new, as much as we are helping them to remember an innate ability that is our birthright. It boosts brainpower and increases confidence levels. I have been a Drum Circle Facilitator for many years now and I am very excited to see that drumming has hit the mainstream globally! Answer (1 of 19): I'm not sure, but I think it may have something to do with his energy, without which, The Who's music wouldn't have had nearly the same impact it did, neither live or on record. This makes the kickboxing seem mild as you have to be so incredibly strong. Drumming is such an amazing release . Drumming has been proven in human clinical research to do the following six things: 1. So much so that our annual holiday traditions are now drum circles. With drumming and yoga combined, the healing effects and positive benefits are exponential. I havnt drank since then. We have the best time, everyone in class is great and Ive become a complete drumming junkie! Hi, The drumming I have done which was minimal was fabulous. You can get in touch with us at dianayoung@youngfishschool.com or rafish@youngfishschool.com We will create a new Website soon Thank you so much for your highly informative feature on the positive empowerment people can attain from drumming, RA Fish / Bob. The drumming I read about here looks like we would be sitting rather than moving in different positions around the ball we use for the drum in cardio. I am a drumming circle facilitator, promoting the holistic benefits of drumming within my community & felt compelled to comment. Come join us! Best of luck. Yet in reality, many 55+ are feeling several of the health benefits you describe above. As an HSP (highly sensitive person) I am generally uncomfortable in large gatherings. 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). 3. Your article is a fantastic exposure of the healing power of this modality! Review: Paramore, 'This Is Why' : NPR Hard to keep your mouth in front a microphone while beating the far edges of a kit. I cant concentrate much but by playing the drum I can sit for 2 hrs almost everyday. During this covid crisis and feeling very tense and negative, I looked him up on youtube. Cheers, -Ali B. I have directed many Samba groups for the last 20 years and all the benefits youve outlined have been there for me and my fellow musicians, from youngsters in primary schools to over 80s. "Bt drums, a very close relative of the dndn, use drum strokes as a code that translate into Yorb language," write the researchers in the study. I arrange performance pieces and lead/perform in several different groups. Others feel the rhythms penetrate through their bodies. I didnt know drumming could boost your immune system and increases your T-cell production. Ive facilitated drum circles and taught djembe classes. Its wonderful to see a respected medical professional advocate drumming! God bless you and the other people that also wrote in this column that they drum with the people who REALLY could use this. So that means usually once or twice a week for two hours I am totally concentrating On my timing and the pattern on playing. Michael Drake wrote the above, almost verbatim back in 2006. First, the women in the group are amazingly diverse but uniformly wonderful. Ginger. Its never too late to do anything. Everything you said about drumming is true. Within the past couple of years Ive done a little contract work. That was a confirmation to me that I was also doing a good job. Reduce Blood Pressure, Anxiety/Stress. THE FIRST MUSICAL INSTRUMENT.i really cant explain what the feeling is when i play certain songs. Even metronomes do it. ADDRESS: 101 W. Main Street, Sunset Beach NC. So cool. Because it's a pure art form. I designed a percussion based music program. I actuallyJust got home from a djembe lesson. Everyone who came felt the vibe of goodness. Best of wishes with it. Your experience will help so many people. Thank you, and best wishes. The dance gets my large muscles loose and my brain relaxed. I think we need some Thundergods in Portland Maine playing beside the Atlantic ocean. The backrest would have to extend halfway into the seat to connect with the lumbar area, and it doesn't. Sitting that far back in the throne also changes your balance points as to how you connect to the pedals. I started playing drums at an early age and played semi-pro for 10 years and sold my kit of drums aged 25 then I met my wife in 1977. Recently at a Special Needs Conference Ive had a chance to meet and talk with Temple Grandin, I gave her my methodology behind my music program, she told me, you could do good in a kids life. People can enjoy a relaxing and energizing time by participating in the drum and dance circle or watching and listening to the variety of world drum rhythms. And enjoy this service to humanity that you are providing! One year later, i have just read your article on drumming and music, i am interested what you have done in the past 12 months. At the age of 63 I fulfilled something on my bucket list, I started taking drum lessons! After an hour or so, my neck feels like its burning, and goes tight and into a spasm. I listen to shamanic drumming regularly, when seeking insight, or as a healing tool when Im emotionally stirred. I had seen doctors, including an ENT twice and audiologist. Now online, Kripalu offers a variety of teacher trainings and certifications to deepen your practice and share your passion with the world. Thank you so very much. The Beauty of playing a hand drum is amazing, the connection is so natural from the wood the drum came from and the skin thats on top that was made from an animal. I fell in love with Taiko drumming during an Obon festival I attended a few years ago. I am desperate to play again after a year off because of the following symptoms. Ill have to keep that in mind and find some drum lessons he would like! The drum is a member of the percussion group of musical instruments.In the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system, it is a membranophone. Ive since experienced physical and emotional healing from hand drumming, both personally and with private clients and groups of all ages. I love the sound and the joint participation and having our chief teaching us and how we can laugh whey we get it wrong but keep going.