Drumming

Dating back thousands of years, drumming and group rhythm techniques, have been used to promote healing and self-expression. The cooperative and inclusive nature of a drum circle promotes feelings of community and connectedness.

Rhythms of Life facilitates drum circles for a variety of ages and in many different settings, including: elementary and middle schools, addiction recovery centers, detention centers for incarcerated youth, and at retreats and conferences for businesses.

"The application of the technology of drumming is universal. This is because the language of the drum is universal, speaking to all people, worldwide, equally; and the act of drumming is a universally healing experience--it releases body tension, emotional stress, and mental fatigue." Arthur Hull, Author.

“The primitive drumming circle is emerging as a significant therapeutic tool in the modern technological age,” according to Michael Drake, a nationally recognized drummer and author. Current research has honed in on the physiological and psychological affects of drumming, backing up anecdotal research with facts. (Drumming Research)

You Can’t Beat the Benefits of Drumming

• Produces feelings of well-being
• Provides a release for emotional trauma
• Accelerates physical healing
• Boosts the immune system
• Releases stress
• Integrates right and left brain
• Promotes relaxation
• Breaks down barriers
• Energizes and motivates

“Drumming together as a group really takes the clients out of the ‘now’ and allows them to be free from their stresses, problems, and addictions for that period of time. After, I definitely see a more relaxed temporary state in our clients.”
Tom Nicholas, M.S.W., The Journey at Willowcreek

“The drumming brings our clients—who range in age from 19 to 70—together in unison. It also can bring out the lack of harmony allowing them to bring the rhythm back into unison. It is a nonverbal process that allows individuals to be in touch with themselves as well as begin to communicate with those around them through the rhythm…it serves as a diagnostic tool because you see how well an individual is functioning kinesthetically and whether they are having difficulty with neurological patterning.”

Patricia A. Toomey MS,ADTR,MS,LPC.
A Movement Psychotherapist and Licensed Professional Counselor