Drumming in a group or drum circle has been found to have therapeutic benefits for individuals who have experienced trauma. The repetitive rhythm of drumming can help to regulate the body’s nervous system and bring a sense of calm and grounding to the participant. Additionally, drumming in a group setting allows individuals to connect with others and feel a sense of community and belonging, which can be particularly important for those who have experienced trauma and isolation. The physical act of drumming can also be cathartic and provide a release for pent-up emotions. But what is the science behind it?
Studies have shown that drumming can have a positive impact on the brain. Researchers found that drumming can lead to the release of endorphins, which are chemicals that can reduce pain and create a sense of euphoria. Additionally, drumming has been found to increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Drumming can also help to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One study found that veterans who participated in drumming therapy had a significant reduction in symptoms of PTSD, including a decrease in nightmares and flashbacks.
The social aspect of drumming in a group or drum circle can also be beneficial for healing trauma. Studies have shown that individuals who participate in group drumming experience an increase in feelings of social cohesion and trust. This can be particularly important for individuals who have experienced trauma and isolation.
Furthermore, drumming has also been shown to have benefits beyond healing trauma. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that drumming can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The study found that “participants who engaged in drumming therapy had a significant reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as an improvement in motor symptoms.”
Another study, published in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology, found that drumming can improve mood and cognitive function in older adults. The study found that “participants who engaged in regular drumming sessions showed an improvement in mood and cognitive function, including memory and attention.”
A study published in the Journal of Music Therapy found that drumming can also improve physical rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with neurological conditions. The study found that “participants who engaged in drumming therapy had a significant improvement in physical rehabilitation outcomes, including improved motor function and reduced pain.”
Lastly, drumming can be a lot of fun. The act of drumming can be a great way to relax, de-stress and feel good. The fun and playful nature of drumming can help to create a positive and uplifting experience for participants, which can be especially beneficial for those who have experienced trauma.
In conclusion, drumming in a group or drum circle can be an effective way to heal trauma, and the science behind it has shown that it has many positive effects on the body and mind. It can also be beneficial for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, older adults, those with neurological conditions, and for overall relaxation and stress reduction. The social aspect of drumming in a group can also be important for building community and feelings of belonging.
“20 Compelling Reasons to Join a Drum Circle: The Power of Rhythmic Healing”
- Regulates the body’s nervous system: Drumming helps to regulate the body’s nervous system, bringing a sense of calm and grounding to the participant.
- Releases pent up emotions: The physical act of drumming can be cathartic and provide a release for pent up emotions.
- Reduces symptoms of PTSD: Studies have shown that drumming can reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans.
- Increases production of endorphins: Drumming has been found to lead to the release of endorphins, which can reduce pain and create a sense of euphoria.
- Improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression: Drumming has been found to increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
- Builds community and feelings of belonging: Drumming in a group setting allows individuals to connect with others and feel a sense of community and belonging, especially important for those who have experienced trauma and isolation.
- Improves physical rehabilitation outcomes: A study published in the Journal of Music Therapy found that drumming can improve physical rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with neurological conditions.
- Enhances cognitive function: A study published in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology found that drumming can improve mood and cognitive function in older adults.
- Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that drumming can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
- Provides a fun and playful experience: The act of drumming can be a great way to relax, de-stress and feel good.
- Boosts immune system: Research has found that drumming can boost the immune system by increasing levels of antibodies and immune cells.
- Increases feelings of social cohesion and trust: Studies have shown that individuals who participate in group drumming experience an increase in feelings of social cohesion and trust.
- Improves self-esteem and confidence: Participating in a drum circle can improve self-esteem and confidence, especially for those who may have experienced trauma.
- Creates a positive and uplifting experience: The fun and playful nature of drumming can help to create a positive and uplifting experience for participants.
- Reduces stress and promotes relaxation: The repetitive rhythm of drumming can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Improves sleep: Research has found that drumming can improve sleep, especially for individuals with sleep disorders.
- Increases creativity: Drumming has been found to increase creativity and stimulate the imagination.
- Promotes mindfulness and focus: The repetitive rhythm of drumming can promote mindfulness and focus.
- Provides a sense of accomplishment: Participating in a drum circle can provide a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of mastery.
- Supports overall physical and mental well-being: Drumming can support overall physical and mental well-being, promoting holistic health and healing.
Looking to experience the therapeutic and uplifting power of rhythm? Check these out…
In Calgary:
Circles of Rhythm’s Community Drum Circle is the perfect opportunity for you. Every Friday night from January until June 2023, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, individuals can come together at the Inglewood Community Hall, 1740 24 Ave SE, Calgary, AB, to drum, connect, and heal in a supportive and fun environment.
https://www.circlesofrhythm.com/
In Edmonton:
Connect with Marcus Fung… who has been offing various classes, workshops and sessions for over 15 years.
Various Western Canadian Locations:
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, WUB Retreats offers a unique opportunity to join a community of drummers and connect with nature. With the next retreat just a click away at https://wubgathering.com/, this is a chance not to be missed for anyone looking to delve deeper into the world of drumming, its many benefits, and a lot more!
