Drum Circle: Embracing the Rhythm of Life
Does the daily drumbeat of life seem overwhelming? Have you ever considered ACTUALLY beating a drum to that rhythm?
The 2024 Promoting Our Women Warriors all-day event in Casper, Wyoming, is providing women Veterans with the opportunity to do just that in a drum circle breakout session on Saturday, Aug. 3. (click on the link for details on the event.)
What is a drum circle?
On the surface, a drum circle is pretty much what it sounds like—people gathering together to tap, hit, shake or strike some type of drum to create a rhythmic beat. Besides encouraging self expression, these resonating beats are known to relieve stress and rejuvenate drummers.
And, don't worry, you don't need any experience or musical talent to take part.
VIDEO: “The therapy is in the groove”
"I'm in my head almost all the time... and when I come to drum it shuts the brain off."
"I love it, and I'm almost 90."
These are just a few of the statements by drummers--most of whom had no musical training--in this story from KCAL News, a CBS affiliate in Los Angeles.
https://youtu.be/C7UtfMvpFkc?si=vJRmsl4wpDdU23aq&t=12
So, is a drum circle worth trying?
Research has shown there are health benefits.
For instance, one 2016 study showed that drumming participants "showed decreases in depression and increases in social resilience" after six weeks. By week ten, "these had further improved, alongside significant improvements in anxiety and mental wellbeing." (1)
Besides the mental health benefits, the same study also indicated beneficial biological changes as well.
Another study, published in 2018, involved individuals and their caregivers. That study found that there were emotional, psychological and social dimensions of well-being" for both patients and their caregivers. (2)
Are there drum circles near me?
Drum circles are becoming more and more popular, prompting pop-ups of this healthy, fun and rewarding activity. Our VA health care system has pursued drum circles as part of inpatient therapeutic options and embraces the whole health value they bring to participants, so encourage Veterans in the community to seek out local opportunities.
References
(1) Fancourt D, Perkins R, Ascenso S, Carvalho LA, Steptoe A, Williamon A (2016) Effects of Group Drumming Interventions on Anxiety, Depression, Social Resilience and Inflammatory Immune Response among Mental Health Service Users. PLoS ONE 11(3): e0151136. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0151136
(2) Ascenso, S., Perkins, R., Atkins, L., Fancourt, D., & Williamon, A. (2018). Promoting well-being through group drumming with mental health service users and their carers. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2018.1484219