Health Benefits of Drum Circles
Music is a universal language, one that has been used for thousands of years as an avenue to healing. Research shows that music can be helpful in chronic pain management, stress relief, mood improvement, and possibly even with brain stimulation and memory.
That is why the Celebrations 2008 series, Music of Our Lives is so exciting! As part of that series, we are introducing Brookdale Beats, which is designed as a monthly drum circle activity. Drum circles are the making of music using drums, in which everyone participates. Drums are a wonderful way for anyone, regardless of musical training or knowledge to make music.
Drums have been in use as a ceremonial and festive communication tool for centuries and are considered to the “instrument of the people”. All of life has an underlying rhythm that connects us to one another. Recalling the natural rhythms of the body, namely the beating heart, drum circles help us to connect with deeper rhythms and thus bring about healing.
Drum circles are a fun inclusive event in which the participants make music together and share in a joy filled experience. The “feel-good” chemicals that are released during such an experience can have a positive impact on health. Participants may experience benefits similar to those of practicing yoga, aerobics or meditation.
Studies show that older Americans who are actively involved in music making show improvements in anxiety, loneliness, and depression-three factors that are critical in coping with stress, stimulating the immune system, and improving health. One recent study done especially with drum circles demonstrated improvements in the number of circulating “killer cells” that seek out and destroy cancer cells and virally-infected cells.
Participation in a drum circle is appropriate for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Everyone will find the experience to be fun, energizing and enlightening. In addition to all of the benefits previously mentioned, drum circles help participants to be in the moment, increase circulation and help with motor skills.
Research done on stroke victims suggests that drumming can have some impact on the speech center of the brain, helping to improve language skills. For those who may have lost verbal abilities, drumming gives them an avenue for communication. Although drum circles are often used for those with disabilities, they are not only for the ill or infirmed.
Drum circles are being used widely as a wellness activity for people in all walks of life. The drum circle is an equalizer, bringing everyone to the same level. Bring everyone to the drum circle and see how much fun it will be to have young and old, healthy and infirmed people all together.
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