Therapeutic Drumming

Research is now verifying the therapeutic effects of ancient rhythm techniques. Drumming accelerates physical healing, boosts the immune system and produces feelings of well-being, a release of emotional trauma, and reintegration of self.

Shamanic or Native American style drumming is most powerful as a prayerful device, as a way to touch your sacred circles of loved ones, family and friends in a unique and powerful way. A shamanic journey, using the drum, is just "visualized prayer."

There are a growing number of men gathering in groups to engage in drumming rituals. Richard Feinman (renowned late Nobel prize winning physicist) became an accomplished bongo player. However, men are not alone in taking to the drum to find inner peace and relaxation, women too have discovered the healing power of the drumbeat.

Although the focus or intent differs from culture to culture, rhythmic drumming invariably has the same power and effects in all traditions. The resonant qualities and attributes of these rhythmic phenomena are universal and come into play whenever we drum.

Using the energy of drumming requires focus, visualization, and intent. These three things can, when synchronized, with the rhythm of the energy you create when drumming, cause wonderful changes to happen all around you. Each tone the drum makes is a different vibration. Each vibration corresponds to an energy type. The nature of the combination of the tones and their rhythm and order all determine the type of energy you raise.

Brenda MacIntyre is a professional singer and healer incorporating Aboriginal drumming and chanting in her performances and speaking engagements. Her education comes from the elders in her Native community. She was given the spirit name "Medicine Song Woman" by an elder in the Native community of Toronto.