MARCHING TO THE BEAT OF THE DRUM
Thursday 10 August, 2017
Rhythmic drumming can aid health by inducing a deep sense of relaxation, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. From the recent drum circle craze to the therapeutic application of group drumming, Real Life Options decided to get involved and see what all the fuss is about.
The first HealthRHYTHMS® Group Empowerment Drumming day was held at the Real Life Options Stockton office with multiple sessions throughout the day. The day utilised the ground-breaking, research-based, group drumming program developed by Remo and was attended by a great number of people we support. “It’s not really about the drumming, but more using the drum as a vehicle for communication and personal expression. Music has no barriers – it is a universal language of its own,” said Dean Kitching, the Sound Practitioner from Sound Intention who facilitated the day.
There are a whole host of great benefits to drumming from improving mood to reducing anxiety and stress and enhancing wellbeing and relaxation. Some research has shown it even boosts the immune system. Drumming is also very accessible and so it doesn’t require advanced physical abilities or verbal communication, making it ideal for all of the people supported by Real Life Options and all the staff too!
The exciting day utilised a range of different instruments including an assortment of drums, such as the West African Djembe, gongs, chimes, rainsticks and Tibetan bowls. The fun group drumming sessions were immensely enjoyable, with people we support and staff alike relishing the opportunity to introduce themselves by drumming their name and taking part in various drumming activities, before culminating in a brilliant group drum rendition of We Will Rock You!
The drumming proved overwhelmingly successful, with lots of great success stories from the day, such as Ian who leaped at the chance to lead his group and took great pride in using the special gathering drum in the grand finale. “Ian doesn’t usually interact in large groups. He constantly wants to get away from the social situation or gets distracted about what his housemates are doing,” explained Ian Wilkie, Support Worker. “I saw a huge change in him today. I really didn’t think he would want to stay but he started interacting straight away. It was great to see him enjoying himself so much.”
So there you have it! Who knew the simple drum could be the gateway to so many positive health benefits? If you’re interested in giving drumming a go speak to your Service Manager or Area Manager who can check out local groups in your area.
Want to know more?
More information about the health benefits of drumming can be found on the Remo website: www.remo.com. Or contact Andrew Wilkinson on 01642 636602 to find out how to get involved.
