Shamanic Drumming, Group Drumming, and Sonic Driving
Riding the Beat of the Drum
Shamanists alter their states of consciousness, in order to perceive with a full range of senses. Drumming is one of the most common ways to make this shift. The drum is one of the most important tools used by shamans and shamanic practitioners. It’s less an object than a beloved partner in spiritual work, a being itself. Shamans use drums across the globe, and have for thousands of years. The drum is referred to as the shaman’s “horse” or “canoe,” as it is the vehicle that brings the shaman to the spiritual worlds.
Sonic Driving
Shamanic practice allows a tremendous amount of flexibility in connecting to the spirit world. Drumming, dancing, singing a power song, or being still are different ways to shift our attention from the material, ordinary aspects of life to what’s happening on the energetic or spiritual levels. Monotonous percussion sound, sometimes called “auditory driving” or “sonic driving” include a range of beats that is fairly consistent across cultures. Some studies have demonstrated that drumming shifts our brain wave states.
Kinds of Shamanic Drumming
Drums are used in different ways, historically and today. Here are a few ways that drumming can be part of a healing practice:
- Group drumming, ceremonies, drumming circles
- As a direct vehicle for healing
- To help shift states when embarking on a shamanic journey
Research - Health Benefits
Drumming of different kinds as been shown to improve health. Here are a few studies:
- Immune system boost
- Chronic pain
- Stress reduction
- Whole brain integration after neurological injury
- PTSD
- Depression
The beautiful rug you see in the background is by my friend, and extraordinary shamanic artist, Missy Stevens.
Shamanic Drumming, Group Drumming, and Sonic Driving
Get Shamanic Drum Track
The beautiful rug you see in the background is by my friend, and extraordinary shamanic artist, Missy Stevens.