The Science behind Shamanic Drumming
In our fast-paced, modern world, we often forget the simple, powerful tools that our ancestors used to maintain balance and well-being. Shamanic drumming is one of these tools – an ancient practice that is now being validated by modern science.
Rediscovering Ancient Wisdom in Modern Times
At the heart of shamanic drumming are two fundamental rhythms: the mother beat and the father beat.
The mother beat is slow and steady, like a heartbeat, inviting us to turn inward and connect with our own inner wisdom. The father beat is fast and dynamic, calling us to action and outward expression [1].
When these rhythms are woven together in a shamanic drumming session, they create a powerful journey of transformation.
“The drum journey was an extremely powerful workout for body and mind, exactly what the doctor ordered. Great supportive facilitators helping me shift through stuck energetics. Felt renewed and rejuvenated - a calming influence. We need this stuff on prescription. Thank you.”
The Medicine Woman's Prescription
As one recent participant put it, "we need this stuff on prescription!" And indeed, in the past, when someone was ill, the medicine woman might ask, "When was the last time you danced? Sang? Drummed?" These simple yet impactful practices were recognised as essential for health and healing.
Brainwave Entrainment: How Drumming affects our Mind and Body
Studies now show that specific drumming tempos can change our brainwave patterns [2], guiding us into relaxed and even dreamlike states [3].
In these altered states of consciousness, we can access heightened creativity, insight, and emotional release [4].
Drumming has also been found to reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system [5], [6], and even alleviate chronic pain [7].
More Than Drums: Other Instruments in Shamanic Journeys
But the drum is not the only instrument that plays a role. Rattles, shakers, flutes, bowls and more are often woven into the journey, each adding their unique vibrations and enhancing the power of the experience.
These additional instruments serve to create a rich, multi-layered soundscape that engages the brain in fascinating ways. The high frequencies of rattles and shakers can stimulate the brain's gamma waves, which are associated with heightened perception, learning, and problem-solving [8].
The low frequencies of drums and bowls, on the other hand, can entrain the brain into slower alpha and theta waves, promoting deep relaxation, meditation, and even altered states of consciousness [2, 3].
This interplay of high and low frequencies creates a neuroacoustic experience that is both energising and calming, awakening and grounding.
As the various instruments weave in and out, they guide the brain through a dynamic journey, stimulating different areas and fostering a sense of wholeness and integration (9).
Answering the Medicine Woman's Call
The medicine woman's invitation to dance, sing, and drum is not just a reminder of ancient wisdom, but a call to action. In the sacred space of a shamanic drum journey, we have the opportunity to answer that call. By immersing ourselves in the rhythms and sounds, we not only reconnect with the healing practices of our ancestors but also with the deeper parts of ourselves.
Shaking up our Patterns
The use of multiple instruments adds an element of surprise and delight, shaking us out of our usual patterns and expectations. Each new sound is an invitation to let go, to open ourselves to new experiences and ways of being. As the medicine woman knew, it is in these moments of surrender and openness that deep healing can occur.
A Journey of Sound and Sensation
In a shamanic drum journey, you might find yourself floating on the ethereal notes of a flute one moment, and then pulsing with the earthy rhythms of a drum the next.
You might feel the tingle of a rattle dancing up your spine, or the deep vibrations of a bowl resonating in your belly. Each instrument brings its own medicine, its own unique way of moving and shifting energy.
The Science of Sound Healing
And as modern science is revealing, this kind of multi-sensory journey can have profound effects on our health and well-being. Studies have shown that shamanic drumming can boost the immune system, reduce anxiety and stress, and even alleviate chronic pain [5, 6, 7]. When we add in the additional instruments, we amplify these benefits, creating a truly holistic healing experience.
A Medicine Available to All
So the next time you find yourself at a drum journey, tune into all the sounds that surround you. Let yourself be carried by the drum, shaken by the rattle, soothed by the flute. Open yourself to the full spectrum of healing vibrations.
And remember, this powerful medicine is available to everyone. No musical skill is needed – just a curious mind and an open heart.
Experience the Magic for Yourself
Ready to experience the multi-instrumental magic of shamanic drumming for yourself? Join us for an upcoming journey and discover how the power of sound can transform your mind, body, and spirit.
References:
The Shamanic Drum: A Guide to Sacred Drumming by Michael Drake, Talking Drum Publications, 2010.
Olek, D. (2018). Brainwave Entrainment: A Review of the Research. Journal of Psychology and Clinical Psychiatry, 9(4), 462-467.
Shamanic Drumming: Calling the Spirits by Michael Drake, Talking Drum Publications, 1991.
Winkelman, M. (2003). Complementary therapy for addiction: "drumming out drugs". American journal of public health, 93(4), 647-651.
Bittman, B. B., Berk, L. S., Felten, D. L., Westengard, J., Simonton, O. C., Pappas, J., & Ninehouser, M. (2001). Composite effects of group drumming music therapy on modulation of neuroendocrine-immune parameters in normal subjects. Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 7(1), 38–48.
Smith, C., Hancock, H., Blake-Mortimer, J., & Eckert, K. (2007). A randomised comparative trial of yoga and relaxation to reduce stress and anxiety. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 15 (2) , 77-83.
Winkelman, M. (2003). Complementary therapy for addiction: "drumming out drugs". American journal of public health, 93(4), 647-651.
Landry, J. M. (2014). Physiological and psychological effects of a Himalayan singing bowl in meditation practice: a quantitative analysis. American journal of health promotion, 28(5), 306-309.
Goldman, J. (2017). The 7 secrets of sound healing. Hay House.
