kathrynturyna.com Blog

Drumming and Healing

July 28th, 2011

A few weeks ago I was able to attend a drum circle and this past weekend I went to a local Pow-Wow. The power of rhythm and the drum never ceases to amaze me – especially the big drums that they use for the dancers. Sitting there in the heat, feeling the rhythm, watching the dancers’ bodies and their regalia move is something to be fully present for.
I became especially interested in the grass dancers. The announcer explained what their dancing meant and I think that was the first time I ever really understood the meaning behind their movements. They were amazing in their ability to transform themselves into the once great grasses which covered the plains as well as portraying other representations.
At one point, a social dance was led for all to join in the great circle – men on the inside and women on the outside. It was a time for everyone to enjoy and get a chance to feel and move to the rhythm created by those drumming.

I think that rhythm has always permeated my life from the time I was a child. My first choice of instrument was: drums. It was met with a big ‘No’ from those in charge. Later, I got a drum machine and an amplifier – so much for ‘No Drums!’
I was blessed for a time when I was young to train as a dancer and even got to take a class in African dance. That was just great – plenty of drums. Still, I did not own a drum of my own. It wasn’t until last year, after so much time, that I finally received my first real drum from a Native American healer. I have loved that drum and still love it. I find it to be very healing, whether drumming softly and slowly or quickly and loudly, depending on my energy. One can drum through happiness, physical pain, tears, frustration, etc. and it always seems to help. I think there is an inherent wisdom in picking up the beater and closing one’s eyes only to lose oneself in the rhythm – whatever comes out.

Entry Filed under: Music