Connecting Through Rhythm
Did you know that what I do (drum therapy) isn’t really about drumming? It’s about connection. There are different ways that we are connecting through rhythm.
When you drum with someone or in a group, you’re connecting with your drum, with each other, and, if you’re a person of faith, with God. Yes, the drumming is a tool that helps people feel less stress and more joy but it often takes on a whole different meaning and purpose.
Take a woman I’ll call Cindy. At one group class for seniors, I asked everyone to introduce themselves and share a little something. Cindy told everyone where she was from and then revealed that it was the anniversary of her husband’s death.
That changed everything that I was going to do that day. This wasn’t the time to be busting out some challenging exercises. I started a slow beat and added in some soft, sweeping sounds. Soon, everyone followed. We were supporting Cindy with rhythm. We wanted her to know that she was seen, heard, and valued. Others who lost husbands consoled her.
Healing Rhythms
The main difference between a drum lesson and drum therapy is that the goal of a drum lesson is to learn how to play the drum parts of your favorite songs. The goal of drum therapy is healing. It doesn’t have to be physical healing. Sometimes, it’s emotional.
After my accident in 2011, I needed both. If I ever write a third book, I think I may call it “It doesn’t hurt when I drum.” That discovery set me on a path to find out why. I think I now have enough research and case studies to effectively write about the healing power of drumming. I’ve seen some amazing results that would just blow your mind! These include anxiety, stress, and depression being lifted, sleep being restored, improved clarity and focus, and kids on the autism spectrum communicating better.
To think, I almost exited stage left when all hope seemed lost. I’m glad I stuck around and listened to the voice of God. I also wanted to be here for my family, which now includes three grandkids!
Considering Your Impact
Did you know that you may be impacting generations? Two people recently explained that, when one person is healed by what I do, it not only affects their life but others they interact with. I never thought of that! So, you see, your impact can go way beyond what you thought.
As for me, this is way more than drumming. This is about transforming lives. The stories from the people and ministries I’ve worked with would just break your heart. I’m just glad that I can be a small part of their healing journey. And that God has been with me every step of the way.
Those connections can create a ripple effect. For a fun exercise, click the video below.
How about you? Have you had an epiphany about your impact? Drop a comment below and let me know! Or, do you need help finding connection or moving forward? Click here for your free call!
Dori Staehle lives in the Raleigh, NC area and is a certified drum therapist, inspirational speaker, author, and owner of Next Stage Drumming,She offers wellness and empowerment programs for individuals and organizations, both with drumming and without. Virtual and in-person programs are available. Click here to schedule a call to find out more!
