01/18/11:
Drumming Circles
What exactly is a drumming circle? Well, at its most basic form, it could be as few as three friends getting together for a “jam session” making music on instruments ranging from drums to bells to shakers (or their hands, thighs, or tummies. Body music counts, too! Personally, I like to strike or vibrate my metal meditation bowl as it adds a nice contrasting sound to all the deep resonating drums!). Drums range in size and shape and can be struck with the hand or drumming stick depending on the type of drum and the sound desired. Drums are also very personal items which many people embellish or decorate to fit their personalities. The flow of the circle can be free-form or lead by a facilitator meaning the sound can range from organic to very structured. Part of the beauty of a drumming circle is that the sound can change as the energy changes, as more people decide to participate, or even if one changes their location within the circle. Drumming circles tend to be “come as you are” events with the main focus on community. Attendees are always part of the circle (participants and audience are one in the same) and, honestly, it’s virtually impossible to not feel compelled to tap, pat, clap or boogie to the beat. The soul purpose of a drumming circle (like that play on words? ;o) is to bring people together giving them an opportunity to express the rhythm which resides in us all while ultimately uniting the community as one. Look for a drumming circle in your neck of the woods (we have 2 this weekend!) and set your unique rhythm free!
“Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul.” Plato
http://www.energylightinformation.com/news
http://www.drums.org/index.html
http://www.drumsontheweb.com/DOTWpages/Drumkeypages/drumcirclehome_2.html
*Green Tip of the Day: add 1-2 tablespoons of white distilled vinegar to the water as you boil eggs to help keep the shells from cracking while they cook!
