The Heartbeat of Togetherness

In a world that often pulls people apart, finding ways to foster a sense of unity and togetherness is crucial. This is where the power of community drumming comes into play. The simple act of drumming together has the potential to bring individuals closer, creating a bond that transcends barriers. The rhythm of the drum is like a heartbeat, reminding us of our shared humanity and the beauty of collective action. So, pick up a drum and join the rhythm; let the beats of the community drum create a harmonious symphony of encouragement and inclusion.

Community drumming is a reminder that we are all part of something greater than ourselves, and through collaboration, we can achieve great things.

Harmonizing Community

At the heart of community drumming lies a belief in the power of collaboration. When people come together to drum, they are not merely creating music; they are harmonizing their thoughts, emotions, and aspirations. The collective beats of the drums synchronize with the beating hearts of the participants, fostering a profound sense of connection. In this unity, differences dissolve, and all that remains is the shared purpose of creating something beautiful.

​Community drumming is a reminder that we are all part of something greater than ourselves, and through collaboration, we can achieve great things. Moreover, community drumming nurtures a supportive environment for self-expression.

In the midst of the drum circle, one is encouraged to let go of inhibitions and allow the rhythm to flow through their body and soul. Each individual's unique style and energy contribute to the overall tapestry of sound, creating a vibrant and inclusive space. It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned drummer or a novice; the community drum welcomes all with open arms.

By engaging in this rhythmic dialogue, we learn to respect and appreciate the diverse talents and perspectives within our community. The benefits of community drumming extend far beyond the music itself.

Sanctuary Member Bob Pickering (Wildnerness Vision Quest Protector) at a drum circle he was facilitating.

Drum Circles Rich with Benefits

Research has shown that participating in drum circles can have positive effects on mental health. The act of drumming promotes stress reduction, increases mindfulness, and improves overall well-being. When we drum together, we not only release pent-up emotions but also experience a sense of release and relief. It is like a cathartic journey, facilitated by the resonating vibrations of the drums. This shared experience promotes a sense of belonging and encourages individuals to take care of their own well-being as well as that of others in the community. In conclusion, community drumming is a powerful tool for fostering togetherness within our society. It encourages collaboration, self-expression, and promotes mental well-being. ​

Grandfather, our Home Drum

​Huge gratitude to Gerry, our Land Steward, for creating the stand for Grandfather, to Kim, a pipe carrier from 6 Nations for creating the beaters for us, and to all of our Members who continue to bring people together across faiths and traditions, to sing and pray together while beating this beautiful drum.

A beautiful Buffalo skin on a massive cottonwood trunk, this drum came to us from friends of the community with a story. Before it joined us, there was a clear message from Spirit that we needed a Home Drum....a huge drum that would be played by all cultures, across the continuum of gender, race, and religion. And Spirit said the drum was "already here"...so I thought finding it would be easy.

Within a month I had the names of some indigenous drum makers, but they would not make it for us knowing that all cultures, religions and genders would play it. So I let it go to Spirit to show the way. And one day, a year later, I opened the door to our ceremonial room and fell to my knees - there before me was a huge, beautiful drum.

Apparently, it had been in one of the shipping containers in the work yard the whole time, and those who owned it asked it we could foster it for a while. Tears rolled down my cheeks. Home Drum was cold though..not yet ready to be touched. I asked more, and the drum had come to us after quite the healing journey itself - years of abuse, neglect and grief.

I spread the word to our Members and for months our Members sang to it and prayed to it, to help it heal. Finally the day came when he was ready to be played - several sanctuary members from across Ontario got the message the same week.

After letting it bath in the sun with a plate of food as an offering, it was played in ceremony...and what a resonance. In that ceremony, it was named Grandfather. 

So, seize the opportunity to join your local community drum circle, and experience the transformative power of sharing a rhythmic dialogue. And the next time you are at the Sanctuary, please ask your facilitator about our drum and see if the drum can guide you towards a stronger sense of unity, where the sum of our collective efforts is greater than the individual parts.

​Together, we can create a harmonious world where the rhythm of togetherness echoes through every beat of our hearts.

Author

Melanie Ollenberg: Eco-spiritualist and Founder / Co-Creator of the Rosseau Sanctuary.