Healing - as a follower of Jesus I believe in healing. Recently there has been discussion about the healing power of drumming. In this article I’m going to talk about my opinion on this idea.
Soothing: When you play the djembe it can bring you peace. So many times I’ve been angry, upset or needing a lift and it has helped to drum along with Christian worship CDs. If you were to be part of a band or a drum circle you could find that being part of something bigger than yourself can bring you therapy. If you just focus on yourself all the time it’s possible to wallow in self pity. For this reason alone I recommend playing the djembe.
Stress Relief: Perhaps it’s the banging (it always helps to hit something!), maybe it’s the repetitive rhythms helping you to get in the groove, but playing the djembe really does help provide stress relief. African instruments lend themselves to playing in groups. Each person in the group finding their niche, their place - brings security, improves self esteem, and leads to friendship - everyone needs friends! According to recent medical research, stress is a contributing factor 98% of all diseases. Recent studies show that drumming along with your heartbeat for 15 minutes alters brainwave patterns, actually increasing alpha waves and dramatically reduces stress. So drumming can actually contribute to improved health!
Traditional Tribal Religions in Africa: Religions in Africa often use the djembe drum in their healing ceremonies. Often used by shamans the djembe is known as the “healing drum”. I know it is possible with the traditional African religions to see healings taking place, they certainly have shown a level of power in the area of healing. I don’t want to open myself up to the spirits they call down. In today’s society people are quite happy to “pick and mix” spirituality, and mix a bit of Christianity with a bit of tribal religion, with a bit of the latest spiritual fad. I am not one of those people. Personally, I follow Jesus, and trust in Him for my healing.
Christian Healing: I am a follower of Jesus. I believe He is God, and has the power to heal. I’ve seen the power of prayer, and Jesus healing all kinds of sicknesses and illnesses. I am interested to see how music and playing the djembe puts us in the right frame of mind, and more open to the Holy Spirit to move and bring healing. Certainly when in Christian worship services I’ve felt the closest to God, and felt His presence, almost tangible, when worshipping through music. When I close my eyes and play my djembe drum, focussing on Jesus, I feel close to Him. Spiritual, mental and physical healing are found in Jesus. I believe He is the only one who can bring true healing which comes out of prayer and relationship with Him. Next time you play your djembe drum ask Jesus to make himself real to you and see for yourself!
I would say that trusting, believing & following God is the path to truly fulfilled life. Drumming can contribute to your wellness, and can lower stress levels, but if you want true healing then I would say you should find it in Jesus, rather than drumming.
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