Christian healing vs healing power of drums

There has been a lot of talk recently about the healing power of drums. I’d like to talk about this idea of healing, and express my thoughts on the matter. Please understand that I will be taking this from a standpoint of being a Christian.

Chill out by playing the djembe: Looking for life? Consider playing the djembe! I’ve found calm when drumming along with Christian worship music. If you were to be part of a music group or a drum circle you could find that being part of something bigger than yourself can bring you a lift. 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 reduce stress. African instruments lend themselves to playing in bands. 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 substantially reduces stress. So drumming can actually contribute to improved health!

Traditional Tribal Religions in Africa: Religions in Africa often use the djembe 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 traditional African religion, with a bit of the latest spiritual idea. I am not one of those people. Personally, I follow Jesus, and trust in Him for my healing.

Jesus heals: I’ve seen the power of prayer, and Jesus healing all kind of illnesses & mental problems. I’m a follower of Jesus. I believe He is God, and has the power to heal. I am interested to see how music and drumming puts us in the right mindset, and allows the Holy Spirit to bring peace and healing. I’ve noticed that when in Christian worship services I’ve felt the closest to God, and felt His manifest presence, almost tangible, when worshipping through music. When I close my eyes and play my keyboard, focussing Jesus, I feel closer to Him. I believe spiritual, mental and physical healing are found in Jesus. I believe he is the only God who can bring true peace and healing. Next time you play your djembe 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 reduce stress levels, but if you want true healing then I would say you should find it in Jesus, rather than drumming.