Healing & Drums – the healing power of prayer – can playing the djembe help bring healing too?

The healing power of djembe drums has been thrown around a lot recently. In this short article I will talk about this idea of healing, and express my thoughts, as a follower of Jesusto this idea.

Chill out by playing the djembe: There’s something unique about playing the djembe drum which is so soothing. So many times I’ve been angry, upset or needing a lift and it has helped to drum along with Christian worship music. Being part of a music group or a drum circle can also help emotionally. Just being part of something, something larger than yourself can bring you therapy. If you just focus on yourself all the time it’s possible to navel gaze in self pity. For this reason alone I recommend playing the djembe drum.

Eliminate stress: 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 groups. Each person in the band 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 playing drums 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 African Religions: The drum has been used as an integral part of traditional religious ceremonies in Africa for many many years. In Nigeria the “Talking Drum” was used in communication as well as ceremonies. The djembe drums have been used in shamanistic ceremonies. Often used in shamanistic healing ceremonies, the djembe is known as the “healing drum”. I know it is possible with the traditional African religions to see healings taking place, I don’t deny that, but I would advise seeking Jesus for your healing.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 wouldn’t open my soul to other spirits. I feel like the spirit of Jesus (Holy Spirit) is pure, is God, and is trustworthy.

Jesus heals: I’ve seen the power of prayer, and Jesus healing all kind of sicknesses & diseases. 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 playing the djembe puts us in the right mindset, and allows the Holy Spirit to bring peace and healing. I’ve noticed that when worshipping Jesus 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 piano, thinking about 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.