Healing & Djembe Drums – can playing the djembe bring you healing?
Healing – as a follower of Jesus I believe in healing. Recently there has been discussion about the healing power of drums. In this article I’m going to discuss my opinion on this idea.
Soothing: There’s something special about playing the djembe which is so calming. So many times I’ve been frustrated, crying or needing a pick me up and it has helped to drum along with Christian worship songs. Being part of a band or a drum circle can also help emotionally. Just being part of something, something bigger than yourself can bring you life. If you just focus on yourself all the time it’s possible to wallow in guilt. For this reason alone I recommend playing the djembe.
Eliminate stress: It could be the banging (it always helps to hit something!), it could be the rhythms (getting into the groove), but playing the djembe drum really does help reduce stress. African instruments lend themselves to bands playing together, each person finding their niche, finding their place in the group, and once you’ve been playing for some time you can feel the stress rolling off you (as well as the sweat!). According to recent medical research, stress is a symptom of 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 drum 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 traditional African religion, with a bit of the latest spiritual idea. I am not one of those people. Personally, I follow Jesus and wouldn’t open my spirit 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 & 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 singing in worship 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 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 health, and can almost eliminate stress levels, but if you want true healing then I would say you should find it in Jesus, rather than playing the djembe.
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