Clinically shown benefits of drumming

If you're wondering what drumming and rhythm have to do with health, definitely check out this article. It discusses several clinically shown benefits of drumming in a variety of populations, including those with autism, Alzheimer's, PTSD, Parkinson's, and chronic autoimmune disorders.  Drumming does great things for the brain, no matter what your age, level of ability, or background!

When people drum, something happens to their brain that only happens when people are drumming together or when people are in deep meditation,” he explained. “The brain usually operates with either the left or right side independently. People generally cycle in 20 minutes per side. But when drumming, we experience something called hemispheric synchronization, where both sides work at the same time. Scientists believe this is the basis of transcendent states of consciousness. People feel two opposite emotions simultaneously: energized and relaxed.
In 2001, Dr. Barry B. Bittman co-authored a paper titled Composite Effects of Group Drumming Music Therapy on Modulation of Neuroendocrine-Immune Parameters in Normal Subjects. Bittman’s study showed that there was a significant boost in the activity of “cellular immune components responsible for seeking out and destroying cancer cells and viruses were noted in normal subjects who drummed.” In short, drumming can increase the presence of T-cells, the white blood cell that fights viruses. Read more...
We realize that a much of this information may be completely new to you, so read on below for some additional resources on the many benefits of drumming and music making.

Additional Resources

Psychology Today: The Heart is a Drum Machine: Drumming as Therapy
Remo Health Rhythms:  The Health Rhythms protocol was created to study the benefits of group drumming and music making within various populations.  You can also find us on the Facilitator Finder page here!
Developmental Community Music (DCM):  The DCM approach creates a fun, safe, and supportive environment for personal and professional development.  Just Add Rhythm incorporates this fun and rhythmic game-based approach into its sessions.
Jim Donovan Sound Empowerment:  Jim Donovan, formerly of the acclaimed band Rusted Root, is "a musician, educator and inspirational trainer whose mission is to empower, inspire and connect people."  He offers workshops and trainings throughout the country, and his approach to utilizing the voice and the power of sound to achieve significant personal and group benefits is what makes his events so sought after.
Rhythm Kids:  Rhythm Kids is a fun and educational way to introduce children of all ages to the joy of rhythm.
The Drum Connection:  While Just Add Rhythm emphasizes the power of drumming in a "non-class" atmosphere, we'd like to acknowledge the excellent and educational drum classes provided by the Drum Connection up in Boston, MA.  Just Add Rhythm has learned so much traditional West African culture and drumming from you!
Broward Arts Education Directory:  If you are an organization located in Broward County, FL, you can find us on this directory for information on our residencies and workshops for all ages and populations.