Healing & Djembe Drums – can playing the djembe bring you healing?

The healing power of djembe drums has been thrown around ad nauseum recently. In this short article I will discuss 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 therapeutic. So many times I’ve been frustrated, crying or needing a lift and it has helped to drum along with Christian worship CDs. Being part of a music group 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 feelings of insecurity. For this reason alone I recommend playing the djembe.

Stress Relief: It could be the banging (it always helps to hit something!), it could be the rhythms (getting into the groove), but playing the djembe really does help provide stress relief. 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 connected to 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 better health!

Traditional Tribal Religions in Africa: Religions in Africa often use the djembe drum in their healing ceremonies. Often used by shamans the djembe drum 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. Some 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.

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 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 djembe, 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 drum ask Jesus to make himself real to you and see for yourself!

playing the djembe can contribute to your well being and scientifically shown to lower stress levels. However, I would caution against putting your trust in drumming to bring complete healing. You can find real healing only in Jesus.