Embarking on the path of facilitating a drumming for wellness rhythm circle was both exhilarating and humbling. The anticipation of guiding others through a rhythmic journey for well-being filled me with a mix of excitement and responsibility. This is the story of my experience as a facilitator, weaving beats and creating a space for collective harmony.
Preparation: Crafting the Rhythmic Canvas
I was super keen (having previously been to The Corrs concert the evening before in Launceston) and having a rather large music fix. I was feeling all things rhythmical. My husband Dave, was my 2IC, greatly assisting me in packing the van with all my gear!
Joshua Slocum Park in Devonport provided the perfect backdrop for my rhythm circle. Great suggestion from Claire at Marion Storm Cafe. This also meant that everyone who attended on the day felt like we had our very own cafe. It was perfect, with some of the patrons from the cafe choosing to come and join us.
I meticulously set the stage, setting up the chairs, place settings and djembes, with some funky little percussion instruments in the middle. The space was welcoming, the view was outstanding and I felt anticipated excitement.
Welcoming the Circle : Establishing Connection
As everyone gathered, my aim was to create an inclusive and welcoming space. A space where everyone felt comfortable, ready to feel joy. I spoke about my intention of creating community and connection as this is where people feel belonging. I shared my drumming journey and my therapeutic background. My heart was indeed warm witnessing mum's bring their children, it was exactly what I had hoped for.
Setting the Rhythmic Pulse: A Unified Heartbeat
Commencing the rhythm circle with a simple, steady heartbeat rhythm, I encouraged everyone to join in. The unified pulse quickly formed a rhythmic connection, a shared language that transcended words. Witnessing the smiles on everyone's faces was just so wonderful. As I mentioned right at the beginning, before we even felt the power of the drum, everyone has the capacity to play the djembe. I shared with the group the importance of feeling the heartbeat and being able to use that beat as a self-regulation tool.
Guiding Expressive Exploration: Finding Individual Voices
This part was sooooo much fun! We enoyed some games where we worked together as a team, and where we were able to explore our own individuality, where people were able to find their voice by using the hand drum and their actual voice! The encouragement around the circle for one another was quite high. The circle resonated with a diverse tapestry of beats, each telling a unique story. I love to see confidence growing, and the smiles around the circle were infectious.
Fostering Group Dynamics: Nurturing Collaboration
One of the most rewarding aspects was witnessing the emergence of some wonderful group dynamics. Strangers transformed into collaborators, listening and responding to each other's beats. The sense of unity and support within the circle highlighted the potential of drumming to foster community and shared experience.
Conclusion: Echoes of Rhythmic Empowerment
Facilitating my first drumming for wellness rhythm circle was a remarkable experience. The beats became not just sounds but tools for empowerment and connection. The rhythmic journey forged in that circle echoed far beyond the session, leaving me inspired to continue facilitating spaces where the therapeutic power of the drums and rhythm, can be harnessed for collective well-being.
FUN, FUN, FUN!
Of course this is all wrapped up in FUN and JOY! The connectedness of the hand drum bringing people together so they feel connection, community and belonging.
We enjoyed a great little break where we may have snuck off to Marion Storm for a treat.
We created a beautiful safe space together. I like it. I like it a lot.
Thank you to everyone who came on that first Sunday in November. I do hope that we get to see each other again.
Thank you to the Devonport City Council for making the parks approval process an easy one, and for also understanding the importance of drum therapy.
Thank you to Claire and her team from Marion Storm for all of your support.
Yours in Harmony
Jodhi Gough
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