8 Surprising Benefits of Drumming for Mental Health

From Harmony Music Therapy

 

#1 Drumming Increases Mindfulness

Actively making music or drumming in a group brings a person’s attention to the present moment, allowing them to practice mindfulness in a creative way and giving them a break from worries about the past or future.

 

#2 Playing Rhythm Can Help You Relax

Drumming can induce deep relaxation, lowering stress hormones in the blood.

 

#3 Drumming improves your immune system

A neurologist and president of the Yamaha Music & Wellness Institute, Barry Bittman, MD, has shown that drumming actually increases natural T-cells, which aid the body in combating diseases.

 

#4 Group Drumming Improves Interpersonal Connection

Drumming in a group provides an opportunity to connect to other people in a shared creative experience. People who sing or move in rhythm together tend to work together more cooperatively afterwards

 

#5 Drumming Decreases Stress & Anxiety

Drumming can serve as a method of low-risk exercise while significantly decreasing stress and anxiety levels. Because drumming increases the heart rate it qualifies as a low-to-moderate intensity exercise.

 

#6 Drumming Activates the Brain

Drumming activates both hemispheres of the brain. It releases endorphins, enkaphalins, and Alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with feelings of well-being and happiness.

 

#7 Active Music Making Increases Pain Tolerance

People have a higher pain threshold immediately after singing, dancing, and drumming. A release of endorphins happens, akin to the “runner’s high.” It is the active performance of music is what generates the endorphins, not just listening to the music itself.

 

#8 Drumming Promotes Self Expression

Drumming is another form of self-expression, allowing for the expression of otherwise difficult to express negative emotions. The release and expression of these emotions in a safe environment allows for emotional catharsis.