Planet Drum news

Why drumming can help you live longer

Drums and cymbals will replace weights and treadmills at a special workshop promoting healthy living through music.

Experts at the Sidney De Haan research centre in Folkestone believe certain parts of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle – namely the constant movement involved with playing percussion instruments – can help the body recover from injury and illness.

Musician Simon Lee works with a large number of health groups throughout the county, and will lead a drumming workshop at the centre on Tuesday (February 3).

He said: “Western science has begun to look at activities that promote well-being and to assess their value to modern healthcare requirements.

“A new interest has developed in drumming, rhythm-making and the role it has in healthy communities, and there is strong evidence to suggest it may actually be a healing activity.

“Some have gone so far as to prove that time spent drumming can positively affect our immune systems, levels of stress and psychological well-being.

“Hand-drumming circles, which originated on the festival scene and in community art groups, have become increasingly popular in the UK. Now drummers are being offered the chance to work in specialised health and social care settings.”

The message behind Mr Lee’s workshop is ironic because some of the most talented drummers in history – such as Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham and The Who’s Keith Moon – lived extremely unhealthy lifestyles and died young as a result.

However, their downfall was more due to the pressures of fame and wealth, whereas Mr Lee has demonstrated in his work with mental health groups, recovering drug addicts and people with autism that percussion can benefit the body in a variety of ways.

Recently Mr Lee, who can also play the guitar and sing, has lent his expertise to the Trevor Gibbens (corr) mental health unit in Maidstone as well as Medway Primary Care Trust. He also leads team building workshops.

Mr Lee said: “Drumming has a number of benefits. It can energise or relax. It can foster a sense of playfulness or release anger and tension.
“It can also help in the conquering of social isolation and the building of positive relationships.”

The Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health is part of Canterbury Christ Church University, and is situated at the University Centre Folkestone. Its primary aim is to promote the value of music and the arts for the wellbeing and health of individuals and communities.

The workshop, which is free of charge, runs between 1pm and 3pm.

To book a place call Isobel Salisbury on 01303 220870.