FARMINGTON — More than rhythm can be produced with the beating of a drum.
A sense of community can come, self-esteem can be increased and problems can be overcome, according to a Mike Liston.
Liston, president of Rhythms of Life, made a presentation to principals from Davis County elementary schools Tuesday, sharing ideas and then involving them in the activity.
“Rhythms naturally boost endorphins,” said Liston before his presentation. “And they reduce anxiety so everybody feels better.”
One of the core purposes of uniting children and drums in drum circles is to help children deal with bullying.
“We have a dialogue about bullying and talk about emotions and feelings,” he said. The students then imitate those feelings by drumming.
Discussions turn from there, to how it feels to be a target of bullying, or how it feels to be a bystander or an ally to one who is bullied.
“We play a lot in the jam sessions,” he said. “They leave feeling more connected to each other. It’s a safe space, it levels the playing field.”
Children can have success “right away -- in two minutes,” he said.
It’s not necessary to be an athlete or have musical experience, said Liston. Anyone can participate and become a part of a community
Drums for schools that choose to participate are hand-made in Ghana and purchased directly from villagers.
According to Rhythms of life’s website, drumming has been around for thousands of years and is a universal language that builds community and aids self-expression.
For more information check out Sept.20 edition of Davis Clipper.
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