Our drumming circle can best be described as a communal meditative experience, although we certainly enjoy its social aspects as well (food almost always appears when our people get together!). Our drumming has been fairly unstructured and relaxed, tending to follow wherever the spirit leads.

Drumming is sometimes thought of primarily as a Native American or American Indian practice, and the drum has certainly been an important part of that culture. Our circle has reflected some of the Indian influence, not only because some Native Americans have been participants, but we do not attempt to imitate all aspects of an authentic Indian drumming experience.

However, as a meditative tool and as a medium for achieving altered states of consciousness, drumming has been a central element in shamanic traditions world-wide and extending back for thousands of years. We look more deeply to this shamanic tradition for our methods and inspiration, and so our circle remains essentially a very personal and individual experience. We encourage each participant to follow his or her own path to joy and an ecstatic contact with the sacred within ourselves.

Most of us have our own drums, but some make use of drums and rattles which are shared by others in the circle. Not owning a drum, then, is not a reason to stay away. If you'd like to try your hand, or the idea of just listening to drumming appeals to you, or if you are merely curious, please let us welcome you on any second or fourth Wednesday evening (except in Summer).

Our circle meets in the Garden Room, downstairs in the Unity Center building. If you would like to discuss any of this further before attending, feel free to call Jan Riske at 360-520-4078 or Reysha Silverhair at 360-736-7546.