The Shamanic Drum: A Guide To Sacred Drumming

by Michael Drake

Shamanic drumming is an ancient approach that uses rhythm to promote healing and self-expression. Based on his studies and personal shamanic experience, Michael presents the first practical guide to applying this ancient healing art to our modern lives. Through a series of simple exercises and lessons, he teaches the basic shamanic methods of drumming. The focus is on creating sacred space, journeying, power practice, power animals, drum therapy, drum circles and the therapeutic effects of drumming. Whether you are an accomplished percussionist or a total beginner, this user-friendly book will help you harness the power of drumming. Recent studies demonstrate that drumming is a valuable treatment for stress, chronic pain, cancer, stroke, trauma, addictions, mental illness, emotional disorders and a wide range of physical disabilities. The benefits include relaxation, healing, more energy, greater mental clarity, enhanced creativity and deeper self-awareness.

Genres: Music, Occult, Spirituality

128 pages, Paperback

First published July 18, 1991

About the author

Michael Drake is an internationally regarded writer and recording artist. He is the author of The Shamanic Drum: A Guide to Sacred Drumming, Shamanic Drumming: Calling the Spirits, I Ching: The Tao of Drumming, Shamanic Drumming Circles Guide, Riding Spirit Horse: A Journey into Shamanism and Shamanic Journeys: An Anthology. His musical albums include Shamanic Journey Drumming and Power Animal Drumming. His articles have appeared in numerous publications, including Awareness, Sacred Hoop, and Mother Earth News.

Raised in a conservative Baptist Church, Michael had his first ecstatic experience as a youth at a church revival, an evangelistic meeting intended to reawaken interest in religion. This state of rapture and trancelike elation inspired his spiritual quest for meaning and fulfillment. At a crucial point in his search, Michael came in touch with the transforming power of shamanic drumming and discovered his true calling. Inspired by his research and experiences, Michael founded Talking Drum Publications in 1991 in order to share the healing power of rhythm with the global drumming community. For the past thirty years, he has been facilitating drum circles and workshops nationwide.

Reviews

[Jason Baldauf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on shamanism from the drumming perspective. I found it to be more in depth and historically pragmatic than Sandra Ingerman's Shamanic Journeying. Fundamentals of the drumming is covered, as well as journeying, power animals and spirit guides, drumming celestial bodies, drum circles and chakra work. A thoughtful, well researched and complete treatise on the subject. Anyone interested in the subject matter should invest.

[Sharon Larson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although some parts of this book are slightly deeper than I’m willing to explore at this time, this was an ideal book for someone who is new to shamanic drumming. I strongly related to the author’s feelings towards nature and it’s ability to heal, inspire, and guide us. Beautifully written. Relatable. Informative without getting too lengthy.

[Aaron Meyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting look at the purpose of the drum and it's necessity for becoming attuned to the energies of the planet. Albeit there is what some would consider New Age type ideas mixed in and ideas from other cultures also brought to bear as well, I don't necessarily think this reflects to negatively upon the book.
I would definitely say that before one simply laughs this book off to personally experience the healing that drumming can bring. It is quite simply amazing. I think afterwards more of the book may make more sense.

[Paula Kirman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brief but detailed look at this spiritual practise with lots of exercises and background information. Especially useful for beginners.

[Ali Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the clarity and simplicity, the truth and understanding of the drum.