The drum is the Great Spirit’s favourite instrument. That is why we were given a heartbeat.

Reiki Drumming was developed by Michael Arthur Baird in 1999 whilst on an International Reiki Retreat; and then introduced to the UK in 2007 via Sarah Gregg; who has passed her wisdom, knowledge and techniques onto myself. 

Michael Baird has explained how he developed his technique as he drummed over each participant in ceremony, he visualised the energy of Reiki moving from the drum to the recipient by travelling along the waves of frequency from the drumming; he then went on to receive guidance to pass this lineage of healing to others.

The Spirit of the Drum 

In the ever evolving world of sound vibrational frequency medicine and healing; Reiki Drumming combines the ancient healing practice of Reiki with the powerful energies of the sacred healing tool of the shamanic drum.

In shamanism, the drum is known as “the shaman’s horse” as it allows the shaman to ride the sound waves created by the drum into other realms to help a person heal. 

The shamanic drum is a sacred healing tool with its own unique spirit. There are plenty of workshops in the UK where individuals can “birth” their own drum into creation. Or individuals may feel called to work with a specific drum that has artwork which they feel drawn to. 

My first drum was given to me whilst I did my Reiki Drum training with Sarah Gregg; and the pattern on the drum’s skin looked like a panther. 

(One of my intuitive abilities is being able to see pictures, scenes and faces in patterns on walls and random places; a form of pareidolia) 

And as a result panther was to become one of my animal guides especially as I then later went on to receive the full rites of the Munay-ki. 

Drumming Frequencies Heal

On a physical level, recent research has shown that drumming frequencies can enhance the functioning of the immune system. Studies show that drumming increases the (NK) cancer-killing cells, which helps the body’s immune system to fight off disease. The drumming frequencies alter the neuro-endocrine and immunological response systems; lowering cortisol and blood pressure levels which in turn leads to the production of the body’s natural pain reducing hormones endorphins. 

Whilst other studies have shown how drumming can support Alzheimer’s patients to focus attention, support with recovery from PTSD, and aid with recovery of those with addictions. Recent EEG studies have shown that shamanic drumming can cause an increase in the power of alpha and theta frequencies of the listener. EEG studies look predominantly at the varying aspects of altered psychological states; where individual activities such as meditation, hypnosis, and yogic practices can induce deep states of altered consciousness for the benefits of healing, well-being and sense of euphoria. 

What happens in a Shamanic Reiki Drumming session?

A Shamanic Reiki Drumming session is very similar to a Reiki treatment with the addition of the drum. 

We begin with an informal chat with you. We will talk about what intentions you have for your healing or insight. This first part can take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

This is then followed by the healing and drumming session which can take up to 20 minutes. You can choose to sit or lie, and connect with the earth directly via grounding, or lay on the therapy bed. You are fully clothed during the session and will be provided with a blanket for warmth if required. 

At the beginning of the actual healing session, I will open a sacred, safe healing space. I will welcome in our guides, healers, nature beings, elementals, ancestors and other beings of light guided to work with us and who are appropriate for the healing session. 

I may do this quietly, or spoken while standing behind you (if you are seated) or stand beside you (if you opt for the therapy bed).

The healing guides will then send their healing energy to work through my drum, or into your body directly to the parts that need to be healed. Your body absorbs only as much healing energy it needs to heal.

I may be instructed by my guides to do hands on healing. I will ask for your permission to gently touch your shoulders, knees, stomach or lungs. You would need to tell me whether you do not want to be touched at all.

Apart from receiving healing, our guides might also have messages for you. This can be any advice with regards to your current life situation, an alert to look out for or guidance on which direction to take.

While the healing is taking place, you may experience inner calm, peace and uplifting. Your own guides, and ancestors will also send you their unconditional love and will take your worries and fears away. Sometimes unexpected emotions may surface but know this is part of the healing process.

My healing guides will let me know when the healing is completed. At this stage I will ask my guides to anchor the healing, to ground my client firmly to the earth and ask Mother Gaia to send any excess healing energy to the parts of the world that are needed the most.

A follow-up chat takes place right after the healing session. We discuss what your experience was and how you are feeling. I often recommend one follow up session afterwards. It depends on the condition that needs to be healed.

Please be advised that Shamanic Reiki Drumming can support in healing any emotional, physical, and mental conditions. 

Before booking a session with me; you are welcome to consult your general practitioner or specialist first to rule out any underlying issues.

I am trained, accredited and insured to do this work.