Drum circles aid cancer treatment

One of the first sounds we hear while we are in our mother’s womb is the sound of her beating heart, according to Reya Sharman, MD, PhD. 

“This sound closely resembles the slow, rhythmic beat of a drum,” said Sharman, assistant clinical professor in the University of Arizona College of Medicine and the program director for the Integrative Medicine in Hematology Oncology Fellowship.

Due to their positive effects on body, mind and spirit that may begin as a positive bonding pre-birth experience, drum circle events are being increasingly offered at cancer centers across the country. 

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“Drumming in a circle is a practice that has existed for thousands of years across cultures, for healing, community bonding, ritual or communication,” Sharman said.

On March 19, the U of A Cancer Center Tom and Catherine Culley Circles of Holistic Care and the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, will offer an uplifting drum circle by Drumming Sounds, a group from Phoenix, 3:30–4:30 p.m., at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine Cantor Building in Tucson.

The event is for cancer center patients, their caregivers, and healthcare providers. Attendees do not need prior experience in drumming or music, and drums will be available. 

Research on drum circles suggests that participating in a drum circle releases endorphins, natural hormones that help to reduce stress, and increase circulating white blood cells called natural killer cells which play an important role in boosting an immune response, according to Sharman. 

“Drum circles in an oncology setting promote physical, emotional and psychological well-being,” she said. “They also offer patients a supportive outlet to express their emotions and in doing so, help to relieve stress.”

Sharman said she hopes that young adult cancer survivors, ages 18-35, will try the drumming circle event in the Cantor Building.

“This is an opportunity to create space for our patients to come together for enjoyment, wellness and social connection, an opportunity to offer a respite from worries and focus on something that can bring joy,” Sharman said. “Participants can leave feeling recharged and more connected to themselves and others.”   

A generous gift from the Tom and Catherine Culley estate allowed the integrative oncology team to offer this event as well as other integrative medicine therapies and practices for cancer center patients.

For more information or to sign up for the March 19 event, visit the Community Drum Circle registration page.