HealthRhythms by nature is an organic way to help improve various areas of health and wellness. For 1000’s of years, different populations have used the drum as a method of communication, celebration along with health and spiritual experiences.

There are many different populations with various diseases that have experienced much success in improved health outcomes through the experience of HealthRhythms. People that are suffering from various forms of depression, along with Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinsons, stroke patients, coronary heart disease patients and individuals suffering from chronic pain all have experienced varied degrees of improved health outcomes. Even cancer survivors have reported improved outcomes.

HealthRhythms is an hour long session of fun filled group drumming following a 10 step, scientific backed protocol that can have positive effects both physically and emotionally. It brings people together along with bringing them out of their shell. It can ignite a spark inside that has been slowly burning out over time. This program has many health benefits, as seen below. Your residents and patients can benefit greatly from this program.

Older Adults:

A study conducted at two continuing care retirement communities showed that Recreational Music Making (RMM) reverses the biological response at the DNA level that can lead to the development of a host of common diseases. Research showed 10 of 45 gene markers reserved when individuals engaged in a RMM program in contrast to 6 of 45 gene markers reversed when individuals relaxed and read newspapers and/or magazines. Med Sci 2005 11(2)BR31-4

Patients with Coronary Heart Disease:

A study conducted at Walter Reed Military Medical Center documented Recreational Music Making (RMM) as a mode of stress reduction following stress induction was more effective at alternating the expression of molecular pathways than quiet reading. In participants randomized to RMM, 12 pathways showed significant dysregulation, compared to only two pathways in participants randomized to quiet reading. Med Sci Monit, 2013: 19: 139-147

Cancer:

Subjects who participated in a clinical trial using the HealthRhythms protocol showed an increase in natural killer cell activity and an enhanced immune system. While this does not indicate a cure for cancer, such results may be of benefit for those facing this disease.

(Bittman, Berk, Felten, Westerngard, Simonton, Pappas, Ninehousser, 2001, Alternative Therapies, vol 7 no. 1)

Alzheimer’s Disease:

According to Calir, Bernstein and Johnson (1995) Alzheimer’s patients who drum can connect better with loved ones. The predictability of rhythm may provide framework for repetitive response that make few cognitive demands with people with dementia.

Parkinson’s disease and Stroke:

Rhythmic cues can help retain the brain after a stroke or other neurological impairment, according to Micheal Thaurt, director of Colorado State’s University’s Center of Biomedical Research in Music. Researchers have also discovered that hearing slow, steady rhythms, such as drumbeats, helps Parkinson patients move more steadily (Friedman, Healing Power of the Drum, 1994)

Chronic Pain:

Chronic pain has a devastating propensity for progressively draining quality of life. Technology and pharmacology are falling short of the mark needed to improve quality of life and reduce pain, according to Dr. Barry Bittman in the Pain Practitioner. (Lingerman, H.1995, Music and You. In the Healing Energies of Music, Wheaton, IL Theosophical Publishing House)