Hoop Drums. The Healing Drum in Native American Tradition

Archaeological evidence suggests that Native American drum circles and similar practices date back thousands of years, and healing ceremonies have been a long-standing drumming tradition among many indigenous tribes. According to Native American shamans, drumming is a healing process, and the drum is a spiritual symbol that belongs to the owner only for a certain period of time. It is essential to follow certain teachings when handling the drum, such as never placing it face down on the ground or playing it while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Native American healing drumming sessions are characterized by three elemental beats: earth, fire, and water. The drum's rhythm promotes healing and realignment of the four realms of human existence: mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical. The drum is made from an animal and tree that have their own unique medicine, and their spirits are believed to be part of the drum. As a result, the drummer takes great pride in making or selecting their drum. According to tradition, the drum should not be played until the sacred awakening ceremony is performed, which lasts about seven days and involves prayers, ritual smudging, and giving thanks to the animal and tree that gave their lives for the drum. Once the ceremony is over, the drummer can learn to play the drum's elemental beats using three basic tones: base, open, and slap.

Native American drums are typically made using cow, elk, or deer hide and logs from trees. The hide is soaked in water, while the logs are hollowed out and cut to size to serve as the base or frame. The animal hide is stretched over the base to create the basic drum, which can be played using hands or a stick.

It should be noted that Native American drums vary among different tribes and indigenous peoples, each with their cultural traditions. These drums have been used for entertainment, storytelling, meditation, and trance induction throughout the years. Hand drums, such as the double-sided hoop drum, are among the most common Native American drums. Another popular Native American drum is the Spinner drum, which is a tiny drum held by a pole with bead strikers on the sides. Hoop drums, like the frame drum, can be played by hand, but the difference is that they are double-sided, providing greater versatility in drumming techniques.

In conclusion, Native American drumming traditions have deep roots in their culture and spirituality. Drums are made with great care and respect for the animal and trees that gave their lives for them, and drumming is seen as a healing process that promotes the realignment of the four realms of human existence. Each tribe has its own unique cultural traditions and styles of drumming, making the Native American drum a diverse and significant aspect of their cultural heritage.