No, I am not a drummer, or a musician for that matter. I just love the grounding feelings and vibration of a percussion instrument. IF you’ve ever sat in a circle surrounded by the rhythmic pulse of drums, you know — it’s not just music. It’s medicine!!
At our wellness retreats, whether nestled in the lush hills of Cuba or during our soul-nourishing one-day escapes by a beautiful river in Canada, there’s one constant that participants come to love, anticipate, and remember: the drumming session. It’s more than an activity — it’s a return to self.
Why Drumming?
Drumming is not just sound; it’s grounding in motion. It’s a direct path to the present moment — to the body, the earth, and the heart.
And, this is not just a “Jocy-retreat-thing”. No, across centuries and cultures, drums have echoed in sacred rituals, healing ceremonies, and community gatherings. From African djembe circles to Indigenous powwows, the drum is a symbol of connection — not only to each other but to something deeper and primal within ourselves.
“When the drums started, something inside me remembered who I am. It was like I wasn’t thinking anymore — I was just being.”
— Dario, participant at our Cuba Retreat 2025
Science agrees. Studies have shown that drumming can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost the immune system.
As you know, in addition to a retreat host, I am also a scientist. So I gotta tell you about this groundbreaking study published in the journal Medical Science Monitor found that group drumming reduced stress hormones like cortisol and increased natural killer cell activity in participants — the very cells that help the body fight off viruses and cancer.
Another study from the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine discovered that rhythmic drumming synchronizes brainwave activity, inducing states of deep relaxation and even trance-like meditative awareness. These brainwave states are closely linked to healing, insight, and clarity — something our retreat guests often describe.
I can go on and on.. but the proof is in what this participant share with me, at one of the retreats: “The drumming circle was the most powerful part of the weekend for me. I came in feeling overwhelmed and left feeling so rooted, so secure, and honestly… so confident. Like I had found my inner power again.”
I couldn’t have said it best!
Drumming and Grounding: The Sacred Connection
To be grounded is to feel anchored in the present moment, in your body, and in your truth. In a world that constantly pulls our attention into the digital and the superficial, grounding is spiritual survival. Drumming — with its repetitive, earthy beats — brings us back to our root.
The rhythm mimics the heartbeat, the most ancient and familiar sound we know — the one we heard in our mother’s womb. It’s no coincidence that we start many retreats with this practice. It sets the tone, brings the group into coherence, and reactivates a sense of belonging and embodiment.
Confidence Through Rhythm
There’s a transformative magic that happens when people — especially those who may have never drummed before — find their rhythm. Suddenly, self-doubt gives way to self-expression. The beat becomes a mirror of their inner voice.
When you’re grounded, you’re present. When you’re present, you’re confident. It’s not about perfection; it’s about presence. That’s what drumming teaches us.
“I didn’t expect to love it so much. I had never played a drum before, but once I started, I couldn’t stop smiling. It made me feel alive, strong, and free.”
— Dario, Cuba Wellness Retreat 2025
Music as a Grounding Tool
We all know that music in general is one of the most universal forms of healing. It regulates our nervous system, lifts our vibration, and opens our hearts. But drumming — oh, there is something special about drumming! — it offers something deeper. It invites you to embody the rhythm, to move with it, and to connect through it. Also, there’s no pressure to perform. It’s not about “getting it right.” It’s about feeling beating it, feeling it, doing it — together. In that collective pulse, we find silence within the sound, and we find ourselves in each other.
Gratitude and Grounding Go Hand in Hand
Here’s something beautiful: When we are grounded, we become more grateful. Grounding connects us with what is — the here, the now, the breath, the beat. And from that grounded presence, appreciation naturally arises.
Gratitude isn’t an abstract concept — it’s a visceral experience. And drumming opens the door.
“The drumming reminded me how powerful it is to just be. I felt so grateful to be alive. To feel. To connect. That moment stayed with me for weeks.”
— Lucia, One-Day Retreat in Ottawa, Orleans, 2024
The Beat Goes On…
This is why drumming will always be a sacred part of our retreats. Because it’s not just about the rhythm — it’s about remembering.
Remembering that you belong.
Remembering that you are powerful.
Remembering that healing is already inside you.
You just need to feel the beat.
So next time you feel lost, scattered, anxious — pick up a drum, stomp your feet, or simply clap your hands. Feel the rhythm of your own heart.
Because sometimes, the way back to yourself is just one beat away.
Want to experience the power of drumming for yourself?
Join us at our next Wellness Retreat in Cuba or our upcoming One-Day Retreats in Ottawa. Your heartbeat is waiting. So is your rhythm.
Jocy Medina
🎶✨
Here are the highlights of the drumming sessions at our beautiful retreat in Cuba
Get yourself a beautiful drum for your next retreat
Beautiful goddess drum, smaller than in the picture but nice solid sound. Packs well. Not expensive at all.
Turtles are a symbol of patience and love. It represents the pace of our journey, the steps we take towards our goals not needing to be rushed, but needing to be firm and certain… This is a very nice and solid drum. Packs well. Not expensive at all.
This is a very nice and solid drum. Handmade. Made of wood and leather. Small size. Packs well. Not expensive at all.
This is a nice small African Djembe, measuring 9 x 20 inches, crafted from high-quality mahogany. This standard model features a 9.5-inch goat skin drumhead, which contributes to its rich, resonant sound. Its compact size makes it perfect for portable use, allowing musicians to easily pack it for travel or outdoor events. Whether you’re jamming with friends or practicing solo, this djembe is an excellent addition to any percussionist’s collection.
The Mandala Drum
Embrace the mesmerizing artistry of this shaman drum, where wood and leather unite to create a practical and beautiful masterpiece. Its smooth surfaces and comfortable feel generate a clear and resonant sound that will leave you in awe.
Size: 10 inches. Comes with drumming stick, as shown.
Other musical instruments to play at the beach
Ocean drums are an amazing addition to your meditation session, as they create soothing, rhythmic sounds that mimic the gentle ebb and flow of ocean waves. The unique auditory experience they provide helps to enhance relaxation and deepen your state of mindfulness. By incorporating ocean drums into your practice, you can transform your meditation environment into a serene coastal retreat, allowing your mind to drift peacefully while you concentrate on your breath and intentions.
Tambourines are awesome for beach circles, as they provide an engaging way to accompany songs, fostering a lively atmosphere and encouraging everyone to join in. Their vibrant sound makes for nice percussion rhythms that can elevate the mood and add energy to gatherings, creating a sense of unity among friends and family.
The Gong Lotus Wind Gong 20 Inch is an extraordinary instrument that truly captures the essence of Chinese culture, overflowing with a rich heritage. Meticulously crafted, this stunning Wind Gong arrives with a specially designed Gong Mallet and Hanging String, providing you with everything needed to unleash breathtaking sounds that will mesmerize your audience. Its impressive size empowers this authentic Chinese Wind Gong to generate profound and resonant tones that enchant listeners, enveloping them in a powerful and beautiful auditory experience.
Beautiful table gong
- Size: 8″(H) x 7.5″(L) x 1.75″(D) approx.
- Material: Wood and Copper
- Idea for meditation. Perfect home decor to create Zen environment at home or in office. Good Feng Shui!
What to pack for your trip to Cuba
More information about the Wellness Retreat in Cuba
Favorite spiritual products
This “Gratitude Journal,” offers 100 days of guided gratitude prompts, including counting blessings, writing thank-you letters to your past and present self, and reflecting on moments of joy and appreciation.
Beautiful tapestry for your wall. Amazon has many sizes. A center ornament inspiring meditation and chakra alignment. Perfect art for your livingroom or bedroom. Zen and minimalistic look.
Bring some zen vibes into your home or office with a cute desktop fountain! It’s all about that soothing water sound and the calming feel of a mini waterfall. Perfect for creating a relaxed atmosphere and adding a touch of Feng Shui to your space. Time to bring those indoor chill vibes to your desk or patio!
Third Eye Chakra (A Note): The A note aligns with the Third Eye Chakra, connected to intuition, perception, and spiritual insight. The vibrational frequency of the A note is thought to enhance awareness and deepen spiritual practices.
The addition of a small water feature can significantly enhance the ambiance of a space, creating a tranquil and soothing environment. Whether it’s a tabletop fountain gently bubbling with water, or a serene water wall softly cascading, the gentle sound of flowing water can bring a sense of calm and relaxation to any setting. The sight and sound of water can also add a touch of elegance and natural beauty to an indoor or outdoor space, making it the perfect focal point for a meditation area, garden, or even a living room. Furthermore, the gentle movement and soothing sound of water can contribute to stress reduction and improved well-being, making it an ideal addition to any environment where peace and tranquility are desired.
Meditation Shawl or Blanket, Exotic Shawl/Wrap, Oversize Scarf or Stole. Unisex
How about a cozy meditation shawl or blanket to keep you warm and focused during your mindfulness practice? Or maybe an exotic shawl/wrap to add a touch of mystery and elegance to your outfit. And don’t forget about the versatile oversize scarf or stole that’s perfect for anyone, anytime. These unisex accessories are all about comfort and style, so take your pick and rock that look!
The one I am showing here is pink, but click this link so you can select among a few gorgeous colours.
Jocy Medina 
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