RHYTHMIC HEALING
A publication by Kweku Sackey.
Creating spaces for presence, connection & wellbeing
Rhythm • Creativity • Culture • Community
Rhythm and creativity have become a cultural language and a creative space providing a hub to improve mental and physical wellbeing while offering an alternative in the mean time for traditional clinical care. I am fortunate to be born into a culture where creativity bridges gaps and opens portals of communication, rehabilitation and connection. Being around circles and spaces in my community I witnessed the positive impact: an intentional gathering with a sprinkle of creative elements, be it in art, music, hiking, crossword or even clapping sessions which brought so much joy, calmness, infectious energy and connection. I have memories of my grandmother allowing me to hit her pots and pans as a child while joining my family in dancing and singing and expressing themselves in the most genuine and vulnerable way. The space, the sound and the community came together to share and create a sanctuary.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
Working with Citizens of the World for the past twenty months has brought so much to the surface, a shift and an overwhelming impact. Being in the music industry, touring and being involved in high pressure situations, this role as a facilitator has absolutely grounded me, opened my eyes to reality and what happens in the world. I have met humans with such resolve and tenacity, I have witnessed huge expression of joy and been around the most heartwarming stories from cultures and traditions I have come to be a part of. A space from day one I envisioned as hub for cultural connections, a space fostering empathy and respect as the basic language, a space using rhythm as a vehicle of joy and vulnerability.
As an immigrant, as a man who struggled with refugee status and the lengthy process of gaining stable status, I can understand the huge stress and anxiety people go through. The process eats your physical and mental resolve, and I really appreciate the commitment of these men waking up every week to show up and be involved in activities. The level of paranoia and anxiety around not knowing what your next plan of action is going to be, the discomfort of space and accommodation, the inability to work and limitations around travel both domestically and internationally, the disconnect with family, friends and loved ones, fear and political views and more. The implication on mental, emotional and physical health is not spoken about enough and this has been one of the main attractions to this role – delivering workshops with the help of my knowledge of Creative Arts to be able to help these men navigate the difficulties in new territories.
Lately political turmoil and some minor public engagement brought fear and panic to an already volatile situation. The fear of public attacks, racist views and political policies has further etched a layer of panic very observable in the past couple of years and has also warranted the need to be involved and help spread kindness and understanding through our space and activities.
We decided to create a space of PRESENCE, a space where everyone can drop their burdens and worries, a space of no perfection and a space where everyone can fulfill themselves, explore and share their culture and story. A space of rhythmic healing.
THE 5 DIMENSIONS OF RTHYTM HEALING
I use rhythm as a bridge to connect. Trauma stays in our bodies, nervous systems and even across generations, so it’s vital we create a space that helps to manage and heal, where rhythm becomes the language spoken with our bodies and spirits.
The first dimension of our creative health journey involving rhythm is Vibration. Vibration is a change in cause. Shaking loose what is trapped. Our first action of engagement after meet and greet is our warm up. We create series of movements based around shaking to release trapped energy, shallow breath, tension in muscles and suppressed emotions. The warmth takes into account positive sensory engagement and a stream of grateful emotions for life. Chanting, stomping and ecstatic movement all create a shared vulnerability and joy, a sense of belonging. Vibrations also bring relaxation and a feel of safety as they release the body of its fight or flight state and flood our system with endorphins, dopamine and also a form of physical pain management. Vibration infuses cultural and spiritual insights where we encourage a sense of calm through channeling movement from our individual cultures, a way close to home or memory of calm.
"Drumming is more than just music to me — it’s my passion, my energy, and the way I express myself. Every beat brings me joy and makes me feel alive. thank u for everyone.” Amir
Then comes Pulsation. The use of pulsation is to encourage participants to reconnect to their heartbeat and align to their natural rhythm. Through steady drumbeat patterns, breathing and chants we establish a primal sense of safety in our nervous systems. Pulsation brings predictability and trust - a grid participants can hold on to. Something that is non-judgmental and very easy to engage, an important ingredient for a safety anchor.
The third dimension of our rhythmic healing is Frequency. The rhythms created all vibrate at a Frequency. Opening sessions with songs and movements allow coordination and cognition. Low frequencies create grounding, calming and release of fear. Group energy and cultural reconnection are enhanced by medium frequencies. High frequencies are for cathartic experiences and communal healing.
We have been able to learn so many patterns of movements and drumming across, cultures, ceremonies and traditions.
Then there is the importance of Space. Holding the silence between the beats. The use and trust of silence between beats and patterns on the drum creates that bond of trust, commitment and belonging. Understanding the rudiments and trusting each other to indulge and disengage at the same time create a harmonious melody of mind, body and soul.
"For me, drumming is much more than just playing an instrument. It is a way of expressing myself, connecting with other people, and feeling part of something special. Being part of the drumming group has given me many opportunities to learn, improve and build my confidence. I have seen a big difference in my playing since I joined, and every performance gives me more experience and motivation to keep developing.
What makes it even more special is seeing how the group is growing. We are performing in more places, taking part in new events and reaching more people. Seeing our performances shared and talked about, and watching the group become more well-known, makes me very proud to be part of it.
For me, every drumbeat represents energy, teamwork and connection. We come from different backgrounds, but when we play together, we become one team with one rhythm. I am excited to see where the group goes next and to continue learning, performing and growing together." Omar
The fifth dimension of rhythmic healing is Communal Entrainment. The sense of belonging. Creating a sanctuary. A space where rhythm is the form of communication, the silence between movements and notes creates chemistry and a solid bedrock for people to feel at home physically and mentally.
"Hello everyone, friends, dancing is really something special. A person can get positive energy throughout the day. It can be said that this is a great art. Every day is a memory of meeting other people. Thank you very much to the cast." Mazyar
THE IMPACT
The benefits of rhythmic sessions in creative health, as we have obsessed, are massive. In the past twenty months I have witnessed a beautiful shift, a space that allows men to be vulnerable and able to open up, to connect with other personalities, cultures and new way of adaptation. Rhythmic sessions have helped people be present and understand empathy by hearing stories and being around people that need help through collaboration and good communication. The space is welcoming and filled with warmth, smiles, chants, dance and very hospitable. Respect and mindfulness are always our top priorities as well as taking action to help facilitate a creative safe space. We treat each other with respect which empowers and helps participants open up and feel they are part of a group while also being themselves.
The space has produced natural leaders and allowed so many of the participants to show amazing leadership qualities and go on to host sessions themselves.
“Drumming means much more than just making music. It is a connection to my culture, my roots, my people and the place I call home.
As an asylum seeker, there are times when I feel far away from home and from the people and traditions that shaped me. Drumming helps me keep that connection alive. When I hear or play the drum, it reminds me of where I come from and gives me a feeling of belonging, even when I am living far away from my country.
Drumming also gives me a way to express feelings that are sometimes difficult to put into words. It can bring comfort, strength and healing. It reminds me that although my journey has been difficult, I have not lost my identity or my connection to my culture.
For me, drumming is about bringing people together, sharing stories, celebrating life and creating a sense of community. As an asylum seeker, finding community is very important because it can help you feel seen, accepted and less alone.
The drum reminds me that I carry my home, my culture and my story with me wherever I go. It gives me hope and reminds me that my past is part of who I am, but it does not define the limits of my future." Ebenezer
This role has taught me so much. My journey towards my own self-healing has been absolutely inspired by these men. Working with Sharon, Nicola, Yogi, Omar, Solomon, Jide and others who facilitate and help sustain this environment has been eye opening and helped me gain so much confidence and knowledge. Patience, empathy, respect and connection has been the main focus and helped create Presence. A home away from home - a brotherhood focused on being there for each other.
Through drumming, dancing and singing we have become a unit of change, a light in the community that allows individualism to shine through very hard times. Our creative space has shaped identities and inspired people to be original and authentic. It has brought out their culture along with deeper avenues of themselves that would have been lost due to trauma.
OUR MANTRA
'Drumming is an act of connecting inner spirit to unleash outer energy.
Drumming is travelling inwards to express feelings, thoughts. Energy and creativity.
Drumming is a universal language that doesn't require formal introduction before it joins a conversation in an ensemble of drums or musical composition.
Drumming speaks the language of the players. It embodies culture, tradition, language and intention of the player.
Drumming is best expressed when played in an ensemble, a community act that keeps everyone together, it encourages inclusivity, humanity, shared values and diversity.
Drumming tells history, preserves culture, heritage, identity and Community essence.
Drumming is therapeutic, it helps to boost immune system, mental Wellness and excellently good for mental Alertness, and concentration exercise. Drumming is Life.
Life & the world generally survives through rhythm. The heart is the best drummer, it is the simplest rhythm that plays continuously. Listen to the beat the heart produces, then transfer the rhythm into your palm.
Slam it.
Hit it.
The world survives through rhythm.' Ajide
Such spaces and facilitation should be encouraged in all work places. A space to reconnect, recharge and be present. Creativity is a healthy way to human sustainability.
Written by Kweku Sackey (K.O.G.) – musician, artist, creative health facilitator
Contributor – Gertruda Briedyte
Facilitators/Volunteers - Sharon, Nicola, Solomon, Yogi
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