About “Joyful Rhythms”
To help you better understand what makes our Joyful Rhythms drum circles so unique, it helps to distinguish between the two primary types of drum circles: facilitated and unfacilitated. Each offers a different kind of experience—and both have value.
FACILITATED DRUM CIRCLES:
At Mindful Kindful YOUniversity, our Joyful Rhythms drum circles are facilitated experiences—crafted with intention and heart, with Dee DiGioia as your guide.
Participants are gently supported through an engaging process that uses rhythm to awaken creativity, connection, and joy. We emphasize social connection, emotional release, and the healing power of rhythm as tools to nurture well-being from the inside out.
Also known as recreational drumming, facilitated drum circles are about participation, not performance.
Through simple instructions, playful rhythm games, and dynamic activities, the group is invited to explore the instruments, build confidence, and connect with one another—no prior drumming experience necessary! Over time, the music begins to flow more freely and organically, as we co-create a rhythm enemnble that’s alive and ever-changing.
While there is guidance and direction throughout the experience, ample space is given for improvisation and free-flowing expression. Within the supportive container of a facilitated circle, your natural rhythm is free to rise, play, and evolve, allowing moments of spontaneity to emerge from a place of trust and group connection.
The facilitator’s role is to encourage self-expression, group coherence, and a deep sense of belonging.
We emphasize letting go of stress, having fun, and connecting—with yourself, with others, and with the rhythm of life.
UNFACILITATED DRUM CIRCLES:
While our Joyful Rhythms circles are always facilitated, it’s worth understanding the other common type: unfacilitated (or free-form) drum circles.
When most people hear “drum circle,” they often picture the unfacilitated drum circles. These gatherings are typically unstructured and spontaneous, with no leader or clear direction. People may come and go as they please, playing whatever and however they feel moved.
This free-flowing style appeals to some, especially those who prefer to improvise and express themselves without guidance. However, newcomers may find these environments intimidating or confusing, especially if they’re unsure how to join in or keep the rhythm.
Some potential challenges of unfacilitated circles can include:
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Lack of group cohesion
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Overly dominant players or competing rhythms
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Limited listening or collaboration resulting in clashing rhythms
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Energy that feels chaotic or ungrounded
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Environments where heavy substance use is present
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Both Styles Have Value
Facilitated and unfacilitated drum circles each serve different needs, preferences, and personalities.
If you’re seeking a more heart-centered, intentional, and welcoming experience—especially as a beginner, or if you’re longing for deeper community connection—then our Joyful Rhythms facilitated drum circles may offer the supportive, enriching space you’re looking for.
Unique Experiences, Every Time
As your facilitator, I’ll be your guide on this rhythmic journey—but the true magic of our Joyful Rhythms drum circle experiences lies in the power of collective participation. Everyone contributes. Everyone matters. We’re all explorers in this rhythm realm, co-creating something fresh and meaningful in every gathering.
No two circles are ever the same. The energy, the people, the intentions, the beats—we shape the moment together. I love to weave in new ingredients each time, whether it’s introducing unique instruments, exploring different techniques, inviting themed inspiration, or gathering in new indoor or outdoor spaces that nourish our senses.
Each session becomes a living, breathing, evolving experience—a sacred space to connect, express, release, and play. In this shared rhythm, we find freedom. In this freedom, we find ourselves.
Photos: Conscious Fest – Mission Plaza Sept ’24. More images > Gallery
The Power of Entrainment
As you begin to merge with the rhythmic beats, something subtle and profound takes place—you start to feel more peaceful, more joyful, more connected, both inwardly and outwardly. This is more than just playing drums for fun—this is entrainment in motion.
Entrainment is a natural, harmonious phenomenon where our bodies and brains begin to sync with external rhythms. It’s what happens when you tap your foot to a beat without even thinking, or when a room full of drummers gradually settles into the same groove without a word. In our circles, this shared rhythm becomes a heartbeat—a living pulse of group coherence and connection.
As heartbeats begin to soften into harmony and brainwaves gently align, stress begins to melt away. Awareness expands. A shared rhythm emerges, and with it, a deep sense of unity and belonging. Many describe feeling relaxed, uplifted, even transformed—as if they’ve returned to something ancient and sacred within themselves.
Entrainment reminds us that we are wired for connection—and rhythm is one of the oldest, most joyful doorways back to that truth.
Benefits for Well-being
And the added bonus? It’s oh-so-GOOD for you!
Our drum circles are not only FUN—they’re also a pathway to well-being. Rooted in ancient traditions and integrated in a model of modern, evidence-based practices, our drumming experiences offer a wide range of therapeutic and holistic health benefits for your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you seek stress relief, emotional release, or simply a moment of pure joy, these sessions nourish every aspect of your being.
Who Is This For?
Everyone is welcome.
Whether you’ve never touched a drum before—or you’ve been drumming for years—there’s a place for you in the circle.
Absolutely no prior experience is necessary, even if you think you have “no rhythm.” Many people feel drawn to the beat but hesitate because they believe they’re not musical. Here’s the truth: you don’t need to be a musician to join in. This is about the experience, not performance or perfection.
Our circles are designed to be inclusive, encouraging, and empowering. Participants are invited to express themselves freely and fully, without fear of doing it “wrong.” If you can breathe, you can drum.
Seasoned percussionists are welcome too! Your presence adds depth and inspiration to the collective rhythm. Just like in nature, a diverse ecosystem creates the most vibrant harmony.
Types of Events
We offer a variety of drum circles for different audiences and intentions. Be sure to check the details of each event for age ranges and descriptions. Some offerings include:
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Adults-only circles for deeper exploration or themed gatherings.
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Family-friendly events where all generations can play and connect.
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Targeted wellness circles for specific communities (such as seniors, cancer support groups, caregivers, mental health care, non-profit groups, and more).
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Travelers and visitors to the area are always welcome to join the rhythm!
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No matter the event, know that you’ll be stepping into a space that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all—people of all identities, cultures, and abilities. We gather not just to make music, but to make connection, joy, and community.
“Everyone gather together in peace.”
WHEN and WHERE?
Join us as we create unforgettable memories filled with rhythm, laughter, and the joy of living life to the fullest!
We have new dates and locations continually being added throughout San Luis Obispo County. Or offer to host an event!
Drums are provided
I have plenty of drums and rhythm/percussion instruments available!
If you have your own drum – bring it!
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- Percussion instruments such as rattles and shakers are welcome, too!
- *Please note instruments with TONES, such as handpan drums, are NOT suggested for these events unless otherwise mentioned.
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MORE INFORMATION:
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- Request or Host a Facilitated Drum Circle Experience for your Group, Organization, or special occasion!
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Your Facilitator
Dee DiGioia, founder of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity in Baywood-Los Osos, is a dedicated practitioner and guide in drum facilitation, sound journeying, and mindfulness-based nature connection. Her expertise as a Drum Circle Facilitator has been honed through extensive training, including “Village Music Circles” with Arthur Hull, a world-famous pioneer in drum facilitation / “Rhythm 2 Recovery” with Summer Lall / “Drum Leadership Training” with Jim Donovan, and more. Continually advancing her skills in drumming and sound journeying, Dee transitioned from a full-time role in special education to fully concentrate on expanding her “YOUniversity” outreach and services promoting health and well-being across San Luis Obispo County.
