“Joyful Rhythms” Drum Circles
Facilitated Rhythm Experiences for Health and Well-being
Discover the transformative power of rhythm and connection through creative play in our fun-focused, dynamic drumming circles!
PUBLIC events:
-
-
- Check the calendar for upcoming Drum Circles around SLO County.
-
Or schedule a PRIVATE Drum Circle:
A personalized experience thoughtfully customized to meet your specific needs. [Senior Communities / Assisted Living and Memory Care / Nonprofit or Special Interest Groups / Corporate / Business / Professional Development / Family / Friends / Co-workers / Special Occasions / Celebrations / Youth Groups / Schools / Colleges / Hospitals / Mental Health Facilities / Retreats / Wineries / Hotels…]
Join us as we create unforgettable memories filled with rhythm, laughter, and the joy of living life to the fullest! In our vibrant drumming circles, you’ll find inspiration and a space to explore your inner rhythm guided by playful rhythmic activities and opportunities for free-form, creative expression.
Our circles welcome those who have never touched a drum before (but always felt drawn to the rhythmic beats). Participants are encouraged to express themselves freely without worrying about “getting it right”. It’s more about experience than technical skill.
This is more than just drumming—it’s an experience and a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and joyful connection that resonates deep within the soul. As you merge in with the rhythmic beats, you’ll find yourself gaining a profound sense of peace, joy, and a sense of connection, inside and out, through synchrony and group coherence.
Our circles are an invitation to unite in harmony and shared purpose. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people and find out that we have more in common than we realize! According to the Bamana people of West Africa, the djembe drum was named from the saying “Anke djé, anke bé” which roughly translates to“Everyone gather together in peace.”
And the added bonus? It’s oh-so-GOOD for you!
Our drumming experiences are a celebration of life, love, and the healing energy of community. 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.
Facilitated Drumming
I will be your facilitator and guide you through this journey, however, the beauty of our drum circles is that everyone contributes to the overall experience. We’re all explorers in this rhythmic adventure!
No two circles are alike! It’s the energy each one of us brings to the collective that makes each circle unique. And I’m always exploring different ways to facilitate the group whether it’s through new instruments, new venues, or varying activities, techniques, inspirations, themes, and more.
NOTE: There are two main kinds of drum circles. Our ‘Joyful Rhythms’ drum circles are facilitated experiences where the facilitator (Dee DiGioia) gently guides participants through an intentional process, using rhythm to inspire connection and foster a sense of community. It can also be referred to as “recreational drumming”. This differs from other drum circles, which are more free-form, with spontaneous, improvised drumming, people coming and going, and no set structure or leader. Each has its own unique value and impact.
Drums are provided
I have plenty of drums and rhythm/percussion instruments available!
Can I bring my own drum?
If you have a drum– YES! Bring it!
-
-
- 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.
-
WHO is this for?
Absolutely NO previous drumming experience is necessary, even if you think you have no rhythm!
If you’ve felt the call to drum but hesitated, this is your opportunity to explore in a welcoming, non-judgmental space.
From first-time beginners to seasoned percussionists, everyone is welcome to join our facilitated drum circles with a curious heart and an open spirit.
Adults only, unless otherwise state in the event description.
A welcoming, inclusive space for all: This is a safe space for people of all identities, cultures, and abilities to gather and play!
Visitors to the area are welcome!
WHEN and WHERE?
We have new dates and locations continually being added throughout San Luis Obispo County.
-
-
- Check our Calendar or Event/Registration links on MY805Tix
- Or offer to host a circle (at your home or venue)!
-
RELATED EXPERIENCES:
NEW! “One Voice, One Heart” Song Circles
Host or Request Circles– Request a Facilitated Drum Circle for your Group, Organization, or special occasion!
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 recently 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.
The YOUniversity offers Drum Circles, Sound Journeys, and Nature Retreat Experiences. Find ALL of our events on the Calendar page.