Facilitated Drum & 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!
No experience required! Drums provided.
About “Joyful Rhythms” – Facilitated Drum Circles
At Mindful Kindful YOUniversity, our Joyful Rhythms drum circles are facilitated experiences—crafted with intention and heart, and guided by trained facilitator Dee DiGioia.
Participants are gently supported through an engaging process that uses rhythm to spark creativity, connection, and joy. We emphasize social connection, emotional expression, and the transformative 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—no prior drumming experience necessary!
Through simple instructions, playful rhythm games, and dynamic activities, the group is invited to explore the instruments while building confidence and connection. Over time, the music begins to flow more freely and organically, as we co-create a rhythm ensemble that’s alive and ever-changing.
While guided throughout the experience, participants are also given ample space 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.
How Facilitated Drum Circles Differ from Unfacilitated Ones:
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.
While our Joyful Rhythms circles are always facilitated, it’s worth understanding the other common type of drum circle—unfacilitated (or free-form) drum circles—which is usually what people think of when they hear “drum circle”. 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. There may also be others there for dancing, fire twirling, flow arts, and more happening – individuals expressing themselves in a variety of ways during the drumming. However, newcomers may find these environments intimidating or confusing, especially if they’re unsure how to join in, play, or keep the rhythm, or if they feel like there is too much going on.
Some potential challenges of UNfacilitated circles may include: Lack of group cohesion; Overly dominant players or competing rhythms; Limited listening or collaboration resulting in clashing rhythms; Energy that feels chaotic, ungrounded, or overstimulating; Environments where heavy smoking, alchohol, or substance use may be present (this is often the stereotype which may or may not represent unfacilitated circles you may have seen or participated in).
Both facilitated and unfacilitated styles have value. Each offers a different kind of experience and serve different needs, preferences, and personalities.
JOIN US!!!
If you’re seeking a heart-centered, intentional, and welcoming experience—especially as a beginner or someone longing for meaningful community—our Joyful Rhythms facilitated drum circles offer a safe, enriching, and uplifting space to connect to your rhythm and one another.
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 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 (and beyond!)
OR offer to HOST an event or on-going program!
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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Some events will have a special twist: “Found Sound” – a wildly creative, joy-filled adventure in rhythm where anything that makes a sound can become your instrument!
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SLO Life Magazine: “The Power of Drum Circles”
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New dates and locations continually being added throughout San Luis Obispo County.
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Be the first to hear about our upcoming events! 
Questions? Contact Dee DiGioia -
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Your Facilitator
Dee DiGioia is the founder of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity in Baywood-Los Osos and a passionate Drum Circle Facilitator, Sound Journey Guide, and mindfulness-based nature connection leader. Her expertise as a Drum Circle Facilitator has been honed through extensive training from world-renowned programs, including Arthur Hull’s Village Music Circles, Rhythm 2 Recovery (with Summer Lall), Drum Leadership Training (with Jim Donovan), and Upbeat Drum Circles (with Christine Stevens). Dee brings heart, rhythm, and purpose to every circle she leads. After retiring from a career in special education in 2024, she now devotes herself full-time to promoting peace and uplifting communities across San Luis Obispo County through rhythm, connection, and well-being.