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.
What’s the difference between a facilitated and NON-facilitated drum circle?
Most people are familiar with non-facilitated drum circles thay have seen or participated in on the beach or at a park, for example. It’s important to know the benefits and differences of our facilitated drum circles.
JOIN US!!!
If you’re seeking a heart-centered, intentional, supportive 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 of Community Drumming 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!
- “Golden Rhythms” Senior Edition
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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.
These drumming experiences offer 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.”
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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“Golden Rhythms” – Drumming for Health & Wellness: Senior Edition
“Rhythm YOUniversity” – Drumming for Health & Wellness
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 Drumming Wellness Facilitator
Dee DiGioia, founder of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity, is a Certified Therapeutic Sound Practitioner, HealthRhythms® Drumming Wellness Facilitator, Mindfulness-Meditation Teacher, and Nature Connection Guide (Shinrin Yoku–Forest Bathing).
With over 40 years of training and experience in education and holistic healing arts—including extensive studies across additional healing modalities—Dee is passionate about sharing the skills and practices that became her lifeline while navigating depression, burnout, and recovery from complex trauma. By integrating simple yet powerful practices into daily life, she guides others to meet life’s challenges with greater ease and to transform their lives into harmony with their true nature.
Rooted in the Latin word universitas—meaning “whole” or “entire”—Mindful Kindful YOUniversity offers therapeutic and transformational wellness programs designed to reduce stress and support emotional, social, and physical well-being, serving individuals to entire communities and organizations. Dee weaves evidence-based practices with ancient wisdom into a holistic tapestry of sound energy, rhythmic alchemy, and mindful presence—nourishing deep inner peace, joy, resilience, and radiant well-being.
Facilitator Drumming Training:
Dee’s expertise as a Drum Circle Facilitator has been shaped through extensive training with world-renowned programs and leaders, including:
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- Village Music Circles Facilitators Intensive with Arthur Hull (2024)
- HealthRHYTHMS with Remo (2025)
- Beat the Odds: SEL Skill Building with Arts & Healing Initiative (2025)
- Rhythm 2 Recovery/Resilience with Summer Lall (2023)
- Drum Leadership Training with Jim Donovan (2023)
- Upbeat Drum Circles with Christine Stevens (2024)
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Dee infuses every drum circle with intention, compassion, and heart—sharing the transformative power of rhythm to uplift individuals and strengthen communities.