HealthRHYTHMS BENEFITS 
7 Evidence-Based Elements of HealthRHYTHMS Group Empowerment Drumming 
Stress-Reduction 

HealthRHYTHMS (Group Composite Drumming) strengthened the immune system by increasing 
Natural Killer (NK) cell activity. (Bittman, Alternative Therapies, 2001) This protocol also reversed 
multiple components of the human stress response on the genomic level, not just reducing but reversing 19 genetic switches that turn on the stress response believed responsible in the development of common diseases. (Bittman, Medical Science Monitor, 2005) 

Exercise 
Drumming is an accessible exercise which burns calories and improves mood and may reduce the risk 
of disease. A Norwegian study of 25,000 women age 20-54 that performed leisure time exercises at 
least 4 hours/week experienced a 37% reduction in the risk of breast cancer. (Thune, Brenn, Lund, 
Gaard, 1997) 

Self-Expression 
HealthRHYTHMS empowers people to move beyond their perceived boundaries.
Camaraderie/Support.  A 1992 Duke University Study linked lengthened lifespan with having a close confidant. 
HealthRHYTHMS protocol builds camaraderie and support by creating a safe space where people feel 
comfortable sharing and offering support. 

Nurturing 
HealthRHYTHMS protocol creates a level playing field where support of growth and development is 
encouraged. As equal partners in this process participants often discover inner strength and 
encouragement by those sharing the experience. 

Spirituality 
HealthRHYTHMS is a group hand-drumming protocol. According to Jan Gregory, Adjunct Professor 
of Liturgy, Worship and Spirituality at Hartford Seminary, “Hand drumming is an ancient art that has 
been used in many cultures. The music of drums creates a conduit to the Divine. This is an opportunity 
to experience worship with our bodies as well as our minds”. 

Music-Making 
Systematic inquiry into the relationship between music and brain function is one of the most rapidly 
developing fields of human research. “Music making offers extensive exercise for brain cells and their 
synapses (connections). It would be difficult to find another activity that engages so many of the brain’s 
systems.”(Weinberger, N., 1998)