Updated 5/24/23 with new potluck location and registration deadline.
The WVU School of Medicine Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee invites the Health Sciences Campus community to a drumming circle Monday, May 8, at noon in front of the Chestnut Ridge Center.
Aruna Jaward, a recreational therapist, will lead the circle.
Jaward shares: “In African countries, like Sierra Leone where I was born, these drums represent the soul of the community they are found in. They are used for celebrating ceremonial events like weddings, funerals and rituals within the community. In much of Africa, drums can be considered a primitive telephone. Sine drums are used to communicate with tribes that are miles and miles away. The cultural significance of drumming is that almost all ancient cultures had some form of tribal percussion that they used in ceremonies which helped to form a common bond between all civilization. Having a beat and being able to create music unite us as humans. Drumming are rhythm are powerful tools because research has shown that drumming induces deep relaxation, lowers blood pressure and reduces stress. Moreover, drumming promotes the production of endorphins, the body's own morphine-like painkillers, and can help control pain and those suffering from grief.”
Looking forward to next month, the committee will host an International Potluck on Thursday, June 1, from 5-7 p.m. in The Market pavilion. Attendees are asked to RSVP and share the food/dish they will prepare by May 30 at www.PerfectPotluck.com/ODNZ6443.