By: Bec Robertson
Head Trainer
How does it sound to access a place of incredible healing, where you can create your future simply by dreaming it? This is shamanism. It has been around for thousands of years, and pre-dates all organized religion. It is often said to be the first form of psychotherapy.
The ancient shamanic beliefs are that everything has a spirit and is made up of energy. Therefore, healing and wellbeing are created in the spirit world before manifesting in the physical world. Interacting with the spirit world involves utilizing altered states of consciousness through natural gateways such as rhythmic drumming, dance, nature and music. In that altered state of consciousness, imagination and energy rule. A shaman who is properly trained can interact with the spirit world to facilitate a healing environment. It is then up to the individual to take that healing energy into their everyday world.
Fast, rhythmic drumming at a consistent tempo of around 220BPM creates an altered state of consciousness. There is a lot to shamanic healing and shamanic journey work (the journey of the shaman to access healing and guidance in the spirit world). If you want to learn more about this powerful practice watch my VLOG series.
I credit MC DJ Pab with introducing me to the world of shamanic healing. During his childhood in Chile, Pab grew up with shamanism as an important practice to support wellbeing and health. It is no surprise that he went on to become a drum & bass producer, MC and radio host. His love of fast drums and music as a consciousness tool has taken him to many places and festival stages around the world. His latest music release is a remix of Feel Free feat. Pab by Cal Jamma. Out on 18 September 2021, this remix is an anthem for the global ascension taking place. Presave the track here.
We asked Pab to share more of his knowledge about drumming, use of drumming to create altered states and the concept of sonic driving.
HB: What is sonic driving?
Pab: Opposed to popular belief, shamans using hallucinogenic plants in ceremonies as the only technique applied to obtain an altered state of being is not correct. Ceremonies are a very minor percentage.
Sonic driving is the tool predominately used. This is a form of repetitive drumming with a rhythmic monotonous beat and speed with variations. It is done by a shaman’s drum, often called the “canoe” or “horse”. Some cultures also use rattlers and other percussive instruments. This has been used for thousands of years.
HB: How does rhythmic drumming benefit our well-being?
Pab: There are many benefits to overall health and well-being via rhythmic drumming of different kinds. It has shown to improve mental, physical and emotional health in individuals.
Within mental health it has been used in the treatment of soldier’s PTSD and healing after neurological injuries. Drumming has also can boost the immune system, help with the reduction of depression and anxiety. Drumming is clean and pure power.
HB: How can someone use drumming to develop a more creative state of awareness?
Pab: In my opinion, drumming for journeying (meditative state) can be used in so many adaptable ways. That is one the beautiful things about it. You can tailor it to what you need, once you learn techniques that work for you.
On a personal note, I have used it for depression and anxiety with very good results. If you have any knowledge of hypnagogia, it can work in a very similar way. Meaning it can help you with creativity and creative processes that can lead to a more creative state of awareness in everyday life. I find it rather awe inspiring.
A message from MC DJ Pab to all the light warriors of the world.
Experience shamanic journey work with Bec Robertson Yoga Athlete
Watch Bec’s interview with shaman, Dr Alberto Villoldo
Disclaimer: The Headspace and Bass Movement is not trained to provide or administer medical advice/treatment. Please do not hesitate to consult a trusted medical physician for help with any medical issues, diagnosis or symptoms. This includes any issues relating to mental health or addiction. We work alongside the mainstream medical system, not as a replacement for it. We believe that natural health and healing are best utilised in conjunction with treatment from trusted and qualified medical and health practitioners.