Health Tips from Marty Bowers, RN.

HEALTH TIPS FOR DRUMMERS

African Drumming is so much fun yet can at times be stressful on your body! Marty Bowers, RN of Medical Massage offers the following tips to increase your comfort while playing and decrease the risk of repetitive injury.

  • Maintain good posture while drumming (sitting on the front edge of your chair keeps the spine in good alignment.

  • Tension occurs during play. Take time to relax upper body and shake hands and arms often.

  • Stretch frequently and don’t forget to warm up properly before you begin to play.

  • Breathe while you play. Tension causes shallow and improper breathing. Your tissues need lots of oxygen, especially while drumming!

  • Don’t forget your arms are attached to your shoulders, neck and back. Pay attention to how your body feels and listen to what it is telling you. If it hurts...Stop!

  • Use different movements to break holding patterns that can lead to repetitive injuries.

  • Smiling is a great way to break body tension and holding patterns

  • After playing, stretch hands and arms. If hands are bruised or sore, use ice packs or cold soaks in the sink with iced water.

  • Arnica and Rescue Remedy cream helps accelerate healing from bruising and swelling.

  • Work on strengthening your upper body by lifting light weights and stretching.

    BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
    · Increases circulation
    · Relieves muscle soreness
    · Increases range of motion
    · Tones, strengthens, and energizes
    · Firms muscles
    · Stress reduction
    · Increased sense of well being
    · Removes toxins

 

AZRC Copyright 2007