It’s official: drumming is good for you

For most it will come as old news from the University of the Bleedin´ Obvious that drumming is a great way to relieve stress and relax, but experts are now encouraging the use of drumming workshops to help those with addictions or mental health issues to work through their problems.

Neurologist Dr Barry Bittman, CEO of the Yamaha and Wellness Institute in Pensylvania, believes that everyone has an innate sense of rhythm and we are 'hard-wired' to play music.

Speaking to BBC News he said: "I believe we are hard wired for music there is evidence that even in the womb the foetus has rhythm. Drums are accessible and don't present the challenge of a learning curve - anyone regardless of handicap can sit and beat out a rhythm on a drum."

Drumming can help to induce a deep sense of relaxation, which reduces stress and lowers blood pressure and can also energise the drummer and release tension through the physical activity. Studies have found that communal drumming has social benefits as well for people who are feeling isolated, as it is a good way to build up positive relationships. Drum centres have started to help people with alcoholism, autism and even terminally ill patients discover the therapeutic effects of drumming.

So next time you´re justifying your latest piece of kit just tell yourself it´s cheaper than therapy.