The session will include a short presentation about the health benefits of HealthRHYTHMS, an evidence-based group empowerment drumming program, and how it can be successfully offered from children to older adults to special populations. This will be followed by an interactive session of HealthRHYTHMS.

HealthRHYTHMS is a well-established evidence-based creative music expression protocol supported by several peer-reviewed scientific publications focusing on both biological and psychosocial outcomes in a host of subjects. Over the last 18 years, the protocol has been extensively utilized by more than 6,000 trained facilitators in multiple countries for individuals facing numerous health and psychosocial challenges. The program is offered as a cost-effective strategy for fostering group-based nurturing, support, camaraderie and self-expression. HealthRHYTHMS is particularly well suited as a stress-reduction strategy that builds self-esteem, respect and empathy. It has been used extensively for individuals facing the challenges of grief, anger, loss, loneliness and conflict. The program is both enjoyable and engaging – fostering opportunities to build supportive relationships and mutual respect – often leading to positive personal and group transformations. In addition to its application in normal populations, the program has been utilized extensively for at-risk youth, older adults, developmentally disabled, cognitively impaired and behaviorally-challenged individuals, as well as those suffering from a host of life-threatening illnesses.

The program is one hour of fun-filled interactive and empowering, group drumming session utilizing a ten-step protocol that requires no prior musical experience. Trained facilitators actively engage individuals of all ages in the program. HealthRHYTHMS was innovated by Barry Bittman, MD, neurologist, researcher, and pioneer in mind body medicine.