Drumming and Its Benefits to Health

Drumming is a fun activity that also brings various health benefits. Health experts and past research studies claim that drumming is an excellent form of stress reliever. It increases coordination and flexibility, improves posture, and is a great stimulus to enhance cognitive function. Lastly, playing drums can be a form of physical exercise.

To understand further how drumming can improve health, here are the facts:

Physical Health

Drumming is a vigorous activity that reinforces the function of the cardiovascular system. Following a long drumming session, you will feel as if you have spent time working out. A prolonged cardiovascular exercise can help release endorphins, or the “feel good” hormones in the body.  Playing the drums requires the use of the upper limbs and lower limbs in order to create sound. When these parts of the body are at work, it can be perceived as a physical exercise which therefore strengthens the muscles and they become stronger.

Weight Loss

Sports scientists from Gloucestershire University posit that drummers can be compared to sportsmen in terms of physical ability. By playing drums, you can actually burn 400 to 600 calories. This will also increase the heart rate by 190 beats per minute.  Overweight individuals who dislike working out can choose drumming as an alternative for weigh loss. Without any knowledge, it is easy to learn to play drum. Through drum lessons, you can learn the skills well and at the same enjoy the opportunity of shedding some pounds.

Cognitive Aspect

A lot of drummers clear their minds and release frustration, anger, and accumulated energy by playing drums. Drumming is found to be an excellent technique to de-stress and relax. It can also decrease anxiety and increase self-esteem. Playing drums is beneficial in reducing work fatigue and improving mood. Since drumming is about memorizing beats and rhythms, it can improve memory and boost the totality of mental health.

Concentration and Focus

Playing drums makes use of diverse thought processes. It also involves the different parts of the brain that are not utilized during other activities. The endorphins released from the brain help in improving focus and concentration for long periods, even after the drumming session is over. Playing drums can also boost self-confidence and help the mind in establishing achievable goals. Hence, playing drums is recommended for individuals with ADD or those who are on the autistic range.

Anger Management

Playing drums is beneficial in helping people recognize their emotions particularly those that trigger anger, and boost their awareness of the situations and emotions that can worsen them. If an emotion or situation is shown in music, the healthy choice for stating that emotion can be settled and problem solving as well as conflict resolution can be exercised in an optimistic manner. Drumming is likewise utilized by therapists to aid patients in properly venting emotions and anger. Drumming can also be a non-verbal form of communication in which the capacity to listen to the drumming is required to communicate on the drums. Playing drums can reverse the impact of stress especially at the molecular level.

Treating Alzheimer’s Disease

In a study conducted by Clair et al. in 1995, it was revealed that patients with Alzheimer’s and who have the ability to play drums can better connect with their families. The consistency of musicality may give tedious reactions to the system that make a couple of cognitive demands on individuals with dementia. Although drumming is not a specific cure, it can help alleviate the progression of the disease.

Treating Parkinson’s

Rhythm cues can assist in retraining the cerebrum following a stroke or other neurological disability. In a research conducted by Michael Thaurt from the University’s Center of Biomedical Research in Music, it was shown that the beat of the drums can moderate rhythms and aids patients with Parkinson’s disease to move consistently. 

Playing drums is an activity that delivers several health benefits. A lot of music schools offer drum lessons at very affordable costs. Try enrolling in this kind of program and you will experience not just fun but also an improved sense of well-being. Drumming is for all ages and it only takes is to enroll in a music school in order to take the first step. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Eyelash Extensions

eyelash extensionsEyelash extensions have boomed a lot today that they have captured the fashion industry by storm. It seems that every celebrity won’t appear on TV without those long beautiful eyelashes on. Obviously, additional lashes make a huge difference on the face, making it livelier and lovelier. If it is your first time to hear about eyelash extensions, it would be nice to give Rakis – expert in lash extensions a try. But before entering the salon, here are some things you should know about having eyelash extensions.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are strands of artificial eyelashes which are usually made of synthetic material. They are longer and thicker than natural eyelashes and are individually glued in between natural lashes using a special agent to give a beautiful, natural and luscious look on face particularly the eye area. Eyelash extensions are perfect add-ons to any special occasion or even ordinary day-to-day wear. They are generally weightless that you can wear them permanently without damaging the other natural lashes.

Are Eyelash Extensions Safe?

Eyelash extensions are applied on your natural eyelashes individually with a non-toxic bonding agent specially designed for eyelash extensions. The application technique is not harmful at all because the strands won’t touch the skin but just the natural eyelashes. When the adhesive dries up, you can enjoy the normal movements of your eye.

How Long Does it Take for Eyelash Extensions to be Done?

The entire process of application normally takes two hours as performed by an experienced esthetician. You will lay comfortably on a lounge chair with your eyes closed. Before the eyelash extensions are bonded, the esthetician will clean the lashes thoroughly using a special solution that will take off any makeup or oil residue from the natural lashes. An under eye gel pad is placed on the lower lashes of eye. Synthetic strands are then glued individually in between each natural eyelashes followed by a gently combing to ensure all the lashes won’t tangle. The same process takes place when refilling however completion time takes a shorter period.

How Long Will a Set of Eyelash Extensions Last?

The span of having eyelashes differs from one person to another depending on their lifestyle. When applied correctly, eyelash extensions can last three to four months. Overall, touchups take place anywhere between two to three weeks. Take note that falling lashes is just a normal thing, hence you can visit your salon and ask your esthetician to refill on the missing parts. In order of eyelash extensions to last longer, practice the habit of being extra-careful by not rubbing your eyes.

Can I Apply Mascara after Having Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions appear to be long and dark in color which actually gives the illusion that you are wearing mascara on it. Hence, it is not required. If, however, you would want to wear one, water-based mascara is recommended. Avoid using waterproof mascara for this will only damage the eyelashes. Care is also needed when washing off the mascara. Use a gentle facial cleanser to clean the face and the eye area. Also, wear mascara only when the eyelash extensions have completely dried after bonding.

Can I Exercise, Shower, Swim or Visit a Spa While Wearing Eyelash Extensions?

Yes, you can do all these activities as long as the eyelash extensions have dried up completely. Give it approximately two days and then you can do the normal daily routine and other hobbies. The bonding agent used is durable yet non-toxic that you can enjoy swimming, exercising and other activities that necessitates getting wet. Special care is still required when doing all these. Don’t wipe your face rigorously with a towel, instead pat the towel lightly and gently.

Can I Use Eyelash Curlers?

Eyelash curlers are no longer recommended because the extensions alone are already long and curled upwards. The use mechanical eyelash curlers will only damage the extensions and even the other natural lashes. Any occurrence of damage on the eyelashes can possibly affect the eyes therefore, avoid any eyelash perming device.

Are Eyelashes Suitable for Everyone?

Eyelashes are suitable for everyone as long as you are at the right age to wear makeup and as long as there are natural lashes to glue the extensions onto. The exceptions are – ladies who have an eye infection or have just undergone eye surgery. Also, eyelash extensions is not for you if you are the type of person who keeps on rubbing the eye.