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Paula Vogler, Special to Wicked Local. Read full article HERE
On a recent June day, popular songs that get the toes tapping and feet moving were heard coming from the community center in Sharon. Those songs also served to release the inner drummer in the participants in the Adult Center’s first Drums Alive program called Golden Beats.
The sitting exercise program got the blood pumping and the arms moving through simple repetitive sequences following instructor Julie Quill’s lead using drum sticks and a large exercise ball.
Quill, a certified therapeutic recreational specialist, said she got certified in the Drums Alive program because it fit in with her working with people of all ages and abilities.
“I find it fun,” Quill said. “I find it kind of mood changing.”
She said the Drums Alive program is the only evidence based program with documented proof as to why it works so well and how it makes a person feel so good.
From the positive effects music and rhythm have on the brain and the social interaction piece to the eye-hand coordination and sequencing and memory building, the program is appealing to adults and children alike.
Quill said during the pandemic she even did zoom drumming programs. People used whatever they had on hand to participate. Some had wooden spoons while others used couch cushions to drum on. She said even pool noodles cut in half work. People with injuries or limitations like bad hips can sit on a couch and drum on boxes or a chair in front of them.
“You can make it your own workout,” said Quill. “You can use anything as an alternative. You can even use your own hands.”