When Body and Mind Become Overloaded – Try Drumming

Physical inflammation is something we all recognise – a cold blocks our nose, we sprain an ankle, or we get a sharp pain in our back. But have you ever felt so overloaded that your entire being feels ‘swollen’? The cause may be energetic inflammation, which can be alleviated by various shamanistic treatments.

I came across an article by shamanic practitioner Mara Bishop, in which she describes energetic inflammation as the body’s defensive reaction to situations perceived as threatening. Just as physical inflammation tries to remove the cause of the problem, minimise its impact, or create a protective barrier, our energetic body reacts in a similar way. But instead of inflamed tissue, the experience may manifest as anxiety or mental overwhelm.

Short-term situations – a long drive in traffic or an angry phone conversation with your partner – disturb us momentarily, but we usually recover quickly. It’s the chronic situations that become critical, where our body remains stuck in this defensive state.

Help from Drumming?

Bishop tells the story of her client James, who suffered from constant joint pain. Three years earlier, his father had died after a long illness, there were changes at work, and a long-term relationship ended. The energy system of this high-achieving, fast-paced individual had become ‘swollen’, as it were – emotions had condensed energetically into his joints and muscles. After attending a shamanic session where energy was cleared and the overwhelm was calmed, James experienced significant improvement.

Shamanic healing is a holistic energy treatment in which a shaman or shamanic practitioner works with the client through healing spirits to restore balance and wellbeing. The healing may use drumming, ceremonies, elements of nature, power animals, and the healing power of herbs. I myself have used various Tibetan bowls and shamanic drums in my treatments to calm the mind and open energetic blockages. Bishop says her clients feel ‘clearer’ and ‘lighter’ after a session, and I’ve noticed the same in my own clients.

It’s not just about resolving individual problems, but a deeper process where practical and energetic strategies are developed so that overwhelming situations begin to feel more manageable. Holistic energy healing also helps us to be present in the moment, enabling us to better understand what’s happening in our own mind and body and grasp the root cause of stress.

In today’s intense world, overwhelm is becoming increasingly common. Fortunately, energetic inflammation can ease when we make conscious choices that nourish us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

The most important thing is to listen to ourselves and recognise when we’re stuck in a defensive state. Shamanic work, drumming, and connection with nature can help restore balance and create space for true healing.