Last month, Jewish Family Service had the opportunity to offer a grief drum circle. I’ll admit, I was hesitant at first because I had never done a drum circle. I wondered what level of experience would be needed and whether I would feel comfortable participating. I was relieved to learn that no previous experience was necessary. As we began, I quickly realized that this experience had very little to do with skill. It was about community, connection, and having a space to process something we all shared: grief.
Interestingly, no one explained what had brought them to the circle or what they were grieving. We didn’t need to know each other’s stories. We simply knew that everyone in the room was carrying some kind of grief. There was something incredibly comforting about that shared understanding. We could come exactly as we were, without having to explain or put words around our loss.
As the drumming continued, I noticed how differently people responded to the experience. Some seemed to process through thought and reflection; others seemed to let go of that intellectual part of themselves and simply become engaged in the rhythm. There was something very natural and intuitive about it—just being present, listening, moving, and allowing the rhythm to move us. For me, that was one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.
Our facilitator, Vanessa Davis, did an amazing job guiding us through each exercise. She created a space that felt welcoming and safe while helping us remain focused and connected to the process.
I left the experience reminded that grief doesn't always need words. Sometimes it needs space. Sometimes it needs movement, rhythm, community, and connection. And sometimes, knowing that other people are sitting beside you carrying their own grief can be enough.
If you’re interested in our next grief drum circle, let us know! We will be offering another opportunity for grief processing, Beads of Courage, on September 15 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. This is an experience to make something tangible to remind you of your loved one.
If you are interested in attending or would like more information, please reach out to me at ashleyfranklin@jfsnashville.org or 615-354-1662. We would love to have you join us.
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