Surrounded by the strength and inspiration of the majestic local mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the hundreds of temples that dot this incredible landscape, I find myself on a transformative journey with my personal training program. Progressing gradually yet purposefully, I am weaving together a tapestry of everything I’ve learned along my path into a cohesive practice that resonates with all aspects of my life.
My journey hasn’t always felt harmonious. For a long time, I grappled intensely with my myriad passions: the tranquility of Tai Chi, the deep grounding of yoga, the enriching healing arts, and the assertiveness of martial arts—each tugging at my heartstrings. Simultaneously, my passion for drumming—deeply rooted in traditional rhythms but also pushing me toward the exploration of studio work—coexisted with my love for writing and visual art. It felt like I was being pulled apart, as if these diverse interests were competing forces rather than components of a larger whole.
However, through reflection and introspection, I’ve come to realize that these passions are not disparate entities; they are threads of a single fabric, interwoven in ways that I had failed to appreciate before. The past couple of months spent in solitude have gifted me the space to deepen my studies and to explore these connections. While I cherish the camaraderie that comes from playing with others, this time of introspection has allowed me to dig deep into my passions, allowing forgotten insights to resurface—much like rediscovering treasures that have remained hidden, awaiting the right moment to shine.
The more I practice and engage with my art, the more inspiration flows through me and resonates within. I’ve found myself drawn into long, immersive sessions, reminiscent of those youthful days when I would lose myself in hours of drumming. Eliminating distractions has enabled me to explore and embrace the fine art of drumming in ways that feel both exhilarating and rejuvenating.
In my ongoing exploration, I delve into videos of other drummers, revisiting past sessions of my own. There’s a magic that happens when I sit down to drum and establish a true connection with the music. Though it may sound clichéd, in those moments, the drums truly reveal themselves, imparting wisdom and insights that resonate on a profound level.
This journey of study and self-exploration is something I believe many can relate to. It’s not uncommon for some to hesitate in seeking formal instruction, opting instead for personal discovery in the rhythm of their own practice. Each beat becomes a teacher, guiding them toward unique insights that enrich their experience in ways that structured lessons sometimes cannot.
Currently, I’m immersing myself in the rhythm of Makru. My excitement is palpable as I explore the nuances of playing djembe solos, especially when experimenting with different “feels” at exhilarating speeds. These revelations are not just technical achievements; they connect me further to the pulse of the music and its cultural significance. I look forward to sharing my progress, including videos showcasing this rhythm, so stay tuned to witness this unfolding journey.
Ultimately, why do we study? It is not just to refine our skills or accumulate knowledge; it is to deepen our connection to ourselves, our history, and the vast tapestry of artistic expression that surrounds us. By honoring our diverse passions and studying them with humility and intention, we can create a unique voice that reflects our own journey while paying homage to the rich traditions that inspire us. In this way, we transform our experiences into a celebration of creativity and connection, allowing our art to resonate in harmony with the world around us.