Choosing Shaman Drums With Perfect Rustic Decorating Accessories

Want to give your home authentic rustic style decor? Try using Shaman drums along with your western home furnishings like I did. My love for these one of a kind, American Indian drums started right after my husband and I purchased our new home last year. We knew that because of our love for the old west, we wanted true southwestern and Native American style home decor with unique rustic home furnishings. Once that was decided I started filling my new home with unique southwestern and country pieces that would go with my rustic decor and entertain my guests by telling a story at the same time. That is when I came across how easy it was to give my home that chic western style that you see in designer home magazines, by decorating with shaman drums.

Maybe you are like me when I first started learning about the history and meaning of Native American drums, and have only a vague idea of what the Shamans drum is. Or, maybe you are wondering how to purchase the best drum to play in your Shaman drum circle. Whatever the case, it is necessary to understand the significance this raw hide drum plays in Native American culture so you can develop a true appreciation for its art and let its power guide you in the right direction.

If you are lucky enough to be present at a Shamanic ceremony you will notice that the Shaman, or spiritual leader, will beat a unique looking raw hide hand drum with a soft drum stick to create the rhythmic monotonous beat used to take him to an altered mental state. During this altered state of mind, called the Shamanic journey, the spiritual leader receives healing and spiritual powers he uses to guide his people. If you look closely at the Shaman's drum you will notice that unlike many other leather Native American drums used for tribal ceremonies, these rustic drums have natural raw hide, stretched over a wooden frame on one side and are laced with raw hide string on the other side. They don't have the loop hold like many other Indian drums do. A drum fashioned in this way allows for a natural hand holding position so you can be in full contact with the drum and easily create the sound that is very important in bringing out the right tones needed to take you on your Shamanic journey.

You will also notice that many Shamans drums have painted designs on the rawhide drum face. These unique western paintings often depict a map of the universe or symbols of spiritual powers you can use to lead you in your meditating and journeying experience. If you are choosing the drum for Shamanic work, take time to study the symbolic meaning behind the painting. Since the southwest paintings have a spirit and power that directs the journey, you want to make sure it is in agreement with your own practices and influences you in that direction.

Also, I like to check the quality of the drum before buying. It's necessary to check that there are no thin places at the points where the cords of the drumhead are attached. This is vital to the quality and life of your Shaman drum and will ultimately save you money by not having to have it repaired or buy a new one.

Most attention is placed on the drum alone but it's also important to choose the appropriate striking mallet so you can enjoy the resonating sound of these native drums to its fullest. You will see that there are many variations of mallets that pull out different tones from the drum and although I personally like using a mallet with a fur covered head, it is a matter of what you like best. Whether you are looking for Native American musical instruments such as drums to add to your home decor or are using it to lead you in your spiritual journey, you will no doubt be mesmerized by the authentic southwestern style and western charm brought to your life and home by Shaman drums.