Tom McKeown - Shamanic Drumming

Tom McKeown is an Oklahoma shamanic drummer who leads sweat lodge experiences. In this episode, he carefully describes the sweat lodge experience and the relationship between shamanic drumming and spiritual growth.

• Tom resonates with sweat lodges, firewalking, drumming, ayahuasca journeys, and psilocybin journeys.
• McKeown started using a drum as a tool for meditation and had a profound experience.
• The drum opened up another dimension where he became something beyond himself and accessed information.
• The drum is used to enter this other dimension and provide healing for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual purposes.
• After saying a prayer, Tom had a sweat lodge experience. It was a purification ceremony.
• The sweat lodge allows communication with the spirit of the universe and offers a spiritual experience.
• The sweat lodge has four rounds involving prayers, singing, healing intentions, and a pipe ceremony.
• The drumming experience is difficult to describe, but it involves the person being a vessel for a greater force while drumming.
• The drum takes them into a different dimension, and the sound and beat are always unpredictable and fascinating.
• Recent drumming experience: The narrator drummed for someone who had a Kundalini experience during the session. The energy moved through them, and their affect changed.
• Surrender and openness: Participants need to surrender to the energy and be open to the moment during the drumming and spiritual experiences.
• Creating a safe and sacred space: The narrator prepares themselves through meditation, ensures a comfortable and peaceful environment, and addresses any discomfort or anxiety participants may have.
• Grounding and breath work: Participants are encouraged to take off their shoes to become more present and show reverence for the sacred space. Deep breathing and meditation are also suggested to calm the mind and fully engage in the experience.
• No prerequisites: There are no specific requirements for participants other than coming with an open heart and mind. People usually self-select to participate in these experiences.
• Challenges for first-time participants: Drumming sessions can be startling and awaken intense emotions or experiences. Some individuals may find it difficult to confront certain aspects of themselves or may not be ready for the drumming experience.
• Debriefing and sharing experiences: In drum circles, participants are given the opportunity to talk about their experiences. If there are any uncertainties, others in the circle may provide intuitive responses. The narrator also recommends eating something, particularly chocolate, to ground oneself after the session.
• Balancing structure and spontaneity: The narrator trusts the universe and the spirits that come through during the drumming. They allow for spontaneity while remaining open to the processes guided by the spirits.
• Times when the drum doesn't work: There are instances when the drum indicates that it is not the right time to drum for someone. This can occur when there is fear involved or unresolved issues. In such cases, the narrator suggests addressing those issues before scheduling another session.
• Getting involved in drumming: YouTube is recommended for exploring shamanic drumming. Locally, individuals can search for drumming groups or contact the narrator for a drumming experience. Asking the universe and being open to the experience can also lead to finding opportunities.
• Cultural appropriation: The narrator believes that drumming is a gift from the creator and is open to anyone who wants to experience it. They acknowledge that drumming exists in various cultures and that, at some point, people will recognize that it is for all and transcends cultural boundaries.

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Do you want to be a guest on Mystical Lodge Radio or inquire about a personal reading? Write to Thomas at bthomas@mysticallodge.com. Thomas invites you to visit his website and read his book Escaping Boot Camp Earth, available at your favorite online bookseller.

Lisa Wetsel invites you to learn more about Akashic Records and how they can help you. Visit her website for appointments and more information.