tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83126802411469187872024-03-20T15:22:20.300+02:00Djembe Cape TownDavida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-20014435615745970272013-02-02T19:18:00.000+02:002013-02-02T19:18:59.114+02:00I must apologize for not blogging in a while. I have been going through life troubles and the blogging kind of became a background after thought or not even a thought. Drumming is still the best way to meditate and get rid of frustration for me.<br />
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I will get back into blogging again soon. Ala is on his way to west africa to get more drums so if you are wanting to order drums. I must also find his website and load it on here but for now if you have drum orders feel free to contact me.<br />
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in djembe<br />
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Davida xxDavida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-48567986471189520172013-02-02T19:14:00.002+02:002013-02-02T19:15:33.998+02:00Please visit this website for more information on drumming: <a href="http://www.djembecapetown.co.za/">http://www.djembecapetown.co.za</a><br />
<br />Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-79156632413600625162011-10-13T11:16:00.000+02:002011-10-13T11:16:11.026+02:00Chief Seattle's Reply<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/e9a70fz6420" width="420"></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-42996719856863498042011-09-01T09:21:00.001+02:002011-09-01T09:21:32.883+02:00spirit of the great heart<iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/g48_fqX7KJc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-63325399365603350852011-08-29T16:52:00.001+02:002011-08-29T16:54:24.766+02:00Spirituality behind the drum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yrU9eZOeYRqAOKDWEfic3ipgGnhCG41umiU02P8DYX6PLG6QlmMDBL6DFutJ8AW3NUGp1Kyjzr9B09qpzF_zG5aEIrTBYCHV62PVrAtl350q1dprCBuDGb0QHbyPH3c3UBwhyphenhyphen07khFRv/s1600/07082011623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yrU9eZOeYRqAOKDWEfic3ipgGnhCG41umiU02P8DYX6PLG6QlmMDBL6DFutJ8AW3NUGp1Kyjzr9B09qpzF_zG5aEIrTBYCHV62PVrAtl350q1dprCBuDGb0QHbyPH3c3UBwhyphenhyphen07khFRv/s320/07082011623.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This Sunday at our drumming circle there was an excellent turn out! More so, Ala taught us about each rhythm, its history and beliefs behind djembe drumming. I would really have to take a note pad and pen with me next time but I do insist that you come and join us! There is so much to learn about Djembe. See, when you drum, you start to become aware of things that would not even be a thought before. For example seeing how important nature is. Having respect for living creatures. Since I have started drumming I have noticed extreme changes in my own view points, good changes. I now see the uglyness of mass production in meat! I see water as a precious gift and how important it is to bless it and look after it. The world is crumbling down, the earth is in need of someone to stand up for it. We need to think of future generations. I don't want to preach, that's not my job but there is something that has changed within me for the better. I certainly was not who I am now a year ago. I guess we all continually change but Djembe has brought a great gift to me, eyes that see and understand that this earth is free for all. The water we drink should be free and not abused. There I go rambling again. I still have much to learn. <br />
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I do encourage you to try it, it is very relaxing. I am waiting on the spiritual aspect of drumming, their names etc. But Ala has difficulty emailing me as he comes from a very poor area without internet so he is unable to give me that info however I will do some research and upload it in time. There are specific rhythms that have meaning. Djembe was used 500 years ago as a method of communication but through history, as we delve into it, Djembe is more than just communicating. It is a method built on team work. Togetherness, Oneness, Love, Peace, Respect, Honour and so much more that it would take me days to research and being a working mom, I am juggling it but I promise within the next week or two to really bring more detail to what I have said. <br />
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Happy Drumming, You are important, remember that! Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-20048966849200106442011-08-29T16:32:00.002+02:002011-08-29T16:40:30.543+02:00Fun Walk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdX91zt5BPWCJIpt3VDiFfaNnc5Zkmnv26g45zABd5pZhyxq1Z7onhdhGj4ymn9URfakcJW1-oJYBdT_s43WrXaGsu3l6SQrT2ZLRdW3o9Fh80dmM4I1VLi3wZu_dsD5oFtKEqt1fJifsG/s1600/funwalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="158" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdX91zt5BPWCJIpt3VDiFfaNnc5Zkmnv26g45zABd5pZhyxq1Z7onhdhGj4ymn9URfakcJW1-oJYBdT_s43WrXaGsu3l6SQrT2ZLRdW3o9Fh80dmM4I1VLi3wZu_dsD5oFtKEqt1fJifsG/s320/funwalk.jpg" /></a></div><br />
There is a fun walk on the 3rd of September. It is a walk to raise funds for Pietermaritzburg Assist. They are a non profit organization aimed to educate Hiv mothers and they look after orphaned babies. The walk starts at 10am from Moyos at Eden on the Bay and we walk to dolphin beach. For more info click the link below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=223896330989901">CAPE TOWN FUN WALK EVENT</a><br />
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Lets come together and make a change! You also stand a chance to win a meal for two at <a href="http://www.goldrestaurant.co.za">Gold Restaurant</a> prize valued at R670.00! So come and have some fun and help make a difference!Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-19824049721669220912011-08-22T09:14:00.001+02:002011-08-29T16:28:47.883+02:0020 Steps to a Beautiful South Africa1. We unite<br />
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2. We cut out westernization - don't cut out the people, allow yourself to share!<br />
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3. We depend solely on the natural<br />
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4. We plant hemp and let nature do its thing<br />
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5. We regain truth and respect all living things<br />
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6. We come against the false,we object the world and it's indoctrination, we become tribal, following our gut at all times<br />
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7. We love and appreciate a simplistic life and love God and its creation<br />
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8. We honour all things especially each other<br />
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9. We protect the weak and the needy<br />
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10. We turn the rubbish called television off and we create music together<br />
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11. We fight the good fight of faith, never surrender<br />
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12. Cut all ties with external forces and make our nation stronger<br />
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13. We use only South African resources, businesses and farmers<br />
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14. We stop using oil and boycott such sources anything that kills the life called water!!!!<br />
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15. We clean with natural substances, we rebuke man made things<br />
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16. We respect the water and share it freely, we respect water! We bless it.<br />
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17. We work together in unity and stand together in unity<br />
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18. We do what we can do to help one another freely<br />
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19. We love creation and have respect for the lives we take prior to eating<br />
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20. Self sustainability<br />
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If you hear these things and follow these things, Africa will be the safest, most nurturing land for ALL. We are One!<br />
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By Davida Stephanie WestmanDavida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-9273710085719226472011-08-14T09:57:00.001+02:002011-08-14T09:57:28.269+02:00Misty in Roots<div style="padding: 3px; width: 400px; text-align: center;"><object width="400" height="334"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-3HbjbfI6jg?fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-3HbjbfI6jg?fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="334"></embed></object></div><a href="http://www.lyricsfreak.com">Lyrics</a> | <a href="http://www.lyricsfreak.com/m/misty+in+roots/">Misty In Roots lyrics</a> - <a href="http://www.lyricsfreak.com/m/misty+in+roots/poor+and+needy_20901119.html">Poor And Needy lyrics</a>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-48757905971153498332011-08-08T15:34:00.000+02:002011-08-08T15:34:26.319+02:00Songs make you feel better!<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,28,0" width="300" height="250"><param name="movie" value="http://8tracks.com/mixes/310/player_v3"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://8tracks.com/mixes/310/player_v3" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="300" height="250" allowscriptaccess="always" ></embed></object>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-37060279390338975142011-08-08T15:14:00.001+02:002011-08-08T15:37:50.310+02:00excellent quotes<div class="quote">To truly find God, truth needs to be found independently from the opinions of others. The truth has to be found in our hearts.</div><div class="quote2">--<i>A.H.Almaas</i></div><br />
If you hear a voice within you say “you cannot paint,” then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.<br />
<i>-Vincent Van Gogh</i><br />
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You must be the change you wish to see in the world.<br />
<i>-Mahatma Gandhi</i><br />
<div class="quote2"></div>Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.<br />
<i>-George Bernard Shaw</i><br />
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Tough times never last, but tough people do.<br />
<i>-Dr. Robert Schuller</i><br />
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We do not sing because we are happy, we are happy because we sing.<br />
<i>-William James</i><br />
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Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.<br />
<i>-Ralph Waldo Emerson</i><br />
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<i> </i>When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece.<br />
<i>-John Ruskin</i><br />
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There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.<br />
<i>-Albert Einstein</i>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-45229085537526749072011-08-04T13:28:00.000+02:002011-08-04T13:28:44.878+02:00WATCHDEELEARN: Desiderata<a href="http://watchdeelearn.blogspot.com/2011/08/desiderata.html?spref=bl">WATCHDEELEARN: Desiderata</a>: "G o placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on goo..."Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-35470695999875142842011-08-04T12:39:00.000+02:002011-08-04T12:39:16.543+02:00WATCHDEELEARN: What your child needs to hear from you.<a href="http://watchdeelearn.blogspot.com/2011/08/what-your-child-needs-to-hear-from-you.html?spref=bl">WATCHDEELEARN: What your child needs to hear from you.</a>: "The other day my son said something magnificent: Quotes from Travis Westman (my 9yr old son) 'Mom, look here, I am the first person to jum..."Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-40779998944173454352011-08-03T16:54:00.003+02:002011-08-03T16:55:06.658+02:00just like the book I'm writing, inspiring!<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TM91LxKGWzA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-84290241351917385552011-07-18T15:16:00.001+02:002011-07-18T15:16:44.212+02:00Redemption SongOne of my favourite songs! <br />
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<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jrcA6j-GRE8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-2607716891401147142011-07-18T12:12:00.001+02:002011-07-18T12:12:22.065+02:00Team Spirit<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gJYsYT_jptY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-13776760152048379672011-07-18T11:32:00.004+02:002011-07-18T11:37:46.367+02:00Drumming on Sunday with Team Spirit and Ala :)<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0zi19lzSlU0?hl=en&fs=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-11421337359673278432011-07-18T10:03:00.001+02:002011-07-18T10:10:26.825+02:00invigorated!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibl_cJhw8iJXIizy1L6Gl2ODZIB_zDta4IqJzpnQyAzKZuWdWJ-PPkw7a_h0vcVVk2XmYJxiMHfyJnnmzPHgdF9g4vNM1uWitEaryjOntrfHUAId4kPlwfpxWSAUc0WvdMn-kqSSWIH-Jt/s1600/17072011605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibl_cJhw8iJXIizy1L6Gl2ODZIB_zDta4IqJzpnQyAzKZuWdWJ-PPkw7a_h0vcVVk2XmYJxiMHfyJnnmzPHgdF9g4vNM1uWitEaryjOntrfHUAId4kPlwfpxWSAUc0WvdMn-kqSSWIH-Jt/s320/17072011605.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">On Sunday I was very chuffed to have my son babysat and finally we went drumming again. Ala and Team Spirit band were there. The new venue took my breath away. It does need a woman's touch but I was very pleased that life handed something beautiful to Ala and Team Spirit. I always say it was the best drumming ever but this time, it really was the best. I get emotional just thinking about it. </span><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The new venue 88 Shortmarket street is actually the Platinum lounge. There are lounges and comfy couches. There is a bar area, toilets, cozy setting and really great atmosphere! I loved every little second and have so much gratitude for it. Team Spirit sang and danced. They are fantastic for wedding functions and I would love to see them on stage! Seriously great musicians with heart! I feel lucky and honoured to be in their presence. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPccLW2hxSUchhssu209AG2xyFrQafkoR6JVF9p5nxNurAqHBIrYTZ8Og_s2YkH9b3V81Jlt2jomalljOTna834YM3KpL5SD6EGnl7sJ7K3YzB9DzqSq5DcdwOyrw8JMOLzn7iccfPVK0z/s1600/17072011602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I highly recommend that you join us on Sundays. It prepares you for the week ahead! You'll love it!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I must get a better camera, apologies for the poor photography! </div>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-77357910122942877632011-07-13T15:49:00.000+02:002011-07-13T15:49:00.973+02:00Facebook PageVisit Ala's facebook Page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hadinkae-drumming-group-Drum-with-Ala/169459339781798">click here</a><br />
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Yours in Djembe<br />
Davida - aka Dee :)Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-33596566003311761212011-07-07T13:02:00.003+02:002011-07-18T11:15:55.932+02:00A very smart kid!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nndEZBQ9bds" width="500"></iframe>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-35884869965760352622011-07-06T18:48:00.001+02:002011-07-18T11:03:33.154+02:00Sunday BlissEvery Sunday between 2 and 5 pm, come join us at 88 shortmarket street Cape Town ! All Welcome!Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-1137679239504542522011-07-05T11:16:00.002+02:002011-07-05T11:49:18.823+02:00a form of meditationDjembe is a definite method to meditation. Your Chi, your energy, djembe allows you to connect to what is around you. Growing up, I had many issues. I have really become aware of my inner self since drumming. Self acceptance, finding beauty in everyone, this is just a part of it.<br />
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There are three main areas of drumming that you need to know and anyone can drum, even if you think you don't have rhythm, trust me, that rhythm is inside of you!<br />
- the Tone, the Base and the Slap are the three main instances of drumming. Base in the middle of the drum with your right hand if you are right handed. Tone and slap on the edge of the drum.<br />
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Tone is high pitched. The base is a deep sound. The slap is the most difficult, I haven't got it yet! It is a short sharp and very loud tone. You hit the edge of the drum hard. This is going to take some time and you will not learn this over night but you can try and practice.<br />
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The beauty of these three tones is that you can mix them up to make a great rhythm. Many different sounds come from three tones.<br />
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For example: Djembe rhythm is 1 base - 4 tone - 1 base - 5 tone repeatedly. <br />
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When repeating same stroke/sequence, you eventually start working both parts of your brain and this regular exercise is a great way to meditate. You will not notice it but your brain will be in alpha state. Alpha state as I have said before is when your whole self is completely relaxed. I know I need relaxation. <br />
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There are many helpful websites and videos on utube that you can watch in order to learn the basic rhythms. Develop a relationship with your drum. Play it regularly to know where the best tone, base and slap is on your drum. Have it tuned every now and then. Most importantly Enjoy it, smile. It's not serious, it's beautiful!<br />
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Enjoy<br />
x<br />
DavidaDavida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-91901542545569570932011-06-29T10:44:00.003+02:002011-06-29T12:30:31.601+02:00Drum and Fire Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeEsBEAe8LAYhD7RrorzNHMzhWKLTaN65hT8Ht_wQtX8BGEEVrDbVUkv-S_D41jtautDSLiH7QVlDBucKn8JO8wFOnw2FPFOMJYIPyzoG6LGsCI9G9wzBJwd7yMHHHzg3GMsXE2nDmOUA1/s1600/drum+fest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeEsBEAe8LAYhD7RrorzNHMzhWKLTaN65hT8Ht_wQtX8BGEEVrDbVUkv-S_D41jtautDSLiH7QVlDBucKn8JO8wFOnw2FPFOMJYIPyzoG6LGsCI9G9wzBJwd7yMHHHzg3GMsXE2nDmOUA1/s1600/drum+fest.jpg" /></a></div><div class="mts uiAttachmentDesc" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><div><div class="fsm fwn fcg"><b>Location: <span class="uiAttachmentDetails" data-ft="{"type":12}">Coffee Bay, Transkei</span></b></div><div class="fsm fwn fcg"><b>Time: <span class="uiAttachmentDetails" data-ft="{"type":12}">4:00PM Friday, July 29th</span></b></div><div class="fsm fwn fcg"></div><div class="fsm fwn fcg"><span class="uiAttachmentDetails" data-ft="{"type":12}">find the event on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=133387453402652">Facebook </a></span></div><div class="fsm fwn fcg"></div><div class="fsm fwn fcg"><span class="uiAttachmentDetails" data-ft="{"type":12}">I am going, I don't know how but I am not going to miss this event!</span><br />
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<div id="fb-root"></div><script src="http://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#appId=177586288967255&xfbml=1"></script><fb:like href="www.djembecapetown.blogspot.com" send="true" width="450" show_faces="true" font="arial"></fb:like>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-41914561430233958942011-06-29T09:42:00.003+02:002011-06-29T12:32:36.298+02:00Cloudy Vision<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAMAEjULVatvpiz7amX07t7soobROxo98S9Frx5K1txoZm2oddWk13MWe3YP4muh1S2moz-IdXjj5cR-VMBJPUpulLIRK-LezV8WMEpRdxBHfKoRwXOfUbIaRFYot7RW6yYIsRpNdidcM/s1600/high-speed-vision-landscape-1-screensaver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAMAEjULVatvpiz7amX07t7soobROxo98S9Frx5K1txoZm2oddWk13MWe3YP4muh1S2moz-IdXjj5cR-VMBJPUpulLIRK-LezV8WMEpRdxBHfKoRwXOfUbIaRFYot7RW6yYIsRpNdidcM/s320/high-speed-vision-landscape-1-screensaver.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Yesterday I had an appointment in town. I wear contact lenses and half way through driving I noticed that my vision was very blurry. I could hardly see. I thought to myself, "did I suddenly go blind?" Then I came to the conclusion that my contacts lenses must be in incorrectly. I had a three hour appointment and went through the entire appointment with very little eye sight. I managed to drive home safely and as soon as I got home I took the contact lenses off and put my glasses on. I could see! I was not going blind BUT silly me realised that I had put my husband's contact lenses on instead of mine. A real brunette's blonde moment!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I suddenly had a little thought to myself which made a lot of sense. When you have someone else's vision for your life, your vision will be cloudy. If you see life through the lens of someone else, you will be miserable and unable to see your life clearly. When you see life through your own lens, your own vision, every step you take is one step greater to being on the road you should be on. The opinions of people can withdraw you from being you. The ideas and visions for your life should really be your own and you should not care what anyone thinks. Some of the greatest results driven people are the ones who see life through their own eyes, their own heart and their own mind!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have many ideas that people will disagree with. My own family won't agree with my dreams. You might be thought of as crazy but is that so bad? I would rather live the life that is mine than live up to the expectations of mankind. What a sad life it is to have cloudy vision and to live up to the expectations of people, family and friends. Let me tell you, it is difficult to see with someone else's contact lens. My eyes were sore afterwards and I had a little head ache. The thing is, to live with someone else's plan for your life will have far worse side effects. Sadness, depression and lack of purpose will be the general feeling to walk in the shoes of someone else. </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I hope that this article has made some sense. When you have clear vision, you can see where you are going. The pieces to the puzzle come together because you can see clearly. Don't allow people to cloud your vision, your hopes or your dreams!</div><br />
<div id="fb-root"></div><script src="http://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#appId=177586288967255&xfbml=1"></script><fb:like href="www.djembecapetown.blogspot.com" send="true" width="450" show_faces="true" font="arial"></fb:like>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-9678887556302944432011-06-26T09:36:00.006+02:002011-06-29T12:33:37.516+02:00A Deeper Meaning<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I went drumming yesterday and half way through the drumming for the very first time, I walked out quite upset. I wasn't upset because of the drumming, I was upset about this blog. I haven't fully focused on Djembe and how it is to me personally. I don't represent Ala, I try to market him freely because I believe in is teaching capabilities and I believe in Djembe. The thing is, I haven't let you know what Djembe has done for me. I don't like spiritual things but a lot of these things have been happening to me, I believe it is because I have become more aware of my surroundings thanks to being in Alpha State.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Time to really dig deep don't you think!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm not all knowledgeable, I don't know anyone in the group so when I speak now, I don't really speak on behalf of anyone except myself. Maybe they will agree with me, maybe they won't but this is Me, not them. This blog is my blog and it's about me and djembe. It's a personal thing for me! I have to stress that I am not Ala's manager or his sales person, just in case any of you think that.</span> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I want you to experience his drum circle because it's benefited me and my life so much! So let's begin...</span><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxkMoEaA4qbLzx5ExXnEpYmafTXSdGParNOxvitPj_M1AehzV-TnyU8u9Wjq3oN1ct93lHG-hkrZzu1185hx-4NonCSoVuDjTRQ74He5pZOcSUWuXrQHVi7ctMqVoNb4iQabG9IHNtL1h/s1600/eyeinthesky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxkMoEaA4qbLzx5ExXnEpYmafTXSdGParNOxvitPj_M1AehzV-TnyU8u9Wjq3oN1ct93lHG-hkrZzu1185hx-4NonCSoVuDjTRQ74He5pZOcSUWuXrQHVi7ctMqVoNb4iQabG9IHNtL1h/s320/eyeinthesky.jpg" width="242" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Djembe master in my point of view is getting back into your natural flow of rhythm. Today we have cell phones and those invisible waves that screw up our natural rhythm. Today we have microwaves, that also screws up our natural rhythm. Technology has made us stressed, wired, tired and emotional. We need to get back to our roots and who we are as people because all in all, I know I have lost myself in work, priorities and chores. I know I need to reestablish who I am as a person and allow myself the freedom to be me. I need the freedom to relax and love people.</span> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What Djembe does is it brings you back to your rhythm and makes you more aware of what is around you. You become a master of your own life. The spirit allows you to heal. Each beat is a beat from the heart and in that is a healing unexplainable!</span><br />
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<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am deaf in my right ear. I never accepted myself as a person. I never truly embraced who I was until recently. I never embraced my full name which is Davida. For years I have called myself Dee but now I know the importance of the name I have been given and I am aware of my place in this world. I don't know if all the credit goes to djembe but I have never seen so much improvement in myself as a person. I still have lot to learn but there is definitely something about djembe that has helped me. </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhP7tTHdwEFdU9cBmVjyXN5nYpsn3xNIixplkVga1UHvmHfDEtwe3DhaRs00sZa-XcwQd9kN-Pk21zKJ-EusOakCRKi68loU3E2iyhjfVMJ0pMdLsv7PWnIikDk5rfcekh68Gfpjux9BW/s1600/self-awareness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhP7tTHdwEFdU9cBmVjyXN5nYpsn3xNIixplkVga1UHvmHfDEtwe3DhaRs00sZa-XcwQd9kN-Pk21zKJ-EusOakCRKi68loU3E2iyhjfVMJ0pMdLsv7PWnIikDk5rfcekh68Gfpjux9BW/s1600/self-awareness.jpg" /></a></div>First of all I realize that I run away easily from problems, issues, hurts, pain, anger but these days I embrace every single issue in my life and I know there is nothing that is random. Since djembe, I have been called many weird things, some have said I'm psychic (no I'm not, I follow my gut, my inner voice always). I have also had many weird encounters where a stranger came up to me and asked, "what is wealth?" and i replied, "you are already wealthy" and he walked off smiling leaving me really puzzled. Yet a week later, I experienced major burn out because I am in the corporate world and I was working so hard for money when all the wealth was right in front of me! Money is not wealth! It's something I have to continually remember. So for me, Djembe has become somewhat of a spiritual journey, a journey of self discovery, learning where I am weak, embracing who I am, as I am and learning to love unconditionally! We are all masters of our own lives. We should all respect eachothers cultures, beliefs and emotions. We are one. One drummer and to me, that is what it is about. The sooner we make other people the primary focus of our lives, everything falls into place. As soon as we shut out the outer noise and make our own noise, life begins! Don't listen to outer voices, make your rhythm known and believe in who you are as a person. I don't worship my drum but I do worship my maker and in that, I worship how He sees people and life. I don't see the world through my eyes but I am open to the plans that this universe has for me. I know without a doubt in my heart that me falling in love with djembe drumming was not a random accident, it is my instrument. My love for music isn't random, it is my soul that yearns for it and I know that in music is life!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Deep hey.. lol.. I don't like to even talk about my feelings but it is my truth. Vulnerability is inevitable when you are truthful and it's okay! I still have much to learn but I am absorbing life and embracing everything that is in it! We are all djembefolas, if we allow it! Now I know, I am the voice that can make a change in this world! It is my responsibility to be the change! Now wonder my rhythm has improved so much! I am aware :)<br />
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I decreased some of my work load again so rededicate myself to my family and friends. I trust! That is something that I have never been able to really do, thanks to meditation through rhythm I can really see the issues holding me back from real life. I won't be remembered for my corporate life but I will be remembered for my love! I'd rather love than store riches! I am thankful and grateful for everything in my life right now! I don't care what people think, I find that awesome! Bring on the rhythm! </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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<div id="fb-root"></div><script src="http://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#appId=177586288967255&xfbml=1"></script><fb:like href="www.djembecapetown.blogspot.com" send="true" width="450" show_faces="true" font="arial"></fb:like>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312680241146918787.post-47892430769434056632011-06-23T17:39:00.000+02:002011-06-23T17:39:12.787+02:00no drumming in a looong time<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It has been a while since I drummed, 4 whole weeks. I really miss it and can feel the impact of not drumming. However in the break from it where I my stress levels built up to an extreme level, I had to re look and re-evaluate some of my life and simplify things. So in the end, it was almost as if i needed to break free from some issues in my life.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Life is about balance and if you are out of balance it will show!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am really hoping that it doesn't rain this Saturday! Last week I missed drumming because my car boot broke. We had driven all the way to town and as we got to town my boot broke. To think how much I have actually learned in terms of rhythm. My husband who has two left feet all of a sudden has rhythm. The health benefits are amazing. Just googling the benefits of drumming has me amazed. I can see why my emotions have built up so much without the drumming. I will go drumming this Saturday, let there be sunshine on that day!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwnVq5F5mtR9XP_0RhjweRYUtq1PcfWdq8LK2E0SqkiMyjGXRxJiJURTwWjxtAfI1o9bMnQa1FBEdy5IIlPAy72eKv8_JZzORVKO3LOsQ-utVDWRMl5JWUlYbVsUn40y4KRf7WvsrVavGn/s1600/19032011382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwnVq5F5mtR9XP_0RhjweRYUtq1PcfWdq8LK2E0SqkiMyjGXRxJiJURTwWjxtAfI1o9bMnQa1FBEdy5IIlPAy72eKv8_JZzORVKO3LOsQ-utVDWRMl5JWUlYbVsUn40y4KRf7WvsrVavGn/s320/19032011382.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you have any questions about drumming, then please feel free to ask or email. Ala has a facebook page and he is on facebook. Look for Abdul Ala and you will find him. </span>Davida Athena Westmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12975360458951146750noreply@blogger.com0