Activity: Ocean Drum
Tragic Events
Thank you, Aitor E. Lujan and Kelly Petersohn, from Camp Erin Online for sharing this activity!
Objective: An ocean drum is a percussion instrument that creates a soothing, ocean-like sound. Ocean drums can be used to practice rhythmic, mindful breathing incorporating the sounds to guide and deepen each breath. A special memory of or message to the person being remembered can be used to decorate the drum; creating a meaningful connection to the person who died.
Supplies:
- Thick, white paper plate
- Clear, plastic plate
- Bag of colorful pony beads
- Tape (colorful)
- Box of markers
Instructions:
- Use the markers to decorate the top and bottom of the white plate in a way that is meaningful to you.
- Consider adding any of the following:
- Favorite colors of the person you are remembering.
- A memory that you share with the person who died
- A poem or song lyric that helps you to feel connected.
- Place the beads on the thick, white paper plate. Cover the paper plate with the clear, plastic plate.
- Have a grown up or friend help you hold the plates together while using the tape to secure both plates together. Tip: It is helpful to use small, 2-inch sections of tape, rather than one long piece.
Mindful Breathing: Use the ocean drum to focus your breathing. Try holding the drum in your hands and tilting or swirling it to one side slowly, breathing in. With each breath, try to make the beads move even slower.
