Spiritual Drum Circle with a Local Priest

Overview

First, participants will be introduced to herbs that local Virgin Islanders use to cleanse their bodies and auras. The majority, if not all of the herbs, will be picked from the yard where the drum circle will occur. After learning about some of the herbs, participants will have an opportunity to cleanse their aura with a spiritual bath, what we locals call a "bush bath", with a bath made by the session leader using some of the same herbs. This part of the activity is optional, and consists of taking a small amount of the herbal mixture in the hand and sprinkling it about the body. After the introduction to the herbs and bush bath, participants will sit in a circle and choose from a variety of different percussive instruments. Participants will learn and create a traditional African-inspired rhythm and learn a local calypso (kariso) song about a major event in Virgin Islands history. If inclined, participants can dance! This experience teaches history, culture, and the arts.