Didgeridoo Therapy

The didgeridoo is an instrument that dates back over 40,000 years and was developed by indigenous Australians of northern Australia. It was typically played only by aboriginal men during ceremonial gatherings and celebrations and is an important part of the indigenous Australian culture. The instrument is known for its beautiful and richly harmonic sound and the mastery of “circular breathing” that is needed to play the instrument properly.

While the didgeridoo’s sound may seem unusual to many, the didgeridoo has documented health benefits. According to a study published in The British Medical Journal in 2005, playing didgeridoo helped reduce snoring as well as daytime sleepiness and could improve sleep apnea. People who have experienced didgeridoo therapy have reported that they sleep more soundly and have a stronger feeling of wellness in their daily lives.

Gregg Chapman, an Australian-born didgeridoo musician, has taken the instrument to a different level. He has combined his knowledge of alternative healing practices, such as Reiki, and his own experience playing the didgeridoo to help to heal others through the tones and vibrations of his instrument. Chapman says, "It can help muscle, joint and skeletal aches and pains, help people who suffer from stress, anxiety or sleep disorders and help to focus your mind.” The benefits of didgeridoo therapy are many; helping with relaxation, general malaise, muscle and joint pain and sleep issues.

Didgeridoo therapy is relatively unknown except in the alternative healing circles, and even those who specialize in alternative therapies such as acupuncture or cranio-sacral therapy are just now hearing about its benefits. If you are feeling adventurous and want to try something new to help you sleep and feel better, find a local didgeridoo player in your area and see what happens next.