Yellowknife (Feb 23/05) - The ancient, rhythmic sounds of the aboriginal drum is a positive healing force, say two Yellowknife women who participate in a drum circle.

"Drumming is universal, that's what is beautiful about it," Rita Chretien says. "But for us, it's not just about music, it's about healing."

Rita Chretien and Ruth McCullough perform during the drum circle being offered in Yellowknife. The first one was Sunday and it will be held every second Sunday until April 17.

Many traditions and practices of First Nations people have powerful healing properties to them, she explains.

"Elders have told me that the people who listen when we go out and sing with our drum have an opportunity to heal just by being part of it," Chretien says.

"Drumming can awaken something in you that is very spiritual and precious and important. And it helps you express it," Chretien says.

She recalls the first time she ever participated in a pow-wow.

"It was an emotional, powerful experience for me."

Another drummer, Ruth McCullough, also says the drum is a powerful force.

"We believe it is the creator's heart," she says of the rhythmic tone.

By offering a drum circle for women, Chretien says she hopes to bring together all women who want to learn as they go and who have a genuine interest in the activity.

The drums themselves are made of various dried skins, such as deer or caribou.

Also, the drums vary in size and style, resulting in different tones when playing.

McCullough says there is a certain time of the year when wood is collected to make a drum, ensuring its durability.

As well, women drum differently than men. "The themes in our songs are women's issues or things important to women," she says.

McCullough, who made her own drum a year ago, says it is very special to her, as the image of a turtle, her own spirit animal, is visibly outlined in the skin of the drum.

"It's very special to me."

The circle will also be held March 6, 20, April 3 and 17.