Terri Bergstrom of the Austin Drumming Circle said the practice of drumming can be spiritual, provide healing — and, it can provide a common link to a community of like-minded people.

“We all know what it means to be a community,” she told a group of about 25 who came to see what a drumming circle was all about on Tuesday at the Hormel Historic Home, part of its Hearth and Home series.

Those who attended became a group of musicians, some decidedly, while others a bit more tentatively.

Some picked up bongo drums to beat; others chose maracas. Bells were ready to be rung and panderetas — what look like drum tops — were among the favorite choices.

Together, a rhythmic journey of follow-the-leader began.

For about five minutes, the group followed the drumming of the leaders. Expressions ranged from content to thoughtful.

“It seemed like you could feel your heart,” said Lana Epley of Austin.

“I thought it was calming,” said Marlene Frankson, also of Austin.

Some studies call drumming a way to reduce stress and build your immune system. Some call it “the drumbeat of Mother Earth.”

Still others say that drumming has a strong spiritual component.

Pastor Shari Mason, of Austin Congregational UCC, lists the drumming circle under her “Prayer Programs” of the church.

She said, “Part of my passion is anything that helps us connect to the sacred. It is sometimes called ‘ beating on the Eardrum of God,’ — to most, a very sacred practice. It’s also a way of getting out of your head and into your body.”

The group also performed several “sandwich” drummings, which had one person in the middle, and two drummers drumming outside of the first person.

According to Darlene Thiessen of Austin, the drumming “goes right into your soul. I also feel a strong healing power.”

The Austin Drumming Circle meets from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Austin Congregational UCC.