Rebecca Rylands is the founder of Heartfelt Drumming, a business dedicated to supporting mental health and wellbeing through the power of rhythm. Specialising in therapeutic drumming circles, Rebecca delivers group programs designed to build resilience, foster connection, and promote emotional regulation. With experience in counselling and music, she works with perinatal mothers, children and can add drumming any to wellness retreats or corporate events. Rebecca’s mission is to empower people to heal, grow, and thrive through community, creativity, and the beat of the drum.
When did you start your business?
2020
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
I first started by offering online counselling during the COVID pandemic and found that after people were able to connect in person again there was surge in the demand of face-to-face services and group offerings. We are social mammals and I think there is something powerful about meeting in groups with a trained facilitator, especially in helping to manage difficult topics with an awareness that many people have experienced trauma and mental health issues. These can be some of the reasons that make hard to form meaningful connections. If you are beyond the baby stages of parenting yourself, it can be easy to forget that just getting out the door is an achievement. I remember that if I had a goal of somewhere to go, somewhere that offers social support and you return home feeling better than when you left is something that keeps my inspired to continue doing this work.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I am excited to be at the forefront of innovations in music and social and emotional wellbeing. There is growing evidence from neuroscience and brain imaging that shows us what happens when people are involved in participatory music experiences. Your whole brain lights up with activity! I have been involved in music for a long time, as a performer, a teacher and a facilitator and I think community music is something that has so much value, You do not have to be good at drumming to get the benefits from drumming. So, in some I ways I think of it as similar to the sport and fitness industry. A few people get to the top levels, and just because you may not be aiming for that, doesn’t mean you should stop playing completely. There is so much joy and physical, cognitive and therapeutic benefit from playing music and drums are the most accessible and inclusive instruments I have cone across.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
I have some many ideas, sometimes I have to remind myself to focus on just the one thing, or a couple of things, and nail them to feel in that area before moving on.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
If you have something you are passionate about and you see a need in the world, start writing your ideas down and turning them into tangible goals. When you look back and start to see that you are able to cross off some of things that once upon a time you only dreamt about, it gives you the confidence to continue to dream. A common barrier is negative self-talk that stops a lot of us giving new things a go. Also, a mentor or coach can help you to work out your next steps.
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
I entered the AusMumpreneur Awards to be part of this annual celebration of women in business. I wanted to meet other like-minded people and learn from the guest speakers’ presentations. It has been wonderful to get to know women across the country from different sector as a result.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
I enjoyed seeing women on the stage accepting their awards. It was such a vibe! I got to hear about the highlights and also the challenges that were common across so many different industries. I also enjoyed the opportunity to get dressed up and have my hair and makeup done. The last time I had professional hair and makeup done was over 10 years ago at my wedding.
What surprised you most about the awards?
I came away feeling as though I had connected with a whole new group of friends and it inspired me to keep innovating and working towards my dreams.
How did the awards help you in your business?
Getting a Bronze award in the Wellness Category was so affirming. The series of webinars leading up to the applications was an excellent support and also helped me meet some of the other finalists online prior to attending the awards. I have had so many people reach out to me to congratulate me and it has helped to build my visibility and brand awareness.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
If you are thinking about entering, join all of the online groups available to see if it’s for you. I have been watching from the sidelines for a number of years and finally felt ready this year to enter. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else, everyone is at different stages on their business journey who enters the awards.
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
Starting my business has given me an opportunity to create something unique and I can be somewhat flexible with my hours. It gives me an outlet for self-expression and helps me clarify my values, both personally and in business.
What’s happening next in your business?
I am going to be leading drum circles at my son’s childcare centre, weekly in Term 4. This went from casual conversations with educators about what I do to securing a weekly contract.
What are your big plans for the future?
I have training to deliver for Rhythm2Recovery in Auckland (NZ), Thursday Island, and Cairns coming up before the end of the year.