If I could have as many people as possible experience my Nia class, I would! The joy of our movement is a miraculous power and I love having people step into their own. It’s a visceral thing, making it a challenge to describe. And being visceral, the experience is totally personal, so I cannot know how it will show up for each person, just that it will when they enter with willingness.
As a fitness practice, Nia delivers. Having taught 3-5 times a week for many years, I benefitted on a physical level (keeping healthy, slim, youthful), on an emotional level (releasing or expressing my emotions), on a mental level (boy, did it unearth my creativity), and spiritually (giving me a weekly practice where I can show up as I am and simply open to the power of grace).
I have witnessed people attend one of the larger events I used to help organize and lead – where 60 people or more would show up – and even though they were new, they did not feel the self-consciousness that many dance classes create. Instead they felt the energy of their own presence, movement, strength, beauty, and much more.
I’ve taught Nia to women, men, young to old, in community/dance/fitness centres, and at corporate wellness events, and at various public events. I was slightly uncomfortable the first time I taught outdoors in a wide open public area (outside in Yaletown to be exact). I wondered how Nia’s power could be understood or felt if it was done in a way that I viewed as a form of entertainment rather than as a class. Of course, I needn’t have worried. I had people tell me how moved they were watching, while others couldn’t help but join in once the music began.
We human beings are made to move our bodies. Too many activities today create sedentary lives or ones lived on automatic. Nia helps you be here now and experience the wonder of that simple yet exhilarating feeling.
Free Class for New Students, Sun, Apr 7, 11-12:15, Scotiabank Dance Centre. Spring term begins the following week. 10 and 20 class passes will be available for purchase as will Nia CDs.
