What is Nia? | Typical class format

Typical class format

If you're new to Nia, the most important thing to remember is that there's nothing to remember!  Just relax and have fun. Nia creates a welcoming, non-competitive environment. No prior experience or knowledge is necessary.

I'm here to facilitate your dance. I'll invite you to listen to your body: adjusting movements to seek personal comfort and JOY. Looking around, you'll see that Nia students are of all ages, shapes and sizes. Men and women: the graceful, the stiff, the self-styled "uncoordinated". Nia honors your uniqueness.

Wear loose, easy-fitting clothing, bring drinking water (we do work up a sweat) and, unless contra-indicated, take off your socks and shoes. Each foot has 7000 nerve endings - we'll be using the sensory information they provide to move with pleasure and ease.

A typical class lasts an hour and progresses through 7 cycles. Music is an essential part of the experience.

To start, I'll bring the group together and set the focus and intent. Then, we'll consciously step into the space and warm-up. Next, we'll really get going, elevating the heart-rate. The cool-down follows, before we progress to movement on the floor. To end, I lead the class in a simple act of closure, such as 3 breaths, before we step out - energized, relaxed, whole.

Each class combines structured choreography with free-form movement and play. Elements of dance (eg. jazz & modern), martial arts (eg. t'ai chi & tae kwon do) and healing arts (eg. Feldenkrais & yoga) are integrated to create a varied dynamic, as well as balance in body-mind-spirit.

Besides guiding the class with cues for steps and changes, I'll use visual imagery and language to connect you to your body sensation and personal expression. I'll demonstrate Levels 1, 2 & 3, inviting you to choose the range of motion you want, whether it's conserving energy, focusing on detail, or going all out.

The entire experience is fun and yummy. You'll get an excellent workout without once having thought about "working" at it. Your body is energized, your mind relaxed, your emotions released, and your spirit lifted. Simply put, in a Nia class music + movement = magic!

Now aren't you just dying to try a class? Go to the Where & When page to check my schedule.