Tricks of the Trade.
These wonderful tips for Nia class come from Nia Black Belt teacher and trainer, Danielle Eastman. She teaches Nia in Pullman, WA. Danielle’s Nia website offers tons of photos, videos and vivid descriptions of the Nia experience. ENJOY!
Relaaaaaax. Exhale. There is no wrong way to do Nia! First learn the basics of the move, then when youre ready, add more details. Enjoy the opportunity to be a beginner… to learn… to explore. Capture the rhythm with your feet, then slowly add your groovy core and arms.
Make the sole to soul connection. Nia is traditionally practiced with bare feet. This way you can experience the 7000 nerve endings in each of your feet, there to help you move in safe and efficient ways from the ground up. If you experiece any discomfort, that is a sign to pay very close attention to how you are stepping. Let your feet gently touch the earth with every move.
Explore levels of intensity. Movements can be danced at any intensity level, allowing you to honor how your body is feeling on any given day. You are invited to play with a variety of levels. For Level 1, keep the movements detailed and close to your core. For Level 3, dance your largest range of motion, seeking your edge.
Keep your curiosity up and your criticism down. Nia can sometimes be challenging; Its meant to teach you about you, physically and emotionally. Be gentle and patient with yourself. Instead of judging, comparing, liking, disliking, succeeding, failing, blah blah blah… just play, explore, and go on an adventure! See what Nia can teach you today!
Breathe and make noise. Use your voice to blend your body motions with your breath. Inhale the moment and exhale with sound to condition and engage your core. Yawn, sigh, shout, and giggle your way to a stronger, more confident, and more freely expressive self!
Make the movements an expression of you. This is your dance. Let your own unique rhythm and body language come out. Be jazzy, luscious, intense, lyrical, snappy, focused, powerful, playful… Most importantly, be yourself. You have nothing to lose but your inhibitions!
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