Great explanation of the benefits of Nia, from South Africa

Check out this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpLvde5T1EQ

sweet, uplifting video

It reminds of of the precious uniqueness of everyone's dance and voice. Sara Tavares "Balance."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C9mWN8vKHQ

Dancing the one point

The one point: the center of gravity, center of centers, the center between heaven and earth. The discipline of Aikido refers to it as the one point, in Tai Chi it is known as tan tien. Physically, it is about two inches below the naval in the center of the pelvis. We can build ki or vital energy (prana or chi) by breathing into the one point. When we move from this center of gravity, we move with greater power, grace, and stability. If someone were to test me (in a martial arts class), when I am NOT centered in my one point, I am easily thrown off balance. When I am present in my one-point, I can sustain the occasional blow without losing my center. This is true in the mental and emotional realms, as well. Centered in the one-point, I am present to this moment, when I am off in my mind, I can easily be distracted from my focus, or even fall prey to my own judgements or projections.

One of my favorite Nia foci, I aspire to stay connected to my one-point in all classes. When I feel present in my center of gravity, suspended between heaven and earth, I feel a greater sense of power and grace, and more connection to the beauty of the moment. I invite you to cultivate the practice of connecting to your one-point in all Nia classes and observe what happens to your dance.

Nia classes at the Senior Center: New session starts June 8th

If you are available for day-time Nia, please join us at the Senior Center on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:00am to noon. The next session starts on June 8th and runs until July 22, that's 14 classes (7 weeks) for $76.00 if you live in Corvallis, and $95.00 if you live out of town. The drop-in rate is $8.00/class. This is such a great deal, that even if you miss 2 weeks of classes, you still come out ahead by registering for the session - and registering for the session assures that the class will happen. Nia classes tend to be groups of positive people you love being around, and this one is no exception - we're a delightful bunch. Please come and dance with us and share the joy! This class is open to all ages.

Schedule Changes for May....

As many of you know, Austin and I will be heading off to Turkey and Greece soon. My last class at Timberhill will be Tuesday May 5th 7:00pm. (Regular schedule until then.) We will be returning in June, and Nia will start up again on Thursday June 4th. Please come and dance your behinds off until our last class before vacation.

My last class at the Senior Center will be Wednesday May 6th at 11:00 am. We will also be meeting on Monday May 3rd, so, if you want to get as much dancing in as possible, please come to those classes, as well. The new session at the Senior Center starts Monday June 8th. (See next posting.)

You can also attend Nia classes with Monica on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7pm at Springboard Studio, and on Saturday mornings from 9 to 10am at the Corvallis Karate School. Please call Monica for rates and information at 753-7966.

Another Dance Fest I can't resist...

The Sound of Music .... and then some: http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=81929771207&h=qnqLO&u=gnNjB&ref=nf

Nia promo video

Cool Nia promotional video from South Africa: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgfiwVaqNSs