Nia in focus

IN FOCUS FOR  FEBRUARY…

THE NIA TECHNIQUE – LOOK CLOSELY, THERE’S MORE TO IT... by Kathy WolstenholME

Nia is powerful in transforming lives.  The physical awareness it develops is profound.  Its sense of internal composure and relaxation along with its stimulation of energy (fun!) also make it an irresistible way to exercise and stay healthy.   We really could leave it at that and the rewards of doing Nia would be enough.

But for me there has always been more.  I also believe that Nia develops intuitive trust and skill, providing an extra navigational tool for guiding life.  As Bob Marley said,  “he who feels it knows it more”.  Juice!, my work, is about how the body teaches the mind and emotions about good energy and how we can “think through the body to move the mind”.

Sinking into my body’s one point Center and aligning my heart and head in one steady stream of energy is stabilizing, both literally and metaphorically.  The gift of “knowing” how to concentrate force translates to honing my thoughts and holding presence whether I’m speaking at a dinner party, a class or before a large audience.

I’ve noticed how good movement principles apply to life situations.   My body has taught me to sense positive tension – the “Yes” inside.  I understand that when I’m feeling negative that somewhere along the line I lost my balance.  And then I do whatever it takes to restore the positive in positive tension.   Changing perspective often helps both my body and my mind “right itself.”

My body has helped me sense the dynamic of a good relationship, where both sides pull their weight.  Through movement I’ve embodied the obvious – that when one side is slack or overbearing, “the whole apple cart is upset”. I energetically have a feel for that balance now.   My body has shown me that I can take anything as long as I don’t get stuck in it or lie down.  The “bounce back” is a characteristic I have to hold on to for my whole life. Keeping “resilience” coded in both my physical and life muscle supports health. And though I’m still a work in progress, small things about Nia have awakened a deeper knowing than the mental “I should” of expectations.

For instance, I notice that when I’m grounded, in other words when my mind consults with my “matter” through awareness of sensation, I eat the right amounts for me – no more, no less.  I’m learning when its time to exercise more (or less) freedom in expressing myself.  And I’m vigilant to leave a small window open all the time (the one to my heart) because my body tells me there is a wind that blows through everything.  It responds to subtle breezes even when I think its still.

When your mind is having trouble deciding, even if it’s just what to have for dinner or what to wear, ask your body for its sanguine advice.    One thing I know, it will always say, “dance first, think later.”  Start with that.

See you at class!   ♥ Kathy