From Standing to Sitting
My intent through my work has been to bring movement to as many people as possible. I’ve been practicing this intent for 35 years now, beginning with Jane Fonda aerobics and ultimately finding Nia. It’s been an amazing journey that marks my life in a powerful way. As I age I look ahead to the years of dancing left, and a vision of continuing my work until the end. With this in mind, I stepped in into my Nia Moving to Heal (M2H) training in early October 2016 along with my friend and colleague, Jennifer Hilkemann. Nia M2H classes are designed for people who need or want a slower, simpler approach to dance and exercise. M2H classes are also perfect for anyone recovering from surgery, healing an injury or coping with a chronic condition.
Jennifer and I were both inspired to offer classes as soon as possible. I launched my classes at Van Dorn Villa, a 55+ condo complex. Jennifer launched her classes at the Unitarian Church. I’m happy to say classes are flourishing with dedicated students who sense the value of movement in their lives and are embracing the Nia approach. Still, there are many who feel this is more than they can do and hence stay away from the class.
In a week I will be launching a chair only Moving to Heal class designed to reach those who need this extra support for safety and security. I’m excited about moving from standing to sitting and developing my skill and creativity in this new format. I look forward to the new friendships I will have and the opportunity to share Nia with a new group of people. It’s a gift to be able to bring joy into people’s lives, and I am rewarded in many ways. Maybe I’ll get free rent for classes when I find myself living in a retirement home. Not a bad way to go!