If one of your New Year's resolutions is to be good to yourself, then Nia is for you. In a Nia class, you move your body to simple routines based on movement forms from the martial arts, dance arts, and healing arts. Nia is based on 13 movement-based principles and is suitable for all ages and all body types. You'll discover a holistic fitness practice that connects your mind, body, emotions, and spirit in a workout that is packed with fun.
Many Bowen Islanders have enjoyed Nia classes over the past few years. Tamsin Miley, a regular Nia dancer, states, "What I really like about Nia is that it's not about performance, it's about indulging in sheer fun, to great music in the company of Nia friends who generously share their enthusiasm and energy, whatever that mood may be. This is absolutely the best form of exercise for me because, as well as providing a great work-out at multiple levels, a Nia class with Deb or Carol is guaranteed to improve my mood. Over the last 12 years, Nia is pretty much the only fitness regime I have practised regularly. Right now, I run a new business from home and can readily become overly focused on work. Nia provides essential balance and is an important part of what keeps me sane amidst Bowen craziness."
And here's what Diana Kaile has to say, "I love my Nia class, mainly because I enjoy the combination of dance with yoga and martial arts. The music is thoughtfully combined to match the movements. At the end of the class,I feel a sense of freedom, that I have been stretched,am fitter, more alive and flexible. As a non-gym person, I like the way that every muscle seems to get a workout. We are blessed to have such talented teachers on the island who guide us in different sequences. I look forward to my weekly class."
On Bowen Island, you can choose from three Nia classes a week. Join Deborah Bramm at the teen centre from 7 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday evenings and again at the Gallery at Artisan Square on Thursday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m., and join Carol Cram at the teen centre from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. on Saturday mornings.
This winter, both Deb and Carol are joining the cast of Broadway on Bowen, so they've made a few adjustments to the Tuesday and Saturday classes. On Tuesday, February 5 and 12, Deb's class will start at 4:30 p.m. and on Saturday, February 9 and 16, Carol's class will start at 2 p.m.
You can sign up for the Tuesday and Saturday classes through Bowen Island Community Recreation (check the web site). Drop ins are always welcome. For more information, call Carol at 9408 or Deborah at 2290.
