Explanation of the Nia Dance Technique

Nia, or Neuromuscular Integrative Action, is a form of expressive movement, similar to dance, that allows students to work on physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being all at once. The focus is on self-healing and getting to know your body and the way it moves and as a result the way you feel. Students are encouraged to develop self-awareness and follow their own internal signals. All that being said, it is definetly a dance/fitness class and works your muscles as well as giving you a cardio-vascular workout (you will sweat!).

Nia was developed by two former physical fitness instructors, Carlos Rosas and Debbie Rosas, as a result of wanting to find exercise that was pleasing and fun to do, fitness that encouraged the joy of movement. The actual technique combines movements from tae kwon do, aikido, t'ai chi, jazz, modern and duncan dance, yoga, feldenkrais and alexander technique. Watching a class it appears similar to an aerobics class because the teacher is speaking directions while everyone is moving, but the movements are softer, gentler and have more "flow". There is also stretching and strengthening incorporated into the class. Not everyone in the class will be doing exactly the same movements, but with Nia, that's okay. Dancers are expected to interpret the direction and adapt it for their own abilities.

A Nia class is typically done barefoot, with CD musical accompianment. Because the dancers are encouraged to perform movements based on their own body's guidance, people of all skill and ability levels are able to do Nia. Athletes, seniors, children and beginners can all benefit from a nia class. Essentially, anyone that could benefit from a loving relationship with their body is encouraged to try Nia.

There are 52 basic nia moves used during the class. These movements are used multi-dimensionally - down, up, out, roated, inward, etc., in order to stimulate creativity and a sense of peace in your body. The moves are low impact and very easy on the joints of the body.

Teachers of Nia are required to be certified and you should always ask about qualifications when considering a class. You can find out about certification by checking the Nia Now website. Classes and workshops can be found online, a simple search with your favorite search engine should turn up some results. You may also want to call around to local dance studios, yoga studios or alternative healing centers to ask if they offer Nia classes. If you'd like to try Nia on your own first the Nia Now website has some VHS tapes you can do at home. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of other "at-home" nia workouts available and you may not be able to find a class in your area. Check the Nia Now website frequently as they offer an extensive training program and new instructors are always being trained.