As a dynamic red sun rises over the hills of Benicia, I reflect upon a most amazing dance class called NIA-non impact aerobics. .
NIA is conscious dance. It is the freedom to follow the pleasure of one’s body, to stretch to ancient and new tunes, connects ones breath in rhythm to sweat and create art with your body, solo, and in choreography with fellow dancers.
Todays’ lesson is the continuum of ease and dynamics. The dance flows with lightness, transitioning to a forceful vibrancy. Take the same movement and increase the intensity by becoming as statuesque as marble or granite. Then become as fluid as a stream or floating like a feather.
Conscious dance means I am the source of the dance. A creator not drawn to habitual movement. I may use a grapevine, an eight-step rhythm, an elevating movement in praise, or a bow of gratitude. I am moving in new ways, seeking the force of a modern dancer and next softening becoming the chi of gentleness.
The instructor often adds another dimension. An aspect like speaking using vocal variety, changing volume or tempo. Making a guttural statement aloud using power words, YES! NO! Maybe?
The dance becomes a continuum of Repulse, Attract, Let Go. With broad powerful strokes then transition to the flimsiness of shading bringing harmony or contrast to the palette.
NIA is a dance of playfulness. A game to find unknown beauty and pleasure in being the music. Using the magic of sounds, the joy of movement and the truth that we are our creator and accepting and creating change, consciously.
Thanks to all the moms, especially mine, for enrolling me in dance class as a 12-year -old.
