Mindfulness in Motion
The word “mindfulness” is common now. Practically everyone has heard of it, and many are aware that it’s a good thing that they probably need more of.
But what is mindfulness? Is it meditation? An Eastern religious belief? Sitting still and calming down?
Mindfulness is consciously giving your full attention to the present moment, observing your experience without judging. It is being fully present, calmly acknowledging and accepting thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations without trying to change them. It is sinking into the now.
That sounds easier than it is. We live in an information tornado, a constant carnival of distractions. Our culture prizes multi-tasking and makes us fear “missing out.” We are rewarded for productivity, decisiveness, speed. To give full attention to the now, without striving, judging or taking any action whatsoever, might initially feel like giving up. Falling behind. Losing.
But it is a huge plus for our mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice decreases stress, anxiety and depression. It helps us regulate our emotions, take things less personally, make better decisions, and take more pleasure in everyday life. That’s why I regard mindfulness as a pillar of mental health.
It takes a lot of practice to develop mindfulness. But you don’t have to be seated. You can be moving.
My online NIA classes are an example of a moving mindfulness practice. In my classes, you will experience mindfulness in motion.
How can a dance fitness class develop mindfulness? Most don’t, but mine do. NIA stands for “Now I Am.” My NIA classes immerse you in the present moment. As we move, I coach you to sense your body non-judgmentally and give your full attention to your right-now experience. Every class has a focus, which I help you maintain - healing you learn to direct and sustain your attention.
With regular attendance, you will find yourself observing your feelings and sensations outside of class as well - without judgment. Your body awareness will go up, and your body criticism will go down. You will become more accepting, more present, less reactive, calmer. You will have more options for how to respond more mindfully in daily life (here are some terrific examples).
For the first quarter of 2023, my classes will be designed to develop mindfulness, as part of my year-long program, “NIA Dance for Mental Health.” In Q1 we’ll focus on Mindfulness; in Q2, Self-Love; in Q3, Resilience; and in Q4, Empowerment.
All this while also burning calories, building stamina and developing balance and coordination. Physical fitness and mental health in the same hour! A very efficient use of your time.
The entire year is drop-in, meaning you can take any class and start anytime. Every class comes with 24-hr replay so you can dance later that day, if you can’t make the start time.
Class times:
Saturdays 9am Pacific
Mondays 9am Pacific
I’M READY - TAKE ME TO SIGNUP!
TELL ME MORE ABOUT YOUR CLASSES
TELL ME MORE ABOUT “NIA DANCE FOR MENTAL HEALTH” PROGRAM
Come join me for some mindfulness in motion!
