The Nia technique is an exciting, dance-based movement practice, which engages body, mind and spirit in developing cardio-vascular fitness and strength.

Benefits of Nia

Cardiovascular Conditioning	Stress Reduction
Improved Muscle Tone	Greater Flexibility
Postural Alignment	Better Concentration
Emotional Release

Created in the early 1980's by Portland, Oregon fitness pioneers Debbie and Carlos Rosas, Nia combines elements of jazz, modern and Duncan dance; martial arts & yoga. Short for Neuromuscular Integrative Action, Nia uses a barefoot, grounded approach, developing authentic body-awareness as you focus on structure, alignment and core-body strength. Guided breath-work and visualizations - along with the eclectic world-beat music - add hints of "trance dance" and meditation...Each Nia class soars from sweaty challenge to moments of pure, ecstatic bliss: Step out of your stressed-out life, for an hour, and dance your way to inner peace!

"You're burning fat and calories, building your muscles, giving your heart a real workout - but you're not running, bounding or panting. Your feet are planted, your mind is calm, your body is fluid. Welcome to Nia."
- Natural Health magazine

"Who knew working out could be such fun!"
- ELLE magazine

Certified Nia Teacher Catherine A. Salmons directs Southern Vermont's Nia program, based at Studio Bliss: Center for Expressive Movement, in downtown Rutland.

Cathy is also a widely published poet, performer and professor in the graduate department of Creative Arts in Learning at Lesley University. She has spent years in the study and practice of poetry, music, ancient languages and translation; she has training in dance improvisation, yoga, shiatsu and shamanic healing. An established performing artist, she directs the award-winning poetry and world-music ensemble, VOX POP. In addition to teaching Nia, she teaches poetry to emerging writers of all ages.

Nia-VT is pleased to welcome Kelly Fenton, certified Nia teacher and graduate student at Castleton State. Kelly will be offering a brand new Nia class at Studio Bliss, Friday mornings at 11:00 am. Come and check out Kelly's flowing, high-energy style!

All Nia-VT classes take place at Studio Bliss, The Opera House, 59-67 Merchants Row, Rutland. 802-775-2547.

© Copyright 2004 Nia VT ~ All rights reserved.
Last updated: January 5, 2005
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