So during my Nia class in a few moments of freedance using Duncan Dance as inspiration, I carefully began undulating my spine.  I gradually placed more focus on the chest, shoulders and neck area – sensing the upper half of my spine where the cervical and thoracic meet.  Using head and eye movement, my hands and arms to dance my spine gently, breathing and relaxing into the movement I felt my upper back and shoulders open up and loosen. I reached into the air above me, explored space behind me.  The movement got easier, and felt so good.  By the end, I felt lighter, the tightness and pain was melting away.  By the next morning, it was gone…

I could have decided that I was in too much pain to move – I could have decided to just take some Ibuprofen and hope it will go away. 

In my last 3 years teaching Nia, studying and using movement as medicine, I have learned that stillness and ibuprofen have their uses certainly. In this case I did use them both wisely.  However, movement often is avoided and yet it is a powerful step in healing physically, mentally and emotionally. If you “Fly Beyond” fear of it and begin with love and gentle kindness to yourself.

Here is the music that danced me through:

As the winds of fall blow and the colourful leaves dance off the trees, I reflect on my own self-care practice and renewal process.

Trees are not static or still, when the wind blows, trees move. They sway and dance. When they are healthy, they can survive gusts of wind by being able to bend and twist. It is truly remarkable how they manage the powerful kinetic energy of the air around us – I admire this agility!

For me, movement for wellbeing (exercise) isn’t just a side thought anymore. You know, an “extra” activity that I do only if I have time, energy or if I’m “in the mood” to do. It is in fact, the very key to my ability to handle all of what life blows in my direction.

Movement adjusts the atmosphere of my mind and body. The efficiency and performance of the brain and body is enhanced by combining creative freedom, precision and focus and clearing meditation. I am able to transform and release thoughts and emotions like leaves while bringing strength into my body at the same time. Any anxiety or stress I was feeling before has been managed. I finish my practice feeling balanced, flexible, and strong both in mind and body. I am better prepared for the winds of life!

I know that exercise and movement just feels like a chore right now.

I really know that akward and uncomfortable feeling in gyms.

I remember feeling frustrated and showing up “just to get through it” then questioning “Why am I even doing this?”

I invite you to experience your own self-care transformation and feel the amazing benefits of deep, fufilling and more connected body conditioning.

You’ll have a chance learn about my inspiring approach and recieve tools that can get you started!

I was so excited to have the ladies from #FitHamilton try some Nia!

They had great time! Read what they had to say!

http://fithamilton.ca/2012/09/what-is-nia/

Running my own business so far has been the most daring thing I’ve ever done – and those who know me can attest that I have done some things! As I am setting, achieving, tweaking my goals, I have leaned into this fire within me – tapping deeper into my “inner warrior” strength.  This is a time in my life where I am being challenged with “control” in many ways.  I have cultivated my own sense of solid support, a new foundation to hold me up during this process.

There has been a reconditioning of my focus, voice and reactions.  Looking back at my creative life, my years doing Improv Theatre, I felt a great deal of satisfaction in those same ways – which explains my urge to get back into the game after a long hiatus!  There is a part of me that loves this dance of mindful precision, quick thinking, and boldness in the face of the unknown.

What have you been doing lately to keep your “inner warrior” busy in a positive way?

If you have ever wanted to learn more about the Medicine Wheel? This is a great opportunity to do that AND get moving!

In this 4 part series, you get a glimpse into the depth and practicality of the Medicine Wheel and learn how you can apply this knowledge to your health, career and relationships!  Even more amazing is that this series will get you moving at the same!

Don’t be shy, everyone is welcome!

The intention of this class is to explore some of the beginning principles of The Nia Technique.  The focus of the first class will be on introducing you to the philosophy and some of the science behind Nia.  The next 5 sessions will include learning the basic 52 Moves of Nia and highlight principles such as: Joy in Movement, Dynamic Ease, Yin and Yang and Free Dance!

The Body’s Way series is just a small sampling of what Nia has to offer!

“Nia is like chocolate, words aren’t enough to describe it, you just have to taste it!”

“The Medicine Wheel reminds us of many things, such as the need for balance in the world, and the balance we must strive for everyday within ourselves.” ~ LILLIAN PITAWANAKWAT, ELDER

What I have learned and experienced as an Anishnaabe kwe resides in the very core of my being. The teachings of the medicine wheel have been at the center of my art and my professional work.

It would be a pleasure and an honour to share with you a physical experience rooted in the beautiful, nurturing and ancient wisdom of the medicine wheel.

This workshop will provide you with an opportunity to relax, meditate and learn through the body. Beginning with a guided movement and leading to organic, free movement or dance, you are empowered to express your true dance. A breath-taking soundscape of drums, singing and contrasting silence facilitates your body’s journey.

I invite you to take this opportunity to move and discover with me! Email to register:

earthmovesme (at) gmail (dot) com

I am so excited to offer two new workshops that explore self expression and movement in fresh and exciting ways!  More workshops will be announced soon so stay tuned!

Intro To Sensual Dance Art & Intro to Sacred Earth Movement

Check out the Workshops & Events section for the details!

Each Month The Earth Moves offers Full Moon Gatherings. Enjoy relaxation, meditation, gentle movement and storytelling. Learn from an indigenous perspective, how our lives & bodies connect to the moon, water and the earth. Partial proceeds & donations will be given to a different aboriginal organization or project every month.

April Full Moon Gathering will contribute to Southern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative

Taking the time to celebrate the Full Moon is part of the Anishnaabe (Ojibwe) way of life (as well as many other nations).  I grew up learning teachings and hearing the stories since I was a girl and growing into a woman.  As a mother I have learned a great deal more of my responsibilities from my sisters and elders to care for myself and the earth.

The traditions I have learned stay vibrant and strong when I can celebrate and share some of them with others.  For me, celebrating a full moon with a gathering of all people is a beautiful way to honour this knowledge that has been given to me.  It is one way I can live my truth and carry forward this ancient wisdom into the present and future.  Acknowledging the precious gift of my strength, knowing who I am, where I come from and the beauty of the patchwork quilt of my ancestry.
~ Laura Reid, The Earth Moves

Each Month The Earth Moves offers Full Moon Gatherings. Enjoy relaxation, meditation, gentle movement and storytelling. Learn from an indigenous perspective, how our lives & bodies connect to the moon and the earth. Partial proceeds & donations will be given to a different aboriginal organization or project every month.

March Full Moon Gathering will contribute to McMaster University’s Aboriginal Students Health Sciences Office.

Taking the time to celebrate the Full Moon is part of the Anishnaabe (Ojibwe) way of life (as well as many other nations).  I grew up learning teachings and hearing the stories since I was a girl and growing into a woman.  As a mother I have learned a great deal more of my responsibilities from my sisters and elders to care for myself and the earth.

The traditions I have learned stay vibrant and strong when I can celebrate and share some of them with others.  For me, celebrating a full moon with a gathering of all people is a beautiful way to honour this knowledge that has been given to me.  It is one way I can live my truth and carry forward this ancient wisdom into the present and future.  Acknowledging the precious gift of my strength, knowing who I am, where I come from and the beauty of the patchwork quilt of my ancestry.
~ Laura Reid, The Earth Moves