what is nia

Nia is a holistic movement practice that works with elements from martial arts, dance, and relaxation techniques to bring together body, mind, and soul. It is a sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts, and healing arts, and empowers people of all shapes and sizes by connecting the body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Nia was first developed by Americans Debbie and Carlos Rosas in the 1980s in Portland, Oregon, as a workout that addressed all muscle groups effectively, but without repetitive drills. The concept evolved far beyond the original aim to incorporate body, mind, and soul in equal measure, and in so doing, to experience pure joy in movement. Nia classes usually last around an hour and are suitable for people with all levels of fitness. The classes aim to engage the mind and emotions through exercise and are completed in bare feet, to help you feel a connection between you and the earth.