Are you looking to start a new activity to make the most of life now that lockdown is nearly over? Wanting the opportunity to reconnect with people? Maybe you’re seeking a fun exercise that can get you social again after lockdown? This blog will be covering an amazing beginners social dance Raglan class. It will also discuss the technique that’s taught, why it’s perfect for newcomers to dance, and how to access classes.
As you may have heard already, the majority of New Zealand is moving to Alert Level 2 from Tuesday the 7th of September, 11:59 p.m. This means many public services and locations will be opening back up. This includes gyms, studios, and a variety of classes to keep you active. Your beginner’s dance class at Dance NZ is no exception. It will be providing in-person classes during level 2 as well as online classes for individuals located in Auckland or overseas!
The Art of Nia Dance
Nia Dance is a holistic movement art that is commonly performed by individuals as a form of exercise, as a mindfulness technique, as a physical and mental health practice, or all of the above! Many people have different reasons for practicing Nia Dance, however no matter your goals or reasons, the Nia Technique is perfect for everyone.
If you’re a beginner in dance, Nia Dance is an ideal movement form to introduce to the world of dance and is perfect for advanced dancers too, so you can stick with Nia Dance even after you become more experienced.
There are 52 movements in total that makeup Nia Dance and each movement is inspired by one of 9 different arts that originate from a martial, dance, or healing art. Some of these 9 arts include tai-chi, the Alexander technique, and yoga to name a few.
Because of this, Nia Dance is a non-impact and highly adaptable form of dance that relies on interpreting movements based on what feels right for your body, rather than forcing actions that feel unnatural. This means listening to your body and adapting movements so they flow; you can even create your own personal style, or add a jazzy or sensual flare to make it feel unique and suited to you.
You don’t have to perform everything exactly which makes it a fantastic kind of fitness for beginners who want to get proactive in dance but lack the experience. This relieves you of the stress of worrying about doing moves correctly, allowing you to focus on yourself and gaining confidence and happiness through dancing your way.
Alert Level 2 at Dance NZ
Beginner Nia Dance classes are held at Dance NZ and are known as Gentle Nia classes. Dance NZ produces 5 different Nia Dance classes online through Zoom, and in-person in the Hamilton and Raglan area.
Gentle Nia classes are appropriate for people who are new to dance, new to fitness, or who require moves that use lower levels of mobility. This class, as well as all other classes at Dance NZ, provides a safe, pleasant, and judgment-free environment for everyone. You’ll find your classmates and teacher, Belinda Goodwin, to be passionate, helpful, and easy to make new social relationships with, so you won’t feel alone!
Now that New Zealand is heading into Level 2, now is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of in-person classes! If you’re located elsewhere or prefer to remain at home, do not worry. Online classes at Dance NZ are still available as live Zoom sessions or as 24-hour purchasable replays, which you can find here.
There are numerous mental and physical health and emotional well-being benefits that are common when participating in Nia Dance. Some of these benefits include pain relief, weight loss, muscle toning, reduced muscle tension, reduced stress and anxiety, calm and relaxed energy, a more positive mindset, enhanced circulation, supported posture, increased organ and cognitive function, and improved cardiovascular health.
Book Now
Take life by the horns and do what you’ve always dreamed of doing. Or, try something completely new and out of your comfort zone. Participate in Gentle Nia at Dance NZ today or check out other classes below. With classes that are suited to any individual needs and abilities, different options to access sessions, and amazing health and social benefits, Nia Dance can cater to all!
Have a concern? Any questions or worries can be submitted in the question box below and Dance NZ will respond to you as soon as possible.
Weekly Dance classes to choose from , dancing Live Online or In person at our Dance Venues
In order to book any classes, you must be signed up as a member at Dance NZ. You can do this for free on our website here.
• Nia Dance Move to Heal: Available at 11:15 a.m, every Tuesday. This Move to Heal class is located at the venue of Saint Aidan’s Hall. Zoom sessions are also available here.
• Classic Nia One: Available at 5:30 p.m, each Tuesday. This Classic Nia class is offered at the Fishing and Sports Club, Waikato. This venue is located in Hamilton on Grantham Street. Zoom sessions are also open here.
• Gentle Nia: Available at 9:30 a.m, each Wednesday. This Gentle Nia class is located at the venue of Raglan Town Hall. This venue is located in Raglan at 41 Bow Street. Zoom sessions are also open here.
• Classic Nia Two: Available at 9:30 a.m, each Friday. This Classic Nia class is located in Saint John’s Hall. This venue is located in Hamilton at 20 Wellington Street. Zoom sessions are also open here.
• Nia for Parkinson’s Freedom Dance: Available at 12:00 pm, each Friday. The Parkinson’s Freedom Dance class is located in Hamilton at Saint John’s Hall. Zoom sessions are also open here.
Learn more about the Nia Technique at nianow.com.