As I was planning my Nia workshop for Ausust 15th, I delved deeper into the Nia concept of FreeDance myself.  FreeDance is an integral part of the Nia Technique, and present in almost every Nia class.  It is unstructured movement to music, but as I found out it goes much deeper than that! 

So, yes, FreeDance is basically turning on your favorite song and dancing like no one's watching... but it's power and depth go deeper in the practice of Nia in 2 ways:

1. In Nia there is actually a PROCESS to FreeDance, in which we learn how to break out of habitual movement patterns and stimulate creativity and healing on a deeper level.  Essentially we learn to dance in new and different ways by learning to turn off our self-judgement.  This is gratifying on more than just a physical level - and it creates a richer experience of Nia when we practice it.  Imagine carrying that over to life outside of Nia -sign me up!
2. When practiced using the PROCESS, FreeDance can be a rewarding home practice for days when you don't have Nia class.  After learning the process, you will be able to sustain your dance for longer and find it more rewarding. And, based on a new study by the Pennington Research Center, 70 minutes of moderate exercise a week (that's 10 minutes of FreeDance a day!) can reduce your risk of major disease and improve your quality of life. 

So even if your current exercise regimen does not include Nia, learning the process of FreeDance can benefit you inside and outside the gym.  You can work on your solo for the next season of "So You Think You Can Dance"!  Learn more and register for the FreeDance workshop at Creative 360 in Midland here.  Who knows, maybe you'll even be able to move like this.....