This week’s Dance First Member Insight  is brought to you by renowned Nia leader Danielle Woermann, creator of FloraMotion . Dance First members are sharing their insights and inspirations during this troubled time, as well as how they are coping. Plus links to live streams and online offerings for you.

Dear Conscious Dancers,

During this unprecedented time of the Coronavirus shelter-in-place order, all of our lives have shifted. We are mostly indoors and away from work, with the exception of our frontline and service workers. To those braving exposure to help others within their community, I thank you with all of my heart.

As movement teachers and healers who work in a group setting, our work has only changed insofar as there are no brick and mortar studios to go to. Instead, many of us have converted bedrooms, basements, and decks into virtual studios. It isn’t always a perfect solution — get a sound system, hang a blanket over the window and point your computer or phone camera in the right direction. But we do the best we can, and if it’s not perfect, well, it’s enough. Our students are eager to see us again, and it helps to make their day a little brighter. Most importantly, it facilitates healing for everyone.

In an unfamiliar way, I am finding intimacy within my Nia class pod. A virtual studio holds certain unexpected advantages. During my class, at least two of my cats will wander in. My doors open 15 minutes before class for a brief chat. Students are welcome to visit afterwards, as well. Friends from near and far are welcome to join, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. I can take classes with teachers around the world in their time zones.

I hope you have noticed how the community comes together, despite our new virtual setting. Unity and togetherness are found in our movement practices, our friendships, and in an infinite number of other small ways. I see it in the 8:00 cheering for the tireless heroes at the frontlines, for the folks who deliver food, for the grocery store workers. I see it in the community singing in neighbourhoods around the globe. I see it in the cello recital on the lawn, and in children’s window drawings.

It feels real to me.

Classes with Danielle are Tuesdays/Thursdays/Saturdays 10:00 PST via Zoom

Danielle Woermann
Nia Instructor/Retreat Leader
Flower Essence Practitioner
Floramotion.net
Podcast: STFU We Are Not Done Talking Yet