Day 43 of 52 Nia dance
We are back from four days in Colorado. Among the places we visited: the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Here’s a thing I didn’t know about this four-year college that focuses on engineering and the sciences: All the students learn to be glider pilots and the program there is the largest glider operation in the world. We spent a fine part of a sunny afternoon watching small powered aircraft tow the sleek gliders into the sky and release them. They would soar and then turn and glide slowly down to the grassy airstrip. It’s a program run by the students. With the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, these lovely human-built craft seemed more like graceful birds.
It was unexpected and inspiring.
Going out and then coming home we had to run the gantlet of Denver traffic and the massive airport. Bulky commercial airplanes are a completely different species than the gliders. And maybe that’s why, when I got home, I wanted something soothing for my Nia routine.
I chose “Shine” online with Kristin Schmitz, a routine focused on both movement and stillness. It was a perfect follow to a busy hectic morning of travel.
Susan Palmer's Exquisite Now 
4 responses to “Take a breath”
I continue to marvel at how, at least in my experience, Nia instructors pick routines that seem to fit my need. As I’ve said before, I trust you.
I’m really glad to learn that you chose to dance “Shine” Susan. I also feel calmed and nourished in a special way by it, but have been uncertain how our class felt about it. I think I’ll bring it back soon for more feedback. Welcome home! We missed you!
I like having Shine in my tank, so to speak, but often what I imagine I want from Nia is a little more lively. It’d be fun to dance it with you again.
Yes, you touched right on my concern. Since my classes are in the morning, I think people, for the most part, would like an invigorating, more aerobic experience, so I hold back with routines that have that slower pace. On the other hand, these routines are very calming to our nervous systems and sometimes that’s exactly what we need. I can’t possibly know what will land for each individual, so I do my best to deliver the delicious”energy variety” that Nia offers.