Bob Holroyd comes to Nia Class

Do you sometimes feel like a fish swimming upstream? recently with buying a new computer, doing taxes and being in the process of selling the NiaMoves business, I've been having my moments. Then life happened!  I've been swirled and inspired into an upward spiral, in awe of how the flow of life, connection and synchronicity can come together with miraculous ease, for something magical to happen. For me I see this as an ever confirming moment of how there has to be a God! and I surrender, with abundant joy and deep gratitude, to the One with a master plan.

For the first time in 20+ years I decided to visit my Mum and Dad in the UK for a week, completely for a personal trip, i.e. not linked with a training or special event. A great way to enjoy Easter, celebrate my Mum's birthday and have a unique opportunity to simply BE with my parents!  With the intent to make transportation as easy as possible for Mum and Dad I focused on choosing the best flights and times. (driving in traffic on the M25 can be super stressful). I then remembered Jo Turner (Nia teacher) who, since her white belt in Norfolk several years ago, has repeatedly offered to pick me up and/or host me for an event, as she lives super close to Heathrow airport. Then POOF! what a great idea!  one email and we were booked; Jo picking me up, Mum and Dad arriving later with less stressed AND I have the extra joy of meeting Nia fans who take class with Jo!  

BobHolroydDifSpace.jpg

Next I get a curious email from Jo, "do you know the Nia routine U?....  there's a couple of songs from an musician called Bob Holroyd, he's a friend of mine and I was wonderful if we could invite Bob to see Nia to his music".  I LEAPED out of my seat, "Ha! there's another classic Nia routine (one of my favorites) called AO, originally created by Nia Co Founder, Carlos Aya Rosas. The entire playlist comes from "Different Space", an album by none other than… Bob Holroyd!!

And so it is - I will be teaching on Saturday with about 35 Nia dancers, to the music of Bob Holroyd and he will be participating with us! Some folks are bringing drums and instruments to join in the fun. This is turning out to be a most remarkable Nia class experience which came about with the most amazing ease. I feel like a happy salmon swimming along with the flow of the river, thoroughly enjoying the ride.

Mum and Dad plan to arrive for the class. They'll get to witness me teaching (which often brings my lovely Mum to tears) and maybe join in the dance. Beyond my wildest dreams I'll be meeting Bob and sharing how his music inspires me and so many folks around the world who love to dance to his amazing artistry.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Joe will be continuing to paint and repair ready for our next season of guests beginning in April. It's looks soOOOO good :-) We look forward to sharing the additions and improvements with you soon.

Class is Saturday March 25, 9:30am, details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1981846202041034

Listen to the music here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ezv-lKQKQN8

For more information about Bob Holroyd visit  http://www.bobholroyd.com

A Different Space was Bob's third album, and the first on the US Six Degrees label. Released to critical acclaim it featured the cult classic African Drug. Previously remixed by pioneering DJs Coldcut, this version is actually Bob's own remix of the original track, which first appeared on Fluidity & Structure. Since the release of A Different Space, Bob's music has seen a surge of licencing which has seen tracks from the album appearing on at least 50 compilations including Ministry of Sounds Pure Global Chillout, Francois K's The Essential Mix, Coldcut'sJourneys by DJsBuddha Beats, and Claude Challe 's Sun. The track The Sheer Weight of Memory also appears in the Wayne Wang film The Centre of the World.

Save up to $150 when register early for Nia Trainings

Research shows it’s super healthy to sign up for something in advance and have something to look forward to. For us at Soma Ranch, having clients sign up in advance allows us to relax and prepare optimally for your stay ~ it’s big smiles all around :-) We are super excited for a limited time we are implementing a new structure for accommodation. An incentive program to thank you, with rewards, when you sign up in advance, bringing ease to the process.

Attend a Nia training at Soma Ranch & receive up to $150 in "past" "present" "future" vouchers:

Sign up 90+ days in advance receive

  • $50 off your accommodation,                                                 
  • $50 to spend at Soma Ranch during your stay *,
  • $50 towards your next visit at Soma Ranch **

Sign up 60+ days in advance receive

  • $50 to spend at Soma Ranch, 
  • $50 towards your next visit at Soma Ranch **

Sign up 30+ days in advance receive  

  • $50 towards your next visit at Soma Ranch **

* $50 "present" voucher may be used for clothes, snacks, books, kombuchas, gift cards and anything else you find for sale in the Soma Ranch Gift shop!

** $50 "future" voucher can be used for any training or retreat with Helen within 13 months of the initial Nia training.

These special rates apply to folks who pay the full $1599 price for their Nia training and cannot be combined with any other offer.
Email Helen to receive your special discount or call 832-567-4550 to enroll/find out more.

Expires December 31, 2016.

How we may serve you better? is there anything else we may do to help with regards Soma Ranch?

Positive people live up to 10 years longer!

I recently read "positive people live up to 10 years longer!" I trust those extra 10 years are full of joy, happiness & wonder!  This inspires me to be positive. I've noticed how easily I can initiate complaining about something or be sucked into someone else's negative spiraling story. My fun quest for 2016 is how quickly can I catch my habit and turn myself (or the other) around! I certainly feel better as I reflect on my decisions, at the end of the day, when my choices feel more positive than negative!

Check out: Create a positive contagious culture

And here's a great guide, by Anese Cavanaugh, to understanding this influence and showing up in a way that generates positive energy. When a leader creates this positive presence, everything changes. You can be that leader. You can be positively contagious: "For better or worse, your presence has impact. It is contagious." 

Show up, Set the Tone and Intentionally Create an Organization that Thrives

 

Full House!

Today we complete a Nia Blue Belt training at Soma Ranch with a "full" house. Folks stayed in the house, the dorm, the RV, our neighbors' cottage and White Eagle Lodge. It's a full house! Providing the course with full board accommodation for 16 people for 7 days.

Participants

Alanna Wilson, Squamish, BC, Canada
Alisa Spirit of the Wind, Austin, TX
Brooke Siglin, Spokane, WA
Dawn Min, Sudbury,MA
Joy Thompson, Tampa, FL
Judy Jorgensen, Liberty Lake, WA
Lila Haham, Austin, TX
Margaret Wittenberg, Fredericksburg, TX
Tippie Koenig, Morehead, KY
Sylvie De Wever, San Francisco, CA
Toni Tovaglia, Ashland, OR
Zack, San Francisco, CA

Guests

Kira Hower, Boston, MA
Jasmin Adams, New Zealand
Penny Adams, New Zealand
Tamara Sanderson, Pewee Valley, KY

Jungle Moon

My Nia “Jungle Moon” experience was received very well at the recent NiaYogaDans Festival.

Jungle Moon: Site of the Sacred Drum is the most powerful drum album ever created. It is a magical tapestry of rhythms and melodic drumming that will delight the hearts of everyone. You will want to dance in a trance when you hear the Cave Witch chant. This album is the ultimate house cleaning extravaganza. Read routine notes here.

This Week at the Ranch

Enjoy daily Nia classes at Soma Ranch during our Blue Belt Training

Drop in price $15 or pay $40 for 4 classes (cash or check at the door)

11am Saturday
11am Sunday
11am Monday
11am Tuesday
11am Wednesday


6pm Possible Teacher Jam (if participants decided they'd like to team teach a class)
Watch Facebook or email Helen if you want to know when!

Returning Blue Belts are invited to enjoy sessions during the Nia training.
Email helen@somaranch.com for a schedule.

Fabulous Review from AirBNB "be a rock star" listing

Terry Family Incentive

Terry Family Incentive

Thank you June Hattaway for your lovely review from staying at Soma Ranch. Helen’s only disappointment was how she was out of town and unable to meet you….. Looking forward to the next time…

“My arrival at Soma Ranch was met by Joe and Phelps who gave me the grand tour and an abundance of Texas hospitality. To say that this was a retreat fit for a rock star is an understatement. Soma ranch is a jewel of a place with all the peace, amenities and conveniences that anyone could possibly desire. I missed Helen as she was out of town but hope to meet her on my next stay. It was the perfect place to rest and recharge. The ranch is a wonderful country setting but it is close to shopping, antique merchants, and great dining. Soma Ranch was truly a memorable stay. Thank you Joe and Helen.”

click HERE to check out our AirBNB Listing

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5683173

I'm Worth It! ~ Weekend Retreat

Retreat in a Swing The intention of the “I’m Worth It!” weekend retreat is create a vessel of sacred space so that you can take a breather (literally!) to get grounded, connect with others and most importantly, connect with yourself. What if you take some time to breathe in nature and focus on what matters to you? And while we are at it we might have just a little fun along the way and PLAY!

Click HERE more information and to download the flier.

Price includes lodging, food and materials

Dorm$450Sign up Now
Semi Private$550Sign up Now

Together through illuminating experiences we will learn to:

Build trust through connection and give ourselves permission to be MESSY! Imperfection is perfect and fun!
Have courageous conversations about our strengths and values to cultivate resilience to our inner and outer critics
Bolster our empathy channel, model compassion and practice vulnerability
Bring forward our creativity, tap into innovation and allow ourselves to show up in a powerful way

This weekend retreat will nurture your desire to play big and be brave. Being courageous and playing big while also being vulnerable allows us to lead more authentic and wholehearted lives. Grounded by a sense of purpose and guided by a resilient spirit we will be transformed as women and as leaders.

For more information contact Darla@coachdarla.com

Glowing from ear to ear

AirBNB Children with Cha Cha

We rented Soma Ranch out to a family for 10 days (our longest rental so far). We are tickled pink and glowing from ear to ear to receive their lovely feedback.

Here’s what they shared on the AirBNB report:

“Both of our hosts made us feel welcome in every way possible. They were very flexible about our arrival time, were there to greet us, had done some very thoughtful shopping for us, and the house was in a perfect state. They really made us feel at home and comfortable. Simply perfect.

The house is wonderful. All wood, beautifully decorated with great attention to detail. The kitchen is amazingly well equipped, the long wooden table fabulous for family meals, the bedrooms and bathrooms spotless and beautiful, wonderful beds, enormous piles of towels, and lovely little touches like hand creams and nice soap. Also very efficient air-conditioning, which was a huge bonus! And a super laundry room!

The garden is gorgeous - although how they get such beautiful grass is a secret I would like to learn! It is so well looked after, and the owner came to cut it, clean the pool, and take care of everything with such friendliness and kindness. He even took the children out for a ride on the tractor, which they loved!!

They both took the time to take us around and tell us about the animals, and they showed the children how to feed them. The pool is in mint condition, with little jets of water and pretty lights at night, and is perfect for either serious swimming or to play in. The garden chairs are lovely, and there are two long picnic tables which we used to eat outside. The owners even set everything up for us to make s’mores, and left us the ingredients to enjoy! There is also a very good grill which we used very happily. The house is totally private and secluded, yet close enough to shops, restaurants and the lake to make it a perfect spot whatever sort of holiday you want. I would highly recommend Soma Ranch to anyone who is looking at it - not one thing I would change! It is simply fantastic! A huge thank you to the owners!”

European Vacation with Helen

Helen and Kinga on Bikes

Kuopio Nia Girls

Budapest Nia Girls

We three “amigos” (Kinga, Eija & Helen) are discussing how fun it would be to create unique Nia vacations in fellow “Nia-Lands” around the globe.

Where Helen travels with a group of say 8 - 10 women from the US. We link each woman up to stay in the home of a fellow Nia amigo in Budapest/Finland. (like an “exchange program for adults”). The vacation would include a delicious balance between local insider tours, daily Nia classes and free time to play.

So far we are entertaining offering this in Hungary, Finland and England. 3 different (separate) vacations!

Please email Helen if you’d like more information,

or would like to be a hosting city!

Of course there’s the option of the “amigos” then coming over to Soma Ranch to visit with us.

Thank you Amy and the "College group crew"

Birthday Girls by Pool Thank you Amy and friends for retreating at Soma Ranch. We were touched to learn you have been getting together annually for 21 years, since meeting at 19 at college.
Birthday Girls Relax on the Porch How inspirational. We LOVE how you chose to celebrate y’alls 40th Birthdays with a retreat at Soma Ranch. It was a special treat for Helen to include a private Intro to Nia experience - you girls ROCKED! Special thanks to Amy’s mom, Kay Ward, for being the one who contacted us, set up and gifted the experience. Dreams continue to come true here at Soma Ranch = Joe and Helen feeling blessed and happy.

Thank you Montgomery County United Way

MCUW United Way Relax by Pool MCUW United Way Find Balance Thank you Montgomery County United Way. How wonderful for us to have the opportunity to share Soma Ranch with you. A true joy to witness all Y’all (as they say in Texas) unwinding, team building and fully enjoying the opportunity to be, away from the office and your desk, out in nature for a 2 day retreat.

We are thrilled to hear you had such a good time you want to return. We’ve already received a request from one guest to return offering a dance retreat for teens ~ how cool is that!

Soma Ranch is flourishing and we are glowing witnessing the development and sharing the joys. We enjoyed the concept of this non residential retreat, Attending from 7:30am - 5:30am 2 days in a row allowed you to find balance between getting away and taking care of needs at home in the evening. Something we are open to repeating/offering for other folks.

MotherGood so Mother Good!

MotherGood Group Connection MotherGood by the Pool MotherGood girls sitting on the fence Wow! an amazingly fun yet healing weekend. The concept of mothers coming together to connect, unwind, enjoy each others company, receive support and love, with great food was a dream come true.

Soma Ranch provided the space and time to allow mothers to relax and rejuvenate. Joe and I hope the Mothers had as much fun as it appeared! Thank you for coming to Soma Ranch, we hope you come back soon.

Special thanks to Laura and Lauren the dynamic duo who put this amazing experience together. From beginning to end it was a joy to manifest the retreat with them. They walk their talk and came from big heart, compassion and joy with every exchange, be it via email, text or phone. How inspirational for the potential for how business can be in the world!

Are you curious to attend a similar event? please pencil July 15 - 17, 2016 into your calendar NOW! The girls have already pre-booked “Mother Good Two” retreat and a page devoted to the retreat at Soma Ranch will be constructed shortly.

Email Helen to share your intentions and be kept in touch as this retreat develops.

The Joys of Budapest & Finland ~ Part 4 Nia 5 Stages

Helen Teaching Nia 5 Stages Hermann Nia 5 Stages The group was small yet the rewards were huge. I love how sometimes, when I almost cancel an event due to low enrollment, I feel great I chose to do it anyway. In Nia a phrase called “Cosmic Salary” is something I resonate with. Teaching Nia, and providing courses like the Nia 5 stages, is rewarding, the benefits as a trainer go way beyond the monetary value.

Fortunately participants indicate they feel the same way with comments like “this work is amazing, I’m stunned by how different my body feels in only 2 days” and “I’m so glad I did this” Thank you and congratulations to participants: Hermann, Elvira, Elekra and Edina. Fabulous to connect with such a lovely and international group! (Switzerland, Hungary, Italy, Belgium). Wow! I feel blessed and hope y’all stay in touch.

Special thanks to Mossy for taking some fabulous photos - you captured the moment wonderfully.

The Joys of Budapest & Finland ~ Part 3 Coaching

Budapest Coaching Group

Budapest Coaching Group Lunch

Budapest Coaching Team at The Shift Studio

Specialized Coaching

I think I’ve found my calling! Well I already knew teaching folks to move and heal through Nia was my calling, and now the coaching program I’ve developed is allowing me to take it to the next level.

Over 5 days I worked (I prefer to say played) with 8 Nia teachers, meeting them where they were at, providing insight with regards what they were doing, how they could improve and help build their confidence.

An incredible gift for me to witness these amazing women stepping into their brilliance and radiating.

I’m now hungry for more. Please email Helen if you are curious to receive group coaching, either at Soma Ranch or host something similar in your area.

The Joys of Budapest & Finland Part 2 ~ Ageless Grace

Ageless Grace in Budapest Ageless Grace in Budapest

The Ageless Grace events were received very well, with attendees wanting more. Looks like there will be an Ageless Grace Trainings both in Finland and Hungary next year! Folks enjoyed how spontaneously fun the experience is. Teachers delighted in discovering you don’t need to prepare or spend hours learning and memorizing the moves, instead the simple 21 tools are like a kit you walk into class and, according to the moment, pull out and play. Participants shared they loved how the chairs leveled the playing field, allowing everyone to move at the same level. One lady delighted in how she’d never felt good at sports yet, in Ageless Grace, with imagination, she felt like an Olympic athlete!

The Joys of Budapest & Finland, Part 1 ~ Intro

In June I traveled to Europe for a lovely string of events:

BudapestNia 5 stages
HelsinkiAgeless Grace seminar & Nia MasterClasses
Kuopio5 sessions at the Kuopio Dance Festival
Budapest5 days of specialized coaching
Budapestoodles of fun classes
BudapestFirst Ever Ageless Grace Class

Did you know Hungary and Finland are cousins when it comes to language? Not understanding either language, I was amused to hear conversations and enjoy the similarities in sound and rhythm!

Helen with Eija in Finland

Helen with Kinga in Budapest

Big thank you to Kinga (Budapest, Hungary) and Eija (Helsinki/Kuopio, Finland). How wonderful to manifest magic with you! ~ watching the joy, connection and healing appear as communities get together to dance and share their expressive brilliance! Something I adore about this practice we call Nia, and the livelihood I’ve created around it, is how, around the globe, I now have fantastic friendships with brilliant passionate women, leaders in their own right, bringing people together to make a difference. All through dancing to music!

8th annual BES (Blue Electric Storm) "Triple Play" event

Natural Time Celebration

For the past 7 years we’ve celebrated the Natural Time New Year. This fabulous community event began at NiaMoves, then moved to Soma Ranch and this year (as Soma Ranch is super booked!) we are returning to NiaMoves

Come enjoy the “Triple Play” event ~ get together, dance, party!
Saturday, July 25th at NiaMoves in the Heights, 508 Pecore TX 77009

5:30 - 7:00pmLEARN“Natural Time” GatheringFREE
7:15 - 8:45 pmDANCENia Extravaganza experience to Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon$20 in advance $25 on the day
9:00 pm onwardsPLAYcontinue the party with Helen at Cambrey’s newly opened saloon FuegosFree Admission!

Click-For-More-Information

for Entertainment click this link to revisit what we offered the second year.