Soma News: August 11, 2023

Happy Friday Soma Friend!

We hope you are well, enjoying your summer and interested in our weekly update from Soma. There’s been a LOT going on…

Helen is back from the Eugene, having co-lead a fabulous Nia White Belt with Kellie Chambers. The experience was an absolute joy and we really appreciate how the team provided excellent classes through out the week. Helen’s looking forward to dancing “The Dance” (with the Music of OLDER, George Michael) tomorrow morning ONLINE classes in the morning (Saturday)

• 8:45am 5 stages with focus The Jaw

• 10am Nia The Dance with focus The Jaw, open the gates to grounded movement

Our 30 day Challenge for the month of August features the focus "BASE" has kicked off wonderfully, we’re a 3rd into the month already, there’s still time to join us if you’d like! This is the beginning of a 3 month series that takes us through BASE, CORE, UPPER

Focus: Foundation, Steps & Stances

Intent: Ground, the hands that touch the earth

This monthly challenge program has evolved into an awesome community, with fabulous teachers. What started out as a grand experiment has developed into a wonderfully well working system with a superb team who encourage and inspire. Enjoy checking out a summary of the classes provided this week, a taste of Natasha’s creativity and the joys of mentorship.

Have a fantastic weekend, and we hope to see y’all soon!

Monthly Cuppa is this MONDAY!!

wishing you a great weekend

with love

Helen, Joe and all the fond 4 legged friends at Soma

Team: Joy of a Circle of Teachers

This week, while Helen was in Eugene, our fabulous team of rock star teachers, led some awesome classes with our monthly focus "BASE - The Foundation”

Maria Whitley lead the Saturday Nia 5 Stages and 10am Nia Class with the focus sight.

She teaches these classes hybrid from Louisville, Kentucky, via zoom.

A joy to dance online with Maria’s regular participant Kristi, a recent graduate from the Nia white belt with Helen here at Soma Ranch in July.

Kristie demonstrated the moves of the 5 stages while Maria explained, what a dynamic duo!

Natasha Villeneuve took a safe risk teaching our fabulous fun Friday class. As the member of our team who talented at delivering choreography and details, Natasha’s stretch was to be more loose in a creative process the experience proved to be wonderfully fun and successful. Click here for more details.

Natasha recently graduated from the Nia MoveIT program. A course that focuses on how to deliver all the 52 moves (1 per minute in a 60 minute class experience) with the option to bring in interval training to enhance reflexive movement and anaerobic conditioning, according to the need and interest of the class.

Paul Duff showed how to be real, sensitive and deliver an excellent class on Tuesday.

Having heard the news of a gay man who was killed for dancing at a gas station, Paul, danced from his kitchen with tears, joy, laughs and huge heart.

Providing a “sandwich” Nia 30 min class experience Paul flip flopped between songs from the Nia Routine Bloom and the Nia Routine 2gether.

He called the experience “Bloom 2 gether”

Elaine Dunphy taught a lovely 30 minute healing movement Wednesday class opening in her usual style with a beautiful poem, and the step in of “through movement we find health”

Elaine then led a Fun Friday Class with a fabulous Ageless Grace 30 min experience.

Ageless Grace (designed by fellow Nia Teacher, Denise Medved) is a movement experience for the Brain, a wonderful compliment to the Nia and other movement experiences we provide.

“Never to late to start, never to early to begin”

Helen was able to sustain teaching the Monday and Thursday 10am classes remotely from Oregon.

With Joe and Gigi at the helm at the Soma Ranch studio, thanks to zoom, Helen was able to teaching all the participants in the room whilst simultaneously teaching the zoom room with folks all around the globe.

On the morning after the training graduation Helen and Kellie were able to co-lead a class celebrating Kellie becoming a trainer.

Irene our resident Feldenkrais teacher extraordinaire is off hiking with Lamas this month. We love how our team can weave in and out to support each other AND we look forward to Irene’s return in September.

Here’s the schedule for the rest of this month:

Jaw ~ Open the Gates to Grounded Movement

This Saturday Soma Ranch Co-Owner, Helen Terry, is teaching both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am class.

Continuing our foundational month, where our focus has been the BASE of movement: Feet, Lower Legs, knees, thighs and all the way up to our hip socket. We will dance to a “retro classic” called “The Dance”. The music is by George Michael.

A fabulous class where we explore the relationship between the jaw and the hips, spine and breath. In summary a relaxed jaw relaxes and grounds all our systems.

“Any tension in the face inhibits breathing. If the jaw stays relaxed, the quality of breath increases, the head can remain balanced, and the body is naturally brought into a state of relaxation.”

— 5 stages

• When our lower jaw is released, we are better positioned to receive information that integrates the right and left frontal lobes of the brain.

• When we let our lower jaw hang as we listen to others talk, we can discover how information moves through us more fluidly.

• A relaxed jaw helps us be more fluid. We are more liquid than matter, mostly water, living in a magnetic and electric energy field. The way to moving elegantly in this magnetic and electric energy field is to be fluid.

“The body contains “energy gates.”
If these lock or close,
we lose energetic connection and
begin to move ourselves physically,
which feels like effort”

— The Jaw ~ 5 Stages

Examples of gates are the hands, feet, eyes, and mouth. If we shut the energy gates from our hands, the upper body gets exhausted. If the hands are open, touching and receiving energy, we feel more energized. If we open and close our jaw and release tension we open the gates of the hips and allow more systemic, fluid movement that natural moves and flows from the ground up.

Helen Terry 8:45am Nia 5 Stages + 10am Nia (CT)

Helen is thrilled to be providing a unique focus in relationship with our monthly focus BASE (Foundation)

• 8:45 Nia 5 Stages lesson Jaw

• 10am Nia class continues the theme of Jaw in relationship with mobility of hips and flowing moves from foundation up.

The exploration of Jaw and Hips provides us with an opportunity to explore our body’s way of moving fluidly as one integrated system.

.The intent will be to have a felt sense of all the gateways opening from the ground up, leaving us fluid and energized.

We would love for y’all to join us!

“We look at anatomy
to see how the body or body part is positioned,
then we sense it in our own bodies.”

— Nia 5 Stages

Classes with Helen Terry 8:45am + 10:00am (CT)

This class is ONLINE via Zoom and 24HR replay upon request. = 2 great choices:

1. online via Zoom and/or

2. Enjoy a 24 hour replay

Usual Class Rates apply: Drop in for $15, buy a class pass or consider signing up for the 30 Day Challenge 30 classes, 30 days $99 and receive the class as part of your package!

This movement experience is suitable for beginners and people of all different fitness backgrounds.

“From looking, listening, learning
and gaining an understanding of anatomy,
we can then sense
to re-align all parts of our body. ”

— Nia 5 Stages

In the Nia 5 Stages, you are invited to a place of sensitivity that enables you to observe and release the sensation of stress and embrace the sensations of Dynamic Ease, Pleasure, and comfort.

““Hi Movement Friends,

I’m back at Soma Ranch, looking forward to sharing both Nia 5 Stages and a sensational with you this Saturday—a double feature!

Our Focus is Jaw, with the Intent to open gateways and have a felt sense of grounded, fluid movement.

Love xoxo”

— Helen Terry

Key concepts

Anatomy: Bones, Muscles, Ligaments, Tendons

Jaw: One of our gateways in the body.

Systemic: Moving as one integrated system (a nested system)

YBW: Your Body’s Way “the current design and function of your body” (always changing/new)

Here’s a fabulous mobility dance break to help get you in the mood! for more check out www.niaondemand.com.

Beginning with the Nia 5 Stages class, which most often is described as a luxurious healing hour of setting the focus for the 10am movement experience that follows.

When you sign up for a class you are automatically sent the Zoom link for class.

You are welcome to attend either class.

And, when you’re able to attend both classes, something magic happens! The entire Nia 5 stages class is like a rich 60 minute introduction to the 10am Nia class, a beautiful compliment and super preparation.

In this gentle, self discovering, potentially healing Nia 5 stages experience

• your body gets to settle into and taste the Nia class focus

• your mind can learn new and novel information,

• your heart may open to receive more with fascination up and frustration down

• your spirit could be tickled and curious to experience more

Here’s a link to the Play list for class https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/nr-d-the-dance/pl.u-MDAWeL9uobW6N

“In the realm of existence,
where stories unfold,
Two gateways reside, precious and bold.
The jaw, a guardian of words untold,
The hips, a vessel of secrets yet to be sold.

Oh, the mighty jaw, with its power to speak,
A gateway to expressions, both gentle and sleek.
Through curved lips, melodies and stories take flight,
In language, it weaves realms of dawn and twilight.
With a simple word, love may leap and ignite,
Or bridges may crumble, darkness take its bite.

A portal through which ideas can be unveiled,
The jaw, oh majestic, where thoughts are hailed.
And behold the hips, a gateway to life,
Where dreams of creation dance, rife.
From whence existence begins, a sacred space,

A vessel through which beings enter with grace.
Through the curves and dips, life’s essence blooms,
A cradle of creation, where light resumes.
In rhythmic movements, fertility’s bliss,
The hips, oh enchanting, where life’s journey begins.
Jaw and hips, two portals so divine,

Gateways to secrets, both yours and mine.
Through spoken tales and life’s tender endeavor,
The jaw and hips, where magic we gather.
Let us cherish these gateways, gifts to explore,
To share our voices and life’s wonders encore.

For within them lies the power to ignite,
The stories of our souls,
shining so bright.”

— Jaw and Hips: Gateways of Life

Joy of Community: Monthly Cuppa, 11am August 14

Our “Monthly Monday Community Cuppa” event is a fun and nourishing part of our “2024 race Fundraiser for St Jude”

We get together, celebrate, connect and boost each other as we also boost our fundraiser. both in a GRAND way.

Next “Cuppa” is Monday, August 14th.

Yes! our “Monthly Monday Coffee” connections are WONDERFUL…

Every month, (most often) the first Monday, we meet up after 10am Nia class to connect, enjoy a cuppa and have a grand time.

Coffee, tea, kombucha, snacks and time to hang, get to know each other better, help and support.

This is one of our community events where 100% donations collected go towards St Jude, our “Soma Selected” charity of choice.

Our goal is to raise $8000 for St. Jude. We collect donations at our monthly “Monday Coffee Connection”, Soma Faith classes and Special Events throughout the year.

On Monday entertain 10am Nia Class, then connect with our lovely community with coffee, teas and snacks. We hope you can join us.

We have a great time listening to each other’s thoughts, challenges and successes. We provide support and offer prayers.

Consider enjoying a “double play” with

• 10:00am Nia

• 11:00am 1st Monday Cuppa

Thank you Nia White Belts

Dear Pleasant Hill, OR Nia White Belt graduates,

Thank you for all the joy, love and relaxation you brought to our experience.

Here’s all the photos I took along the way, I’ll leave them up on line LARGE format for the next week, feel free to download any you’d like to keep, and feel free to share them.

Also please complete this form to help us stay in touch.

Creativity and Boldness

Fellow Soma Rock Star Teacher, Natasha, has been participating in the “Fun Fridays” with Helen Terry for the past 18 months. Along the way Natasha has shifted from student to teacher within our 30 day challenge program, she brings a beautiful sparkle and exudes loving compassion for everybody in class. Within our team, on the continuum of form to freedom, Natasha tends to be the one who can learn a routine, embrace the details and be able to deliver a fabulously tight choreography in a wonderful relaxed way. Last Friday Natasha took a safe risk and boldly accepted the invitation to teach our Fun Friday class (where we encourage spontaneity, creativity and being in the flow of the moment).

Here’s how Natasha communicated in advance to set up and then manifest a gloriously fun Friday experience:

“I’m taking a leap tomorrow (Fun Friday) and I need your help!

Those who know my teaching style know that I love choreography. I usually teach classic Nia routines (Natasha style) or an adaptation of a classic routine to my own playlist.

Tomorrow I am going to step out of the box and teach an unprepared routine with the support of the 52 moves timer, and your help.

I have a playlist of all the songs that I have requested of Helen over the past 18 months on Fun Fridays. I have numbered the songs in the list and will be inviting those who arrive early to play a numbers game with me with a goal of creating a final 30 min(ish) playlist. I’ll then teach Base and Core “52” moves class.

I’d love to have you join me live tomorrow at 8am (CT). If possible, jump on in 10-15 mins early to help me create the playlist. Those who can’t make it will receive the recording as usual.”

— Let's dance! 😍 Natasha

Good job Natasha! we are honored to have you on our team and thank you for your many talents including the desire to grow and transform as a teacher and human being.

here’s the link to Natasha’s playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5r4oTWigd0EZn8GIuF7EFx?si=Z7HOdTvjR5KctFYWyv3X2A&utm_source=copy-link

Helen Terry and Kellie Chambers Step into a New Adventure of Co-Leading

Helen Terry and Kellie Chambers step into a New Adventure Co-leading the "Art of Sensation" Nia white belt. Something that has been in progress (and dreams) for more than 3 years. This will be Kellie's first training to lead and her local community are rallying around, keen to experience this beautiful retreat with her, supported by Helen.

Soma News: July 28, 2023

Happy Friday Soma Friend!

Now is a great time to sit back, relax, and enjoy our weekly newsletter.

Helen is back from the UK, looking forward to celebrating our month of sensation with ONLINE classes in the morning (Saturday)

• 8:45am 5 stages with focus X Ray Anatomy

• 10am Nia Sexi with focus X Ray Anatomy ~ the Art of Sensation with “Helen’s Mix”

Our Natural Time and DOOT experiences were relaxing and beyond expectations, we hope you can join us next year (July 24 - 26, 2024). Lovely to connect with friends from Houston, thank you Yvonne, Megan, Georgia and Crystal for driving up! And to be back dancing with our local community.

Our 30 day Challenge for the month of August features the focus "BASE". This is the beginning of a 3 month series that takes us through BASE, CORE, UPPER

Focus: Foundation, Steps & Stances

Intent: Ground, the hands that touch the earth

Today is the last day to have the opportunity to sign up and bring a friend for FREE!!

This monthly challenge program has evolved into an awesome community, with fabulous teachers. What started out as a grand experiment has developed into a wonderfully well working system with a superb team who encourage and inspire. Enjoy checking out what Natasha shares about “feeling the LOVE” and Paul shares his creativity genius

Have a fantastic weekend, and we hope to see y’all soon!

wishing you a great weekend

with love

Helen, Joe and all the fond 4 legged friends at Soma

DOOT Dance

Each year (for the past 28 years) Helen Terry has offered a DOOT Dance. This is a movement experience for the “Day Out of Time”. In the Natural Time Calendar this is the day, after a 13x28 day cycle = 364, before the next calendar year (of 364 days) begins.

The experience includes honoring the 4 directions (north, east, south, west) which correlate with the four colors (White, Red, Yellow Blue), an exploration of the 13 tones and the 20 tribes, weaving participants to connect with their color, tone, tribe and more. The conclusion is, after a creative movement experience, to have a felt sense of connection and community.

Here Helen walks you through how

1. how the studio was set up,

2. how folks online connected with participants in the room

3. how the class was constructed

X Ray Anatomy ~ The Art of Sensation

This Saturday Soma Ranch Co-Owner, Helen Terry, is teaching both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am class. Celebrating a sensational month, where our focus has been the sensations of movement: Flexibility, Agility, Mobility, Strength, Stability and Stillness, we will dance to a fun mixed playlist of songs Helen has curated to highlight the sensations. A fabulous class where the moves click with the music AND sensations to bring magic into our experience.

Helen Terry 8:45am Nia 5 Stages + 10am Nia (CT)

Helen is thrilled to be bringing a month of sensation to a beautiful conclusion…

• 8:45 Nia 5 Stages lesson X-Ray Anatomy

• 10am Nia class continues the theme of X-Ray Anatomy in relationship with the sensations of movement set to a fabulous “Helen Mix” of music

The concept of X-Ray Anatomy provides us with an opportunity to explore our body’s way of moving our 200+ bones through the tightening and loosening of our 700+ muscles.

.The intent will be to have a felt sense of all the sensations of movement vibrating through our bones and muscles

We would love for y’all to join us!

X-Ray Anatomy provides an opportunity to explore The Body’s Way and Your Body’s Way, perceive the difference and adjust our body so that we feel better. Our body is constantly tweaking and adjusting to maintain a Dynamic Postural Alignment. From looking, listening, learning and gaining an understanding of anatomy, we can then sense to re-align all parts of our body.

“We look at anatomy
to see how the body or body part is positioned,
then we sense it in our own bodies.”

— Nia 5 Stages

Classes with Helen Terry 8:45am + 10:00am (CT)

This class is ONLINE via Zoom and 24HR replay upon request. = 2 great choices:

1. online via Zoom and/or

2. Enjoy a 24 hour replay

Usual Class Rates apply: Drop in for $15, buy a class pass or consider signing up for the 30 Day Challenge 30 classes, 30 days $99 and receive the class as part of your package!

This movement experience is suitable for beginners and people of all different fitness backgrounds.

“From looking, listening, learning
and gaining an understanding of anatomy,
we can then sense
to re-align all parts of our body. ”

— Nia 5 Stages

In the Nia 5 Stages, you are invited to a place of sensitivity that enables you to observe and release the sensation of stress and embrace the sensations of Dynamic Ease, Pleasure, and comfort.

““Hi Movement Friends,

I’m looking forward to sharing both Nia 5 Stages and a sensational MIX of favorite moves and music with you this Saturday—a double feature!

Our Focus is X Ray Anatomy, the Art of Sensation,
with the Intent to receive a felt sense of all the sensations of movement vibrating through our bones and muscles

Love xoxo”

— Helen Terry

Key concepts

Anatomy: Bones, Muscles, Ligaments, Tendons

X Ray: Develop imagination and felt sense of body

FAMSSS: Flexibility, Agility, Mobility, Strength, Stability and Stillness

YBW: Your Body’s Way “the current design and function of your body” (always changing/new)

Here’s a fabulous mobility dance break to help get you in the mood! for more check out www.niaondemand.com.

Beginning with the Nia 5 Stages class, which most often is described as a luxurious healing hour of setting the focus for the 10am movement experience that follows.

“The Nia 5 Stages brings you to a place of sensitivity
that enables you to observe and release the
sensation of stress and embrace the sensations of
Dynamic Ease, Pleasure, and comfort.”

— Nia 5 Stages

When you sign up for a class you are automatically sent the Zoom link for class.

You are welcome to attend either class.

And, when you’re able to attend both classes, something magic happens! The entire Nia 5 stages class is like a rich 60 minute introduction to the 10am Nia class, a beautiful compliment and super preparation.

In this gentle, self discovering, potentially healing Nia 5 stages experience

• your body gets to settle into and taste the Nia class focus

• your mind can learn new and novel information,

• your heart may open to receive more with fascination up and frustration down

• your spirit could be tickled and curious to experience more

Here’s a link to the Play list for class https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/helens-mix-1-famsss/pl.u-06ovJgxu0xWK4. We used the 1st 14 songs today. Next time we’ll play with the rest!

Paul Duff Creativity Genius

Over the past few months Paul Duff has developed fabulous creativity, competence and confidence in his teaching. Some fabulous themes have evolved including the marvelous 52 moves, 30 minute shuffle.

The 52 moves shuffle is an experience where the songs (requested by folks signed up for the 30 day challenge) are put on shuffle AND the 52 moves of Nia (Base, Core and Upper) are also put on shuffle.

Paul teaches in the river of the unknown, bringing his experience and expertise of improvising with songs he knows, with some songs he doesn’t know, with Nia Moves he knows yet no preparation or control over what moves will come up next.

This experience is exceedingly collaborative, very LIVE and spontaneous yet also grounded and highly effective.

“I have 4 base related all request playlists I created for classes... you’re welcome to roll them for fun base related tunes”

— Paul Duff

52 Moves Base https://spotify.link/lsyb3NWKKBb

52 Moves Steps and Stances https://spotify.link/BgHawmZKKBb

52 Moves Behind and Underneath https://spotify.link/fhfsyM3KKBb

Paul Duff is teaching 3 classes during our 30 Day August Challenge:

1. Classic Nia 8/8

2. 52 Moves Shuffle 8/18

3. “Blue Monkey” 8/25

All Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday classes (including the above) are at 8am CT on Zoom, with a 24HR replay.

Feeling the Love

Today, Soma Nia Teacher, Natasha, taught our 8am 30 min class. Enjoy what Natasha shared after class, below. The words and photos sum up what has been evolving through our 2023 monthly 30 day challenge adventure.

What started out as a grand experiment has developed into a wonderfully well working system with a superb team who encourage and inspire.

“an incredibly talented and dedicated
group of movement teachers
who are serving a supportive, engaged, loving,
kind and caring community.
What’s not to love!”

— Helen Terry

Feeling the Love! 

I felt lit up, joy-filled and moved to dance with those who attended live today. I appreciate your participation, support and encouragement immensely.

It was extra entertaining to see Irene on rollerskates and Elaine dancing her heart out with her brother Bill. Playfulness to the max! 

Thank you to those who catch the recording. I hope you enjoy the class. Let us know how your experience goes! 

I hope yo see y'all back in Aug!

Huge hugs! 

Natasha ❤️

“I felt lit up, joy-filled and moved
to dance with those who attended live today.
I appreciate your participation,
support and encouragement immensely.

It was extra entertaining to see Irene on roller skates
and Elaine dancing her heart out with her brother Bill.
Playfulness to the max! ”

— Natasha Villeneuve (Soma Nia Teacher)

AUGUST Challenge of Foundational Movement

Each month for 2023 we feature a New Fun Challenge (See full list below).

For the month of August welcome to our focus of "BASE" (the beginning of a 3 month series that takes us through BASE, CORE, UPPER)

Focus: Foundation, Steps & Stances

Intent: Ground, the hands that touch the earth

Sign up: https://www.somaranch.com/booking/nia-challenge

All 30 classes are provided online via Zoom.

The August Challenge “The BASE” is all about the foundation of systemic movement. Providing you with classes that provide exploration of

1. steps, stances,

2. how to ground our body through our feet and

3. sense these incredible feet, sensing them as the hands that touch the earth.

Some class Foci will explore the essentials of Foundational BASE movement, for example

• Sense the stability of your feet as the firm foundation for the mobility of your body.

• Sense the 7,000 nerve endings in each foot like fascinating messengers who provide a wealth of fabulous information

• Sense the 3 arches of your feet (inner, outer, transverse)

• “Isolate to Integrate” sense the 3 part movement of your heel lead “ReLaX”

Other classes will explore duality and contrast between foundational principles, for example.

• Steps and Stances, sense the stillness of stances and the motion of steps becoming aware of the Body’s way of simultaneous stability and mobility of the body

• Sense how we step like “Dancing through life” and Stance like a “Living Meditation”

• Sense the relationship between your hip, knee and ankle joints

A month to help

• improve your competence and confidence of your base moves

• you understand more about the anatomy, biomechanics and structure of your Base

• feed your brain with new novel and fascinating information and experiences

• stimulate health and well being throughout your body and life

• provide balance and a holistic approach to fitness and movement

• enhance your dance with safety, comfort and pleasure

The “challenge” will provide a variety of modalities including Nia, Moving to Heal, Feldenkrais, Ageless Grace, 52 Moves, Move IT, offered by a stellar team of teachers, Helen Terry + Rock Stars and Special Guests. How to give gratitude for being able to move, feel vibrant, healthy and well, from an abundance of choice and variety.

Would you like to join us? Gain support and encouragement from a lovely welcoming community? Be inspired to develop a daily practice of self care through movement.

https://www.somaranch.com/booking/nia-challenge

When you sign up for the August 30 day challenge by July 28th you can bring a friend for FREE!

Receive 30 classes that include: 30 mins, 60 mins, Nia, Nia 5 Stages, Feldenkrais, Fabulous Rock Stars and Saturday Special guests.

Program includes Support, Coaching, Education, Community, Connection and lots of laughs along the way.

All for $99.

The Base of the Body include:

• Feet

• Ankles

• Knees

• Thighs

• Hip Joint

The 27 Base moves of Nia are:

A. Feet Techniques

1. Heal lead

2. whole foot

3. ball of foot

4. releve

5. rock around the clock

6. squish walk

7. duck walk

8. toes in, out, parallel

B. Stances

1. Closed Stance

2. Open Stance

3. A Stance

4. Sumo Stance

5. Bow Stance

6. Cat Stance

C. Steps

1. Sink and Pivot Table Wipe

2. Step back on the Ball of the Foot

3. Cross Front

4. Cross Behind

5. Travel in Directions

6. Lateral Travel

7. Cha Cha Cha

D. Kicks

1. Front Kick

2. Side Kick

3. Back Kick

4. Knee Sweep

When bringing a guest for free for the month thank you for completing the following form. The only information required is your Name and Email address, your Guest’s Name and Email address, and confirmation that your guest is new to the 30 day challenge. The other information is optional (helpful when available). Then scroll to the bottom and click submit.

Relaxing DOOT Day Retreat at Soma Ranch

A Relaxing Community Day Out of Time at Soma Ranch:

Take a look at all these photos and entertain how you could experience all of this in one day.

On the “Day out of Time”, July 25, come and experience the blissful tranquility of Soma Ranch, a serene oasis nestled amidst nature's embrace here in Montgomery, TX. Engage in a rejuvenating community day where the worries of the world melt away, leaving only a sense of peace in your heart. With an array of activities to indulge in, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Plenty of time and space, with OPTIONs, to allow you to cater your perfect Day retreat according to your body’s way and heart’s desires.

Start your day off with a tranquil hike in the local countryside (perhaps Sam Houston National Forrest) . Feel the stress ebb away as you dance your body and calm your mind in the serene Nia studio. Enjoy joyful guidance through a series of gentle systemic movements, helping you find your inner balance within the inspiring surroundings.

After Nia, take a leisurely stroll through the green pastures of Soma Ranch. Breathe in the crisp country air as you enjoy the company of friendly donkeys and the soothing sounds of nature. Allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty that surrounds you, finding solace in the simplicity of the natural world.

As the midday approaches indulge in a delicious and nutritious farm-to-table lunch. Savor the flavors of locally sourced ingredients, nourishing your body with wholesome food that is as good for your taste buds as it is for your well-being. Share stories and laughter with fellow community members, creating cherished connections over a shared meal.

In the afternoon, choose from a variety of activities that cater to your interests. Dive into the sparkling pool, enjoying a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. For those seeking a more introspective experience, find a shady spot on the porch or under the trees and lose yourself in a captivating book from our expansive library.

As the day progresses, join in an interactive Natural Time workshop. Expand your knowledge by delving into topics such as natural time, tracking 28 day cycles and how to become creative with routines in relationship with time. Take a trip over to Lake Conroe for boating with the option of wakeboard surfing and/or paddle-boarding. Then end the afternoon with a fun Nia JAM class (teaching a song is an option for EVERYBODY!). All while fostering a sense of community with like-minded individuals on a similar journey of self-discovery.

As evening descends upon Soma Ranch, after a scrumptous dinner, gather around a crackling bonfire under the vast Texas sky for s’mores. Engage in heartfelt conversations, sharing stories and experiences that connect us as human beings. Feel the warmth of the fire in your soul as you build lasting connections

Soma News: July 21, 2023

Happy Friday Soma Friend!

Now is a great time to sit back, relax, and enjoy our weekly newsletter.

Helen, who’s been visiting her Mum (who’s recovering from Hip Surgery) in the UK (check out fun photos of this dynamic due team teaching class with fabulous adaptations), is offering 3 Options ONLINE this Saturday

• 8:45am 5 stages with focus 3 planes of movement and Levels of Intensity

• 10am Nia Sexi with focus Horizontal and Vertical Flow

• 12pm Natural Time DOOT Playshop

Helen then returns to Soma Ranch, Texas, ready to continue Day Out of Time Celebrations:

• Monday 7/24 10am Day Out of Time DANCE (ONLINE and In Person at Soma Ranch)

• Tuesday 7/25 Annual Blue Electric Storm Day Retreat (at Soma Ranch with Sam Houston Park Hiking and Lake Conroe Boating options)

Even if you’re unable to attend in person, we hope our suggested journey through the day, via photos and description below, helps entertain you and provide a little insight into what’s happening at Soma Ranch.

Have a fantastic weekend, and we hope to see y’all soon!

wishing you a great weekend

with love

Helen, Joe and all the fond 4 legged friends at Soma

Sensational Horizontal and Vertical Flow

This Saturday Soma Ranch Co-Owner, Helen Terry, is teaching both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am. Getting excited about our Day Out of Time (which includes a lovely hike and hopefully surfing on Lake Conroe) we could’t help our elves with the photos this week!)

Helen Terry 8:45am Nia 5 Stages and 10am Nia (CT)

Helen is thrilled to be initiating our series of “Day Out of Time” special events, celebrating the Natural Time New year (July 25) with the class focus horizontal and vertical flow this Saturday.

• 8:45 Nia 5 Stages lesson Horizontal & Vertical Flow

• 10am Nia class will continue this focus Horizontal & Vertical Flow with the Nia Routine Sexi.

The concept of Horizontal & Vertical Flow provides us with an opportunity to explore our body’s way through the choice of 3 levels (1, 2 3) and 3 planes (low, middle, high)

.The intent will be to have a felt sense of the flow of movements ups and downs and ins and outs.

We would love for y’all to join us!

“The Three Planes - Low, Middle and High - are what you naturally go through to stand up. From Nia’s perspective, and from The Body’s Way, if that is what the body does to learn how to stand up, it makes sense to keep going back through the Low, Middle and High Planes to keep our body conditioned and youthful”

— Nia 5 Stages

Horizontal and Vertical Flow with Nia Routine Sexi

This class is ONLINE via Zoom and 24HR replay upon request. = 2 great choices:

1. online via Zoom and/or

2. Enjoy a 24 hour replay

Usual Class Rates apply: Drop in for $15, buy a class pass or consider signing up for the 30 Day Challenge 30 classes, 30 days $99 and receive the class as part of your package!

This movement experience is suitable for beginners and people of all different fitness backgrounds.

“When the Hara is closer to the ground, the sensory nerves get a message of greater relaxation. As the Hara gets higher up off the ground, the nervous system is put on higher alert. Also, when the belly is down, the body is more relaxed than belly up.”

— Nia 5 Stages

In the Nia 5 Stages, you are invited to a place of sensitivity that enables you to observe and release the sensation of stress and embrace the sensations of Dynamic Ease, Pleasure, and comfort.

““Hi Movement Friends,

I’m looking forward to sharing both Nia 5 Stages and the Nia body of work “Sexi” with you all this Saturday—a double feature!

Our Focus is Horizontal and Vertical Flow with the Intent to sense the different planes of movement (Low, Middle, High) whilst personalizing (Levels 1,2,3)

Love xoxo”

— Helen Terry

Key concepts

Horizontal Flow: Levels 1, 2, 3

Vertical Flow: Planes Low, Middle, High

CPT: Conscious Personal Trainer

YBW: Your Body’s Way “the current design and function of your body” (always changing/new)

Here’s a fabulous mobility dance break to help get you in the mood! for more check out www.niaondemand.com.

Beginning with the Nia 5 Stages class, which most often is described as a luxurious healing hour of setting the focus for the 10am movement experience that follows.

“The Nia 5 Stages brings you to a place of sensitivity
that enables you to observe and release the
sensation of stress and embrace the sensations of
Dynamic Ease, Pleasure, and comfort.”

— Nia 5 Stages

When you sign up for a class you are automatically sent the Zoom link for class.

You are welcome to attend either class.

And, when you’re able to attend both classes, something magic happens! The entire Nia 5 stages class is like a rich 60 minute introduction to the 10am Nia class, a beautiful compliment and super preparation.

In this gentle, self discovering, potentially healing Nia 5 stages experience

• your body gets to settle into and taste the Nia class focus

• your mind can learn new and novel information,

• your heart may open to receive more with fascination up and frustration down

• your spirit could be tickled and curious to experience more

Here’s a link to the Play list for class https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/nr-c-sexi/pl.u-qxyllZMTWy2EN

https://youtu.be/aoV10HGLiYg

7/22 Natural Time Workshop

The concept of Natural Time New Year is an invitation to shift our perspective and align ourselves with the rhythms of nature. Unlike the traditional calendar-based New Year, Natural Time New Year is not bound by a specific date but rather by the cycles of the Earth. It encourages us to attune to the changing seasons, the waxing and waning of the moon, and the natural ebb and flow of life.

Embracing this approach can profoundly transform our lives as we learn to live in harmony with nature's wisdom. By surrendering to the natural rhythms, we gain a deeper sense of connection to the world around us and a newfound appreciation for the present moment. This change in perspective allows us to let go of hustle and embrace a more sustainable pace of life.

With Natural Time New Year, we tap into a timeless wisdom that helps us navigate life with more grace, intention, and joy. We hope you can join us in this interactive workshop ONLINE via Zoom this coming weekend.

Sale

Natural Time Saturday PlayShop + Monday Class

from $15.00

Happy Natural Time New Year!! Experiential Natural Time Playshop (with a little dance at the end!) and/or DOOT (Day Out Of Time) Dance.

The Saturday PLAYSHOP is available ONLINE LIVE via zoom and via a 3 day REPLAY.

The Monday DOOT Dance is HYBRID, attend In Person at Soma Ranch OR ONLINE/24Hr REPLAY

Natural Time Playshop

Saturday, July 22, 12:00 - 2:00 pm (Central Time) $40 ($30 early bird when you sign up by THURSDAY)

Enjoy an ONLINE LIVE and/or 3 Day Replay Playshop with Helen Terry.

Let's connect and celebrate Natural Time and all the joys of living an alive, fully vibrant life!

Natural Time is a great opportunity to simplify, relieve stress, encourage creativity and flow into your day.

Learn about the 13 moon natural time calendar and how to follow the Natural Time Calendar

• read/follow the calendar

• apply the calendar in your life

• decode your galactic signature

• create a 260 day, daily meditation

Natural Time Class

Monday, July 24, 10:00 - 11:00am $15

Dance to celebrate time, with a fun filled playlist and community inspired choreography. The movement experience will include

• honoring the 4 directions

• celebrating uniqueness

• recognizing connections

• jubilating unity

• choosing, sustaining and increasing joy individually and collectively

More information available and buy a calendar at www.13moon.com

Choose:

Select Choose Natural Time Playshop $30/40 Natural Time Class $15 Natural Time Combo $40/50

Buy Now

7/24 Natural Time Day out of Time Dance

This Monday July 24, 10 - 11am, we will be dancing to celebrate natural time. This movement experience includes

• listening to our body’s way and personal timing

• making choices for self love and self care

• honor, recognize and acknowledge the 4 directions

• become aware of time and space within our body and the space around us

• fun playlist with tunes that connect with sensational times

The concept of Natural Time New Year is an invitation to shift our perspective and align ourselves with the rhythms of nature. Unlike the traditional calendar-based New Year, Natural Time New Year is not bound by a specific date but rather by the cycles of the Earth. It encourages us to attune to the changing seasons, the waxing and waning of the moon, and the natural ebb and flow of life. 

Embracing this approach can profoundly transform our lives as we learn to live in harmony with nature's wisdom. By surrendering to the natural rhythms, we gain a deeper sense of connection to the world around us and a newfound appreciation for the present moment. This change in perspective allows us to let go of hustle and embrace a more sustainable pace of life. 

With Natural Time New Year, we tap into a timeless wisdom that helps us navigate life with more grace, intention, and joy. We hope you can join us, here’s your options:

1. Day Out of Time WORKSHOP Saturday 7/22 12 - 2pm ONLINE via Zoom with 24HR replay

2. Day Out Of Time CLASS Monday 7/24 10 - 11am In Person, ONLINE via Zoom with 24HR replay

3. Day Out of Time DAY Tuesday 7/25 6:30am - 8:30pm (arrive late, leave early as need be)

Here’s the playlist from our DOOT class

and here is the 5 hours of fabulous suggested for the Day Out of Time Theme

7/25 Natural Time Day Out Of Time DOOT Day

We’ve shifted gears and created a fabulous Day Out Of Time DOOT Day, Tuesday, July 25, 2023, and would love you to join us. This fabulous DOOT day includes Breakfast Lunch and Dinner at Soma, relaxing time at the ranch (swim, sauna, hot tub, cold plunge, donkeys, fish, relax!), Nia Class with Helen Terry, Natural Time Playshop, opportunity to boat (possibly water surf) paddle board, a Nia jam and s’mores by the campfire!

Enjoy a ” Day out of Time” at our annual BES retreat. At this 18th Annual event we celebrate Natural Time and all the joys of living an alive, connected, fully vibrant life!

$130 early bird price through July 22. $200 after July 22.

Blue Electric Storm DAY OUT OF TIME

This Fun and Fabulous Day with Helen at Soma Ranch and Lake Conroe, includes

• Nia class ChakraDancer

• Natural Time Workshop + Movement Experience

• Guided Meditation

• Boat Ride on Lake Conroe

• Hike in the National Forrest

• Walk a Labyrinth

• Time to swim, sauna, hot tub under the stars

• S'mores by bonfire

• Paddle Board/Kayak on Lake Conroe
  Nia JAM with teachers from our group and local area!

Availability is limited. 

Sign up NOW to avoid disappointment. 

The concept of Natural Time New Year is an invitation to shift our perspective and align ourselves with the rhythms of nature. Unlike the traditional calendar-based New Year, Natural Time New Year is not bound by a specific date but rather by the cycles of the Earth. It encourages us to attune to the changing seasons, the waxing and waning of the moon, and the natural ebb and flow of life.

Embracing this approach can profoundly transform our lives as we learn to live in harmony with nature's wisdom. By surrendering to the natural rhythms, we gain a deeper sense of connection to the world around us and a newfound appreciation for the present moment. This change in perspective allows us to let go of hustle and embrace a more sustainable pace of life.

With Natural Time New Year, we tap into a timeless wisdom that helps us navigate life with more grace, intention, and joy. We hope you can join us, here’s your options:

1. Day Out of Time WORKSHOP Saturday 7/22 12 - 2pm ONLINE via Zoom with 24HR replay

2. Day Out Of Time CLASS Monday 7/24 10 - 11am In Person, ONLINE via Zoom with 24HR replay

3. Day Out of Time DAY Tuesday 7/25 6:30am - 8:30pm (arrive late, leave early as need be)

Sale

Natural Time Saturday PlayShop + Monday Class

from $15.00

Happy Natural Time New Year!! Experiential Natural Time Playshop (with a little dance at the end!) and/or DOOT (Day Out Of Time) Dance.

The Saturday PLAYSHOP is available ONLINE LIVE via zoom and via a 3 day REPLAY.

The Monday DOOT Dance is HYBRID, attend In Person at Soma Ranch OR ONLINE/24Hr REPLAY

Natural Time Playshop

Saturday, July 22, 12:00 - 2:00 pm (Central Time) $40 ($30 early bird when you sign up by THURSDAY)

Enjoy an ONLINE LIVE and/or 3 Day Replay Playshop with Helen Terry.

Let's connect and celebrate Natural Time and all the joys of living an alive, fully vibrant life!

Natural Time is a great opportunity to simplify, relieve stress, encourage creativity and flow into your day.

Learn about the 13 moon natural time calendar and how to follow the Natural Time Calendar

• read/follow the calendar

• apply the calendar in your life

• decode your galactic signature

• create a 260 day, daily meditation

Natural Time Class

Monday, July 24, 10:00 - 11:00am $15

Dance to celebrate time, with a fun filled playlist and community inspired choreography. The movement experience will include

• honoring the 4 directions

• celebrating uniqueness

• recognizing connections

• jubilating unity

• choosing, sustaining and increasing joy individually and collectively

More information available and buy a calendar at www.13moon.com

Choose:

Select Choose Natural Time Playshop $30/40 Natural Time Class $15 Natural Time Combo $40/50

Buy Now

Feeling Fabulously Technical

Today I joyfully (and thankfully) was able to
1. teach my Nia class ONLINE with the 30 day movement challengers around the world
2. dance with my mum, in her kitchen and
3. teach/be with the local Montgomery ladies at Soma Ranch (through the big screen/sound system + fabulous technical help from my husband Joe Terry)
S I M U L T A N E O U S L Y!!!

I was using only my laptop (couldn't bring my "spaghetti" set up of mixers, wires, head set, remote mic, powered speakers with me). In advance settings I was able to share my music directly from the laptop into the zoom platform. Then, with one Airpod in my ear, and the other in Mum's, we were both able to dance to the music and I was able to use my (one) Airpod as my mic, bluetoothed into my lap top = great sound!! thanks zoom!

#feelingfabulouslytechnical