2023 in 2023

This past week I achieved my 1600 mile marker in paradise on St. John, U.S. Virgin Islandsโ€‹. I'm more on target towards running the year: 2023 miles in 2023 than ever before. (this is the 8th year I've run the year!.

This was all whilst enjoying a full 7 day PURE vacation (no work, no Nia, NO work/Nia talk, no family (though I love them....) - 100% all FUN WITH FRIENDS. (something I cannot remember experiencing in 30+ years).

This experience, time away from home, away from work has been a remarkable opportunity to reassess who I am, what I'm designed for, how to live my God given purpose with confidence, success and joy.

Watch out world I'm retuning recharged, inspired and ferociously determined to sustain this felt sense of wellness and sheer joy..... #runtheyear

Pelvis, Chest, Head

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

Launching our September month, where our focus is the CORE of movement:Pelvis, Chest, Head, Spine, Chakras. We will dance to a โ€œHelen Originalโ€ called โ€œQueen Latifahโ€. The music is by Queen Latifah with a couple of special guest appearances by Santana.

A fabulous class where we explore the relationship between the pelvis, chest and head, with the intent to mobilize our spine.

โ€œWe look at anatomy
to see how the body or body part is positioned,
then we sense it in our own bodies.โ€
— 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.

โ€œFrom looking, listening, learning
and gaining an understanding of anatomy,
we can then sense
to re-align all parts of our body. โ€
— 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.

Key concepts

Anatomy: Bones, Muscles, Ligaments, Tendons

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

YBW: Your Bodyโ€™s Way โ€œthe current design and function of your bodyโ€ (always changing/new)

Hereโ€™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.

Receive Link for Class

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 youโ€™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

Request 24HR Replay
sign up for the 30 day challenge

Soma News: September 1, 2023

Happy Friday and Happy new Month Soma Friend!

Iโ€™ml literally typing as fast as I can before jumping on a ferry boat to head home from the Virgin Islands after a fabulous weekโ€™s vacation. Thank you for all teachers โ€œback at the ranchโ€ (local and virtual) who lead classes: This Saturday Iโ€™m back looking forward to dancing โ€œQueen Latifahโ€ with CORE focus) tomorrow morning ONLINE classes in the morning

Weโ€™re in a series that takes us through BASE, CORE, UPPER. Enrollment is now open for the month of September.

We are having an incredible time in our in person and online classes, thanks to an incredible team of talented teachers. Hereโ€™s a little taste of our collaborative spirit, as Helen and Rock Star Soma Teacher, Paul Duff, enjoy a conversation reflecting where weโ€™ve been, enjoying where we are, and celebrating whatโ€™s to look forward to.

Save the date! our 14th Soma Birthday is coming up in September, choose to attend a class, retreat and or Nia 5 Stages training. There will be cake!

Have a fantastic weekend, and we hope to see yโ€™all soon!

with love

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

Congratulations Gigi

Congratulations to Gigi on teaching her first class at Soma Ranch! Welcome to the team!! She did a fabulous job, inspiring and guiding our Soma students with grace and expertise. The community, both near and far, rallied around Gigi, providing unwavering support, praise, and encouragement.

From local residents attending her class at Soma, to virtual participants from different corners of the world, joining in via Zoom, the outpouring of love and support was truly magical. This incredible display of community spirit, beautifully reinforces the inclusive and nurturing environment that Soma Ranch fosters. Lovely to witness dancers from all over displayed on the โ€œwall of smilesโ€ - via our cinematic projector that shines online participants LARGE on the side wall of the studio.

Gigi's successful debut is a testament to her dedication and the incredible impact she's already making, leaving us all eagerly awaiting her future classes. Gigi plans to be teaching 1-2 times a month at Soma Ranch.

Like many of us teachers can remember and empathize, Gigi shared how much more of a workout teaching a class is compared to taking. She did an incredible job with excellent preparation, grounded delivery, great focus that was sustained through the experience, she was โ€œtight but looseโ€ = provided excellent choreography, with her own flair and APPEARED to be super relaxed and full of joy.

Learn more about 30 day challenge
โ€œAmazing class today @Gigi Greene !
You are such a beautiful mover.

Your movement flows with such gratefulness and ease.
If I did not know it was your first class at Soma,
I would have thought you were a regular teacher.
So well done! ๐Ÿฅฐโ€
— Natasha Villeneuve, Fellow Soma Teacher

A lovely sign of community, care and creativityโ€ฆ

Gigi brought home made sour dough bread for the participants with the promise โ€œIโ€™ll bring Gluten free for those who prefer it next week!โ€.

Regular participant Cathey exclaimed โ€œShe made us bread!โ€

โ€œCongrats Gigi Greene.
Such delicious and easy yo follow queuing.
I find your voice very calm and soothing!!
Bravo on mastering the spaghetti
& the wall of smiles!!!
You rock! ๐Ÿ’–โ€
— Elaine Dunphy
 

Vacation Joys

Here I am on St Johns Island, US Virgin Islands, enjoying a much needed and deserved vacation. I feel incredibly blessed by a team of talented teachers who have covered classes during my absense.

Please welcome Gigi who will be teaching her first class at Soma Ranch this Thursday at 10am. The Team will be launching our new month challenge with a 30 min 8am class on Friday.

Then I (Helen) will be back to lead classes on Saturday refreshed and eager to re-connect with you through online classes 8:45am Nia 5 Stages and 10:00am Nia Class.

In the light of the full moon

Hereโ€™s some โ€˜In the light of the full moonโ€ inspirational music. Iโ€™ve fallen in love with this full moon chant by Heather Houston, (thank you Herb Ruplinger for the recommendation) and created what I call a โ€œsandwichโ€ Playlist, the experience begins and ends with the chant and is book end by 2 versions of one of my favorite moon songs โ€œBlue Moonโ€

The first hour works well as a 60 minute movement practice, whether this be Nia, Dancing Freely, Yoga or your own kinda vibeโ€ฆ. for me Iโ€™ll be running to this playlist, the following songs are simply great extended options.

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/nr-h-fullmoon/pl.u-r2yJldBtmVPBy

Full Moon Play list
โ€œIn the light of the full moon I am love
Offering my prayers to rise above
The thoughts and the fears that hold me down
From thriving on this earth
As she spins around

In the light of the full moon I am peace
Offering my heart to be released
From the things that no longer serve my soul
Knowing now that I am whole

ยฉ Heather Houston
โ€
— https://heatherhoustonmusic.com/song/full-moon-chant-by-heather-houston/

MOONwise

Enjoy this inspirational poem about the full moon by EmilyJane Mockett a wonderful regular guest at Soma Ranch who feels more like family.

EmilyJane is an interfaith interspiritual minister committing her lifetime to creative life affirming actions for a world of Loving Unity and Joy for the Sacred diversity of Aliveness.

She uses poetry, movement and art as prayer to build holy bridges of connection. She considers conversations with her dog at the edge of the sea one of her foundational spirtual practices of presence. Hereโ€™s her link: https://www.spiralsofhealing.org/blog-3-1

 
โ€œMOONwise

Softer light of quiet hour
Luminous creep into my vision
Wakes me from my sleep;
From dreams I have yet to envision

Subtly of bright reflectionย ย 
In Her waxing or waning dance
Reminds me that I too carry
My own elusive radianceย 

Cycles of emergence
Times of drawing in small
Upswells of more energy
Yet Wholeness under it all

What will I remember
When louder light awakes?
From the wisdom chat with moon
All my night intuition quakesโ€
— EmilyJane Mockett
Learn more

In August, a second full Moon, a Blue Moon will make an appearance. The term Blue Moon is most commonly used when we have two full Moons in a single month. On Wednesday, August 30, the Full Moon will peak at 9:36 P.M. 

This Full Moon is also a โ€œSupermoon.โ€ In fact, itโ€™s the closest Supermoon of 2023. โ€œSupermoonโ€ is a catchy term for what astronomers call โ€œa perigean full Moonโ€ which is when the full Moon happens at or near its closest point to Earth in its oval-shaped orbit. 

Itโ€™s exceptionally close in Moon miles from Earth (222,043 miles). The next time weโ€™ll have a closer full Supermoon is November 5, 2025, when the moon lies 221,817 miles from Earth.

A supermoon exceeds the disk size of an average-sized Moon by up to 8% and the brightness of an average-sized full Moon by some 16%. You may not perceive the difference in size, but a supermoon will appear brighter in the sky. 

A Supermoon can also cause higher tides than usual.

The August full moon, also known as the Sturgeon Moon, casts a mesmerizing glow across the summer night sky. As the moon reaches its peak, it illuminates the world with its ethereal brilliance, inviting us to pause and appreciate the natural wonders around us.

The Sturgeon Moon derives its name from the abundance of sturgeon fish found in the rivers during this month. It symbolizes abundance, growth, and transformation. Under the August full moon, one cannot help but feel a sense of awe and wonder, as if nature herself is whispering secrets in the moonlit breeze. It is a magical time to reflect, set intentions, and embrace the beauty of the cosmos.

Soma News: August 25, 2023

Happy Friday Soma Friend!

We hope you are well. We have enjoyed a week of celebration here at Soma Ranch with Helen & Joeโ€™s 30th Wedding Anniversary.

Soma Ranch is a physical manifestation of the unique talents, skills, experience and grit that this couple bring together. Joe is the culinary + carpentry genius, who also takes care of all things outdoors at Soma (pool, animals, fences, pastures etc). Helen is the experience + movement education guide, who also manages the business, including all things event planning, teaching, communication, finance, marketing, social media

Helen is off to the Virgin Islands for a weekโ€™s vacation. Meanwhile โ€œback at the ranchโ€ big thanks to the team (local and virtual) who are leading classes: This Saturday Maria is looking forward to dancing โ€œCureโ€ tomorrow morning ONLINE classes in the morning

  • 8:45am 5 stages with focus Psoas and Stances

Next weekโ€™s classes are lead by:

Our 30 day Challenge for the month of August with the feature "BASE" has been a blast. Now is a great time to consider registering for September CORE, especially as, when you sign up by August 28th you get to bring a friend for free. That is the 2 of you can each enjoy 30 classes, with 24HR replays sent to your inbox every day, for only $99. Weโ€™re in a series that takes us through BASE, CORE, UPPER. Enrollment is now open for the month of September.

We are having an incredible time in our in person and online classes, thanks to an incredible team of talented teachers. Hereโ€™s a little taste of our collaborative spirit, as Helen and Rock Star Soma Teacher, Paul Duff, enjoy a conversation reflecting where weโ€™ve been, enjoying where we are, and celebrating whatโ€™s to look forward to.

Thank you Soma Sistas for how you help sustain our in person classes here at Soma Ranch, and special thanks to Diana (who renewed annual unlimited classes), and Becki (who signed up for the next year).

Save the date! our 14th Soma Birthday is coming up in September, choose to attend a class, retreat and or Nia 5 Stages training. There will be cake!

Have a fantastic weekend, and we hope to see yโ€™all soon!

with love

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

Soma Conversations: Celebrating Collaboration

We are having an incredible time in our in person and online classes, thanks to an incredible team of talented teachers. 

Hereโ€™s a little taste of our collaborative spirit, as Helen Terry and Rock Star Soma Teacher, Paul Duff, enjoy a conversation reflecting where weโ€™ve been, enjoying where we are, and celebrating whatโ€™s to look forward to.

Now is a fabulous time to consider registering for our September 30 day challenge, with the focus Core. This will include featuring the 7 Core moves of Nia, the 7 energy centers called Chakras and some curious creative fun times, like our "Fun Friday Cornyโ€ experience

Learn more about September challenge

Psoas and Stances Saturday

This Saturday, Soma Supa Star teacher Maria Whitley teaches both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am class.

Completing our foundational month, with the focus on the base of the body, foundational fundamentals, we will dance to the Nia experience โ€œCureโ€.

Maria is thrilled to be bringing a month of foundational moves to a beautiful conclusionโ€ฆ

  • 8:45 Nia 5 Stages lesson Psoas + Stances

  • 10am Nia class continues the theme of Psoas + Stances with Nia Routine Cure.

We would love for yโ€™all to join us!

โ€œโ€œHi Movement Friends,

I know it sounds like a good band name ...
but itโ€™s really the Focus of tomorrowโ€™s 5Stages class...
Psoas & the Stances!!!

Join me for an hour of self-healing
and then weโ€™ll dance CURE
and continue to play with
Psoas as we Walk-Step-Dance
our way to a WHOLE BODY YES!!!

I hope to see you in the Zoom Room! โœจโ€
— Maria Whitley
 

Classes with Maria Whitley 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.

โ€œFrom looking, listening, learning
and gaining an understanding of anatomy,
we can then sense
to re-align all parts of our body. โ€
— 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.

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.

โ€œThe 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.โ€
— Nia 5 Stages
Receive Link for Class

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 youโ€™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

Request 24HR Replay
sign up for the 30 day challenge
โ€œWe look at anatomy
to see how the body or body part is positioned,
then we sense it in our own bodies.โ€
— Nia 5 Stages

30 years Celebration for Soma Ranch Owners

Soma Ranch co-owners, Helen & Joe Terry, celebrate their 30th Wedding Anniversary this week. โ€œWe were giggling at how a driverโ€™s license requires a renewal after a certain number of years, where as a marriage license does not!

This year we choose to renew our marriage license for another 30 years and hope we can enjoy the next 3 decades with health, happiness and fabulous times sharedโ€

โ€œโ€œwhen your shirts are separate
they donโ€™t make sense,
yet when together they do!โ€โ€
— Lesa Walker

Helen and Joe, the co-owners of Soma Ranch, are not only celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary but also reflecting on their remarkable journey as co-business partners. The synergy between these two is awe-inspiring, as they have effortlessly blended their individual strengths to create a harmonious work environment at Soma Ranch. Joeโ€™s creative flair and keen eye for design perfectly complement Helenโ€™s strategic thinking and practical decision-making skills. Together, they have masterfully crafted and continuously improved Soma Ranch, ensuring that every detail reflects their shared vision. Their deep love and mutual respect are evident in the way they collaborate with one another, (almost ;-) always listening attentively and valuing each other's input.

Helen and Joe's seamless partnership forms the very foundation of Soma Ranch's success, making it a special place where guests can truly unwind and reconnect with themselves.

Soma Ranch is a physical manifestation of the unique talents, skills, experience and grit that this couple bring together. Joe is the culinary + carpentry genius, who also takes care of all things outdoors at Soma (pool, animals, fences, pastures etc). Helen is the experience + movement education guide, who also manages the business, including all things event planning, teaching, communication, finance, marketing, social media

Thank you Soma Sista Becki

Thank you Becki for joining the โ€œSoma Sistasโ€. We appreciate how you have become a regular attendee of our movement classes at Soma Ranch, lovely how you share the experience as you bring friends and we appreciate your kind support.

Becki met Helen at the Conroe Yoga Room, where Helen was teaching a fusion Nia /Yoga experience. When the Yoga Room studio closed down during the pandemic, Becki kept in touch, began to drop in to classes at Soma Ranch, then bought a few punch passes, now sheโ€™s decided the year unlimited is her best option.

Becki appreciates the ONLINE + 24 HR replay options when she travels - which is often!

โ€œHelen and Joe have created a haven of peace and joy at Soma and a tribe of beautiful people has grown up within it.ย โ€
— Becki K

Fitness workouts have been a part of my life since I was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12. My doctor looked me straight in the eyes and said โ€œyou must exercise every single day or you will be in a wheel chair by the age of 30.โ€  

When I first tried Nia 4 years ago, in that 1st class, I experienced the workout, AND THE RELEASE, of all the muscles surrounding my spine. Nia makes a solid difference in my mobility and helps me maintain a very low pain threshold. It teaches through mind, body and soul, sculpting awareness and response through a fit vessel. 

Although not a fan of my 40 minute drive each way, nor doing classes online, I recognize the difference Nia makes in my overall health and well being. I love the space and am growing very fond of the people. Helen makes the online classes fun and easy when my need arisesโ€ฆ

โ€œThe music is therapy! Uplifting, motivating, at times even soul searching. There is a lot of laughter and smiles. Love it.ย โ€
— Becki K

Thank you Soma Sistas

Amy, Becki, Bonnie

CatheyChris, Cynthia

Deana, Diana, Darlene

Kay, Jessica, Laura

Megan, Monica, Peggy

There is a core group of fabulous women here at Soma Ranch who sign up for the year unlimited classes with Helen. Their commitment, regular attendance and support is appreciated and enjoyed immensely.

Learn more
โ€œOften I seriously wonder if I would continue to teach classes if not for this amazing core group of women who show up, fill me up, support and sustain me. โ€
— Helen Terry, Soma Ranch
Soma Class Rates
from $20.00
  • $20 | 1 class

  • $75 | 5 class pass (3 month expiration) ($15 per class)

  • $130 | 10 class pass (3 month expiration) ($13 per class)

  • $99 | 30 Day Journey, 30 Classes, ALL 8am + 10am ($3.30 per class)

  • $75 | Day Retreat(click for more Info)

  • $25 | Lunch or Dinner

  • $96 | 60 min massage

  • $145 | 90 min massage

30 Day Challenge Benefits:

  1. unlimited 10am + 8am Nia Classes for 30 days

  2. bring a โ€œnew to the journeyโ€ friend to class for a month

  3. enjoy before and after class conversations and nuggets

  4. receive automatic 24HR replays via email

Thank you Soma Sista Diana

Thank you Diana for renewing this month. We appreciate how you show you and support our program here at Soma Ranch. (weโ€™ll have to come up with a revised title for this group if a guy signs up)

Having lived in Montgomery Texas for decades, Diana was looking for a yoga class in the area. When she put โ€œyoga montgomeryโ€ in the google search up popped Soma Ranch as the top option and the rest is history.

Diana attended a YogaFaith class with Chris Disser, and we encouraged her to stay to watch or experience the Nia movement dance class that followed. Diana is one of those โ€œlove at first sightโ€ students. Sheโ€™s been coming to dance on a regular basis ever since.

Diana, we are incredibly glad you found us, how you stepped in with 2 feet and how you keep showing up. Thank you for your support, for being an integral member of our community and much more, including vigorous and often entertaining conversations at our monthly Community Cuppas.

โ€œ I am beginning my third year at Soma Ranch and have always signed up for the unlimited classes.

Each year when deciding how to affiliate with Soma I am convinced that unlimited is the way I should go.

The commitment I make is most likely to keep me attending as often as it is possible.

Any other choice and I believe I would be working against my goal, which is to move as much as possible each day.โ€
— Diana Anderson

Thank you Soma Sistas

Amy, Becki, Bonnie

CatheyChris, Cynthia

Deana, Diana, Darlene

Kay, Jessica, Laura

Megan, Monica, Peggy

Learn more
โ€œOften I seriously wonder if I would continue to teach classes if not for this amazing core group of women who show up, fill me up, support and sustain me. โ€
— Helen Terry, Soma Ranch
Soma Class Rates
from $20.00
  • $20 | 1 class

  • $75 | 5 class pass (3 month expiration) ($15 per class)

  • $130 | 10 class pass (3 month expiration) ($13 per class)

  • $99 | 30 Day Journey, 30 Classes, ALL 8am + 10am ($3.30 per class)

  • $75 | Day Retreat(click for more Info)

  • $25 | Lunch or Dinner

  • $96 | 60 min massage

  • $145 | 90 min massage

30 Day Challenge Benefits:

  1. unlimited 10am + 8am Nia Classes for 30 days

  2. bring a โ€œnew to the journeyโ€ friend to class for a month

  3. enjoy before and after class conversations and nuggets

  4. receive automatic 24HR replays via email

Confidence, Competence, Creativity

Paul Duff began, as a member of our Rock Star Soma Teaching team, a few short months ago, in January.

As Paul continues to bring a phenomenal, full of heart, movement guidance to his class, we are experiencing joy in witnessing his evolution into excellence as a teacher.

Paul has crafted a 52 moves shuffle in 30 minutes which brings a perfect balance of form and freedom, with marvelous music to movement clicks. These fun Friday 30 minute blasts of fitness and creativity are part of our 30 day challenge program.

  • Would you like to be encouraged to move 30 minutes a day for 30 days?

  • connect with a supportive community who help you stay engaged?

  • enjoy entertainment, like when Irene (our Feldenkrais Method Instructor) comes to class wearing her new skates!

Learn more about 30 day challenge

Soma News: August 18, 2023

Happy Friday Soma Friend!

We hope you are well. What an amazing week at Soma Ranch with Helen back home. Great to reconnect with the local participants in the studio, to feel the joy of dancing with the 30 day challengers and to witness the evolution and sheer brilliance of our Rock Star teaching team.

This Saturday Natasha is looking forward to dancing โ€œLevityโ€ tomorrow morning ONLINE classes in the morning

  • 8:45am 5 stages with focus Music

Our 30 day Challenge for the month of August features the focus "BASE" has been a blast, and weโ€™ve already past the half way point. This month is the beginning of a 3 month series that takes us through BASE, CORE, UPPER. Enrollment is now open for the month of September.

We are having an incredible time in our online classes and want to be able to share more of this with you, while honoring copyrights of music, Nia and more. This week we edited the beginning and end of Paulโ€™s fun Friday class to give you a taste of what happens in the zoom room.. We also captured Natasha sharing about her class preparation and what to expect in this Saturday morning classes.

Thank you Monthly Community Cuppa attendees, we raised $36 towards our annual St Jude Fundraiser.

Thank you Soma Sistas for how you help sustain our in person classes here at Soma Ranch, and special thanks to Diana (who renewed annual unlimited classes), and Becki (who signed up for the next year).

Save the date! our 14th Soma Birthday is coming up in September, choose to attend a class, retreat and or Nia 5 Stages training. There will be cake!

Have a fantastic weekend, and we hope to see yโ€™all soon!

with love

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

Music, Gravity, Levity

This Saturday Soma Ranch Rock Star teacher, Natasha, is teaching both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am class. Celebrating a foundational month, where our focus is on the BASE of the body and foundation of movement. Natasha has curated a playlist with songs from Levity and some โ€œspecial guestโ€ songs to highlight felt sensations of gravity in relationship with levity. A fabulous class where the moves click with the music AND sensations to bring magic into our experience.

Natasha: Sa 8:45am Nia 5 Stages + 10am Nia (CT)

Natasha is thrilled to be bringing a dynamic double scoop to our Saturday Morning Classes.

  • 8:45 Nia 5 Stages lesson Music

  • 10am Nia class Levity with Gravity

The concept of Levity with Gravity provides us with an opportunity to explore our bodyโ€™s way of moving our 200+ bones in relationship with the forces of down and up.

.The intent will be to have a felt sense of lightness and ease through our entire body. Moving the way we were designed to move in relationship with these up/out and down/in forces.

We would love for yโ€™all to join us!

Following Paul Duff's fabulous class tomorrow, I look forward to teaching the double Sat class.

Nia 5 Stages at 8:45am CT will be focused on Music. This is the one 5 Stages class of the year that will incorporate music. What a magical movement treat!

One of my absolute favourite things about teaching 5 Stages is how much I learn while preparing and delivering class. The education we receive from Nia is outstanding!

I don't have a musical background so it's been extra rewarding for me to learn about Music through Nia. My ears, skin, heart and cells are tuning in more and more to the sounds that surround me in class and in life.

I hope you will join me and allow yourself to be moved by music during this healing class. ๐ŸŽถ

Following 5 Stages we will dance most of the routine Levity with a few "guest" songs. The focus of our class will be Sensing both Levity and Gravity in our Base and Body. Focusing on these two qualities always leaves me feeling more open, spacious, enlightened, yet grounded and oh so harmonious.

Hope to move with you ๐Ÿฅฐ

โ€œI donโ€™t have a musical background so itโ€™s been extra rewarding for me to learn about Music through Nia.
My ears, skin, heart and cells are tuning in more and more to the sounds that surround me in class and in life.โ€
— Natasha Villeneuve
 

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.

โ€œFrom looking, listening, learning
and gaining an understanding of anatomy,
we can then sense
to re-align all parts of our body. โ€
— 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.

โ€œโ€œHi Movement Friends,

Iโ€™m looking forward to sharing both
Nia 5 Stages and Nia Levity with you.
The focus of our class will be Sensing both Levity and Gravity
in our Base and Body.
Focusing on these two qualities always leaves me feeling more open, spacious, enlightened, yet grounded and oh so harmonious.

Hope to move with you ๐Ÿฅฐ

Loveโ€
— Natasha Villeneuve

Key concepts

Music: Rhythm, Melody, Harmony

Gravity: Ground, Grounded Movement, Stability

Levity: Electro Magnetic, Light as a feather, Ease

YBW: Your Bodyโ€™s Way โ€œthe current design and function of your bodyโ€ (always changing/new)

Hereโ€™s a fabulous Levity 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.

โ€œThe 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.โ€
— Nia 5 Stages
Receive Link for Class

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 youโ€™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

Request 24HR Replay
sign up for the 30 day challenge

Thank you Soma Sistas

There is a core group of fabulous women here at Soma Ranch who sign up for the year unlimited classes with Helen. Their commitment, regular attendance and support is appreciated and enjoyed immensely.

โ€œOften I seriously wonder if I would continue to teach classes if not for this amazing core group of women who show up, fill me up, support and sustain me. โ€
— Helen Terry, Soma Ranch

Thank you Diana for renewing this month and thank you Becki for joining the โ€œSoma Sistasโ€. We appreciate how you show you and support our program here at Soma Ranch. (weโ€™ll have to come up with a revised title for this group if a guy signs up)

Diana called Soma Ranch April 2022 looking for yoga classes in the Montgomery area.

She attended a YogaFaith class, and we encouraged her to stay to watch/experience Nia. Diana is one of those โ€œlove at first sightโ€ students. Sheโ€™s been coming on a regular basis ever since.


Becki met Helen at the Conroe Yoga Room, where Helen was teaching a fusion Nia /Yoga experience. When the Yoga Room studio closed down Becki kept in touch, began to drop in to classes at Soma Ranch, then bought a few punch passes, now sheโ€™s decided the year unlimited is her best option. Becki also appreciates the ONLINE + 24 HR replay options when she travels - which is often!

โ€œHelen and Joe have created a haven of peace and joy at Soma and a tribe of beautiful people has grown up within it.ย โ€
— Becki K

Fitness workouts have been a part of my life since I was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12. My doctor looked me straight in the eyes and said โ€œyou must exercise every single day or you will be in a wheel chair by the age of 30.โ€  

When I first tried Nia 4 years ago, in that 1st class, I experienced the workout, AND THE RELEASE, of all the muscles surrounding my spine. Nia makes a solid difference in my mobility and helps me maintain a very low pain threshold. It teaches through mind, body and soul, sculpting awareness and response through a fit vessel. 

Although not a fan of my 40 minute drive each way, nor doing classes online, I recognize the difference Nia makes in my overall health and well being. I love the space and am growing very fond of the people. Helen makes the online classes fun and easy when my need arisesโ€ฆ

โ€œThe music is therapy! Uplifting, motivating, at times even soul searching. There is a lot of laughter and smiles. Love it.ย โ€
— Becki K

Thank you Soma Sistas

Amy, Becki, Bonnie

CatheyChris, Cynthia

Deana, Diana, Darlene

Kay, Jessica, Laura

Megan, Monica, Peggy

Learn more
Soma Class Rates
from $20.00
  • $20 | 1 class

  • $75 | 5 class pass (3 month expiration) ($15 per class)

  • $130 | 10 class pass (3 month expiration) ($13 per class)

  • $99 | 30 Day Journey, 30 Classes, ALL 8am + 10am ($3.30 per class)

  • $75 | Day Retreat(click for more Info)

  • $25 | Lunch or Dinner

  • $96 | 60 min massage

  • $145 | 90 min massage

30 Day Challenge Benefits:

  1. unlimited 10am + 8am Nia Classes for 30 days

  2. bring a โ€œnew to the journeyโ€ friend to class for a month

  3. enjoy before and after class conversations and nuggets

  4. receive automatic 24HR replays via email

Monthly Cuppa for St Jude

Dear Chris, Cathey, Susannah, Peggy, Diana, Becki and Deborah.

Thank you for choosing to hang out after class on Monday for our โ€œMonthly Cuppaโ€. (and 1. Emily Shearer you were missed, 2. Emily Mockett you were appreciated for your generous donation to St Jude today.)

Beyond the weather, which truly warranted some conversation and short venting, we enjoyed a fun, moving and very entertaining conversation that weaved around many subjects, including celebrating new vocations, report of a new natural swimming spot, experiencing death, starting up classes, the beginning stages of ending, the joys of travel AND returning home, embracing the day, request for naturopathic doctor referral and saying YES! to opportunities. The opportunity to connect, learn more about each other, laugh and support was much appreciated.

We raised $36 for St Jude (our annual fundraising campaign)

โ€œThese monthly meetings are very important to me and other people in the group. I love and need the opportunity to connect and appreciate these special cuppas.โ€
— Chris, Nia White Belt + regular Soma Student

Our next โ€œMonthly Cuppaโ€ is Monday, September 11th (when we will be celebrating Somaโ€™s 14th Birthday)

https://www.somaranch.com/jude

Learn more
make a donation

Joy of Mentorship

December 2019 I visited Kellie Chambers and her JustMove Studio in Eugene Oregon for the first time. I lead a class and special event, we enjoyed dinner and great conversations, then the following day we drove together to the Nia Headquarters in Portland to embark on the 3rd generation Nia training program.

Little did we know the next year, 2020, would throw a Pandemic curve ball, resulting in all Nia trainings being moved to an ONLINE format. The training trainers needed to pivot, change how they were learning, the curriculum changed, the program was extended and extensive, and their graduation was delayed.

This past week Kellie was finally able to co-lead her first Nia White Belt Training and I (who have been her mentor along the way) had the joy of co-leading, coaxing, encouraging, praising and supporting her through the process.

โ€œThe joy of mentorship
is an extraordinary experience
that cannot be understated.โ€

Mentoring Kellie Chambers has been a profound privilege, what a pleasure to guide and support this awesome human being on her journey of growth and learning.

As a mentor, witnessing the transformation and progress of someone I have invested time and energy into is immensely gratifying. The joy lies in the connection formed, as Iโ€™ve been able to share my knowledge, wisdom, and experiences, allowing my mentini to flourish and reach new heights. Our mentorship relationship has fostered a sense of fulfillment that comes from seeing someone unlock their full potential, overcome challenges, and find their own unique path.

It is through mentorship that we not only impart valuable skills and knowledge but also empower and inspire the next generation. In this exchange, both mentor and mentee are enriched, creating a ripple effect of joy and fulfillment that cascades beyond the individual relationship.

Thank you Kellie for this wonderful opportunity, our blossoming lifelong friendship and the deep satisfaction to be co-creating incredible retreats, trainings and experiences with you.

Congratulations Nia White Belts

Once upon a time, in the serene town of Pleasant Hill, Oregon, nestled at the foot of the majestic Cascade mountains, two extraordinary women, Kellie Chambers and Helen Terry, found themselves coming together to present a unique NIA white belt training class called 'Art of Sensation' at the enchanting Bloom retreat. The retreat, surrounded by lush orchards and picturesque forests, was the perfect setting for a week of self-discovery and transformation.

Congratulations wonderful Nia White Belts. Hereโ€™s a taste of the sacred environment, the graduation and celebrations.

Hereโ€™s a lovely story shared by Nia White Belt participant Stephen P Kane

Once upon a time, in the serene town of Pleasant Hill, Oregon, nestled at the foot of the majestic Cascade mountains, two extraordinary women, Kellie Chambers and Helen Terry, found themselves coming together to present a unique NIA white belt training class called 'Art of Sensation' at the enchanting Bloom retreat. The retreat, surrounded by lush orchards and picturesque forests, was the perfect setting for a week of self-discovery and transformation.

Kellie Chambers, with her vibrant spirit and boundless creativity, had dedicated her life to exploring the connection between movement and the human soul. As a seasoned NIA instructor, she believed that dance had the power to unlock hidden talents and awaken the deepest parts of ourselves. Her infectious energy and unwavering passion for helping others discover their true potential made her a cherished mentor among her students.

On the other hand, Helen Terry was a wise and gentle soul, renowned for her deep understanding of the universal laws of nature. With her calming presence and profound knowledge, she had the remarkable ability to guide others towards personal epiphanies and inner peace. Her teachings resonated with those seeking a connection with the natural world, and she had a gift for unraveling the mysteries of life.

As the week-long training began at Bloom retreat, fifteen women and a man from all walks of life gathered with anticipation. Each participant carried their own hopes, dreams, and burdens, seeking solace in the embrace of this magical place. The orchards whispered stories of growth and abundance, while the forest whispered secrets of resilience and interconnectedness.

Throughout the training, Kellie and Helen complemented each other perfectly, their unique strengths intertwining to create an experience that was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Kellie's vibrant dance routines and creative exercises awakened the dormant talents within the participants, allowing them to express themselves freely and fearlessly. Helen's deep wisdom and connection to nature brought a sense of grounding and tranquility, enabling the participants to tap into the universal laws of nature and find solace in their simple truths.

As the days passed, mystery and tension filled the air, challenging the participants to confront their fears and embrace their vulnerabilities. Each sunrise brought a new opportunity for release and growth, as the beauty of Bloom retreat mirrored the unfolding of countless talents. The man, initially unsure of his place among the predominantly female group, discovered his own unique strengths and learned the power of vulnerability.

Under Kellie and Helen's guidance, the participants experienced profound personal epiphanies. They shed tears of both sorrow and joy, releasing the weight of past experiences and embracing the promise of a brighter future. The bonds formed within the group became unbreakable, as they supported and uplifted one another along their individual journeys.

On the final day of the 'Art of Sensation' training, as the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and gold, the participants stood tall and proud, their spirits uplifted and hearts filled with gratitude. They had discovered a newfound sense of purpose, a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them.

As Kellie Chambers and Helen Terry bid farewell to their radiant students, they knew that their paths would continue to intertwine in the most beautiful of ways. The 'Art of Sensation' training had not only transformed the lives of those who attended but had also strengthened the bond between these two remarkable women. Together, they would continue to spread their message of self-discovery, creativity, and connection, forever leaving a mark on the hearts of all who crossed their paths.


And so, as the sun set over the Bloom retreat, the orchards and forests whispered their gratitude, forever grateful for the presence of Kellie Chambers, Helen Terry, and the unforgettable journey they had embarked upon.

(By ChatGPT with some prodding by a certain someone ๐Ÿ˜Š)

Stephen P Kane,

Do the right thing.