Special Saturday Guest Teacher, Kellie Chambers

Enjoy 2 wonderful class opportunities with Fellow Nia Trainer, Kellie Chambers. Freedance & Resonance

The Nia 5 Stages class lesson explores how FreeDance helps us stimulate movement creativity for both our body and brain.

in the 10am Nia class Kellie will weave this lesson into a the Nia Routine Resonance.

Usual class rates apply

24 hour replay available upon request.

10am Nia Class

FOCUS: The 7 chakras

INTENT: To stimulate an interactive relationship with the physical body layers you can touch and see, and with the energetic and spiritual layers you cannot see but can sense and connect with.

EXPANDED INTENT : The intent of ResOnance is to use Nia movement, mindfulness to become aware of the location and personality of the 7 chakras and to use movement to stimulate an interactive relationship with your body and the human energy field composed of the physical body layer you can touch and see, and composed of energy, mental, emotional, and spiritual layers you cannot see but can sense, feel, and touch using a multi-sensory approach of hands-on, felt-sense, mindful intent, and imagination.

“A great way to get immediate information is to change what you do or how you do it. That is why in FreeDance movement creativity is so powerful. It changes what you do. A little bit of shift and change brings more awareness to you, your body and to the Voice of the Body, which is sensation.

The central nervous system – the brain and spinal cord – is in charge of sending and receiving information. It is designed to process a lot of different information simultaneously and to keep our senses alert.”

— Nia 5 Stages

MUSIC PLAYLIST

Based on the Gaelic words, Saor meaning freedom and saoil meaning to imagine, the music of ResOnance , Saioule integrates the sound and resonance of the crystal bowls with the transformative voice of Shannon Day. Created in freedom and through her imagination, as a journey through the seven chakras, the music of Saioule takes you on a sound and sensory journey into a most magical environment of resonant sound healing. Saioule (sai – ool) is the perfect resonant landscape to inspire self-healing, health, wellness, and holistic conditioning.

Each song in ResOnance begins with the sound of the crystal bowls, the resonant sound of a chakra. It is followed by vocalist Shannon Day’s breath and voice, creating the perfect sonic landscape to experience listening, sensing, and dancing to the music with the 7 chakras. This integrative method of sound and voice encourages the physical liberation and vibration in your seven chakra energy centers, supporting sympathetic vibrations to empower and cleanse your emotional body to leave you feeling a stronger physical presence. While your ears will assist you in picking up vibrations, it is your entire body that will pick up vibrations and pulsations your ears cannot. As you listen and dance, consciously listen with your whole body.

“The body’s intelligence creates a pathway so that once we do something, the body remembers. If we keep repeating what we do in the same way, then parts of our body that are designed to stay alert can get a little lazy.

Changing what we do can fool our body into thinking,
“We’ve never done this,”
and will keep those sensory parts of us awake and attentive”

— Nia 5 Stages

Helen and Paul Jam with the Music of Kelly Clarkson

Helen Terry and Paul Duff have been “cookin’ up” the concept of a “duet Class” where they teach movement to the music of Kelly Clarkson for several months. Good news! we’ve made a date and would love you to join us. Usually the Friday 8am 30 min class is exclusively open to 30 day challengers only.

We’re making an exception for this fun Friday class, you can sign up for the month OR sign up for the class (regular class rates apply). We’d love to see you. Whether it be for a class, the month or for all of 2024, we would LOVE to share the joy with you.

Saturday December Schedule

We have been on a journey through the 52 lessons of Nia 5 Stages. Each Saturday the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages lesson most often then becomes the focus for the 10am Movement class. With only 4 weeks left in December we thought you might like to know what’s coming up (there’s some really juicy options!)

1. Helen Terry is leading Brain Reflexive Voluntary this Saturday with ROCK OPERA (music playlist below)

2. The following week Helen is Celebrating 30 years of teaching Nia with PsoasSound with her creation to the Music of Enigma.

3. Then Kellie Chambers will lead FreeDance with Resonance.

4. Finally, the last Saturday of the year, Helen will teaching Ligaments and Tendons, a perfect focus for looking at how to link from one day, one month, one year, to the next. As it is in the Body, so it is in life!

“The Body’s Way looks at the design and form of the body.
This form tells us about function.”

— Nia 5 Stages

Nia 5 Stages 8:45am + Movement 10:00am (CT)

These classes are HYBRID 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.

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.

“To educate the body somatically,
we first become curious,
not through the mind
but by exploring sensation
for the sheer stimulation of it.
We notice and learn through the senses.”

— 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

“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

30 years teaching Nia, come celebrate with Helen

Almost to the day I began my Nia journey 30 years ago. How I have survived and thrived is to be original, adaptive and creative. I giggle at how, in the 30 years of teaching Nia full time, I never received the “teacher of the year award”. I love how I have evolved to a point where I no longer need external awards, motivation, favors or support. I’ve found my way, my style and my brand.

I LOVE, and am super grateful, how there are folks who have been with me, attended my classes, for decades.

I’ve learned about 130 Nia routines (choreographed class experiences), I’ve adapted these into about another 100 experiences (new music adapted to the original music) and I’ve choreographed about 290 of my own creations. From all of these 520 experiences, tomorrow I choose Enigma for many reasons

• one of the most popular/requested classes of all time

• the music feels ageless and seamless

• several therapeutic journeys over the past 30 years have weaved into the choreography

• this was my dear friend, R.I.P. Alan Davidson’s all time favorite class

• the words of these songs feel so relevant for today….**

We dance to Enigma’s second CD (Cross of Change) from beginning to end. A cool thing about this music is how most of the songs weave seamlessly from one to the next. This continuity brings a beautiful building energetic quality to both the music and the moves for a magical experience.

Focus: Seamless Continuity Celebration with 5H’s: Heals, Hara, Heart, Head & Hands

Intent: to feel more Grounded, Relaxed, Aware, Centered with Energy.

Usual class rates apply

24 hour replay available upon request.

The words of these songs feel so relevant for today….

Lyrics for “Return To Innocence”

Love - Devotion

Feeling - Emotion

Don't be afraid to be weak

Don't be too proud to be strong

Just look into your heart my friend

That will be the return to yourself

The return to innocence.

If you want, then start to laugh

If you must, then start to cry

Be yourself don't hide

Just believe in destiny.

Don't care what people say

Just follow your own way

Don't give up and use the chance

To return to innocence.

That's not the beginning of the end

That's the return to yourself

The return to innocence.

Lyrics for Cross of Change (the last song)

If you understand or if you don'tIf you believe or if you doubt

There's a universal justice

And the eyes of truthAre always watching you

Here’s a video clip with more information about adapting and creating choreography and also more about the creation/focus of Enigma. FYI tomorrow we dance the ORIGINAL MOVES TO ORIGINAL ENIGMA MUSIC (disregard my chat at the end about options LOL).

Soma News

Happy Friday!

This week, as I listen to the rain on our tin roof, I’m reminded of my Nia White Belt in Portland 30 years ago. Little did I know then, what a ride I, and my family, would go on for the past 3 decades. The summary is these 30 years have been a true team effort with the Terry family, our parents and some amazing key friends along the way.

I got married (to Joe Terry) to stay in the country to take the Nia White Belt (fortunately that worked out beyond expectations). I began teaching Nia at St Luke’s hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston, within a week of graduating from the course.

My “step in the door” opportunity, providing 2 programs (2 classes for cardiac rehab patients and 2 classes for staff and nurses) soon evolved into being offered a full time position as an exercise physiologist in Non Invasive Cardiology. I then was invited to spearhead a “limber for life” revolutionary community mind-body lifestyle outreach program for seniors, had a baby, got promoted then, due to a curious most bizarre technicality I could neither accept my new job nor retain my previous one. I was out of a job. Now I look back on this (like several other unique turns on my life path) with humor and deep appreciation.

I started teaching at the Downtown YMCA and built the program up to teaching 9 classes a week, expanded to additional classes at Fitness Exchange, Several Dancers Core, Motherhood Center, St Andrew’s Church and several others. Then subleased the Fitness Exchange Aerobics Room, moved away from YMCA and merged all classes to under one roof. Built the program to be able to take on a full lease of the facility then, when the owner died and the new owner gave 7 days notice, I moved to the 3rd floor of the same building to co-share a studio with the Houston #%$@&* Meditation Center. Another “scratch your head - soap opera” thing happened and our NiaMoves business was homeless for about 6 months, back to subleasing 6+ locations a week, at random days and times.

Fellow Nia teacher Kristie Bryant saved the day when she asked to come into business partnership with me, find a new location and incorporate the business. We leased space on Houston Avenue for a few years, then bought property, Joe came to the rescue with his carpentry skills and we created a studio on Pecore. Meanwhile Helen and Joe bought a ranch and co-created Soma Ranch retreat center. Kristie and Helen then sold the NiaMoves property and business. Kristie and family relocated to Austin, Helen and Joe moved to Montgomery.

During these twists and turns Joe quit his full time job as a general manager of Cafe Adobe restaurant and became full time “at home Dad”. He took care of “all things home” while I managed the studio and began to travel extensively as a Nia Teacher Trainer. Our daughter flipped from private to public to private and back to public school, before graduating with honors, and accepting a place at University of Texas in for a BA in Radio Television and Film. Liliana then flipped, somewhere in the middle, moved to Computer Science, and graduated with 2 degrees, BA in Linguistics and BS Computer Science. She now lives in Seattle with her husband Carter, where they both work for Facebook.

If you’ve made it this far congratulations! as you can see we the Terry family have twisted, turned, weaved, pivoted, been dropped and many other things. We’ve danced through all these ups and downs, navigated several set backs and have managed to creative a fabulous life full of laughs, joy and love.

This Saturday Helen is celebrating 30 years of Teaching at the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages Psoas and Sound and 10am ENIGMA Experience. We’d LOVE for you to join us whether it be in person at Soma Ranch, ONLINE via zoom or via the 24 Hour Replay.

Click here for details and full schedule for December Saturday Classes. Special Guest teacher, Kellie Chambers is leading NEXT Saturday’s classes with Resonance FreeDance. Finally Helen will be leading the last Saturday class of the year.

Now is a great time to Enrollment for Retreats in 2024 and/or trainings with Helen . And, if you are looking at making a charitable donation before the end of the year, please consider our annual St Jude Fundraiser.

Be well, with love from

Helen, Joe, the team and all the fond 4 legged friends at Soma. And here’s some photos from Soma this week.

Joe is a "good egg"

Joe Terry, Soma Ranch co-owner, provides all meals at Soma during retreats and Nia Trainings. Regarded more as a culinary artist, than a cook,, Joe often shares how “people eat with their eyes”. He takes pride, care and attention into his meal preparations.

Guests, who often request the recipes, exclaim “at home my attempt never tastes as good as when Joe makes it”. Most of us agree, Joe’s secret ingredient is love and his 40+ years of skills and experience cannot be replicated.

One fond thing we appreciate about Joe is how, in the fridge, he plays with identifying which eggs are cooked and which are not. Here’s an example of Joe’s art, fun nature and attention to detail. We hope you are entertained and perhaps play with doing this yourself at home. Could be a fun family holiday task. All you need is a sharpie (or 2) and a playful attitude.

“Joe’s secret ingredient is love
and his 40+ years of skills and experience
cannot be replicated.”

— Soma Ranch Guest

“people eat with their eyes”

— Joe Terry

Continuing our quest for the world’s most perfect omelette, we’ve recently been experimenting with apple, avocado and cheese, with a dash of sea salt and pepper, as the filling. Let us know what you think if you try this at home.

Psoas and Sound

This Saturday, December 16, we will delve deep into Psoas and Sound in both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages and then into the Enigma experience with Helen at 10am (US Central Time)

Nia 5 Stages at 8:45am

Enjoy a Slide show during the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class to help you

“The psoas muscle can dramatically change the sound of your voice.
The more relaxed your body
– and thus the more relaxed your psoas
– the deeper the resonance and tone of your voice.”

— Nia 5 Stages

• understand where your Psoas muscle is,

• how Psoas affects the rest of your body

• how you move/dance with your Psoas

• how to hydrate/heal this curious muscle/messenger

Enigma with Helen at 10:00am

Then dance your psoas with sound in Helen Terry’s Enigma experience at 10am.

These classes are triple hybrid. You have 3 different ways to experience these classes:

1. IN PERSON at Soma Ranch

2. ON LINE via Zoom

3. RECORDING through 24HR replay

Enjoy these video clips and photos to give you more a feel for your psoas and get ready for classes.

“So I think I’ve found it. 
How to have a home in my
body. 
Intellectually, I know it’s the next step.... 
Knowing I need to find my home in my body.
(Which I can so easily feel betrayed by). 
There has been no answers. 

Then - to find the psoas -
the instruction to put my hands at the bottom of my rib cage
“as if they were like little wings”
and I wrapped my hands at my mid-back and instantly started sobbing.
I fell to my knees. 

The next cue
- the image and instruction to
place the hands at the inner thigh/groin area -
and a wave of relief. 
And then
- both hands at the neck-
“Like a triangle”. 
And I repeated those three gestures
over and over and over again.
As if I was remembering something. 
Finding what felt like
it might be
Home. ”

— Nia Green Belt Participant/Teacher

A Time of Celebration ~ "Rising"

One of the first ever Nia Routines I learned was Mantra, choreographed by Nia Co Founder Carlos Aya Rosas. Over the years I’ve adapted the original routine and choreography to new music. A playlist compiled of songs to do with Rising with a focus around the concept "Rising".

Focus: Movement as mantra and a metaphor for self, community, life. Beginning with sensing the belly (our core) notice how this “moma cell” can:

1. contract/extend,

2. bend/lean,

3. figure 8.

The Belly is a substance with

1. strength (resilience),

2. elasticity (ability to bounce back),

3. fluidity (go with the flow).

After (1) embodying the focus in the Belly we (2) expand awareness to the belly of the 700 muscles in our body, then (3) to the 70+ trillion cells. All the same mantra of movement.

• We sense inward (Body, Belly, Muscles, Connective Tissue, Cell)

• We also sense outwards (Body, Self, Others, Class, Community, Global)

Intent: From inward + outward awareness we develop a sense of inter-connection "we are one". The Mantra, the movement, our lives and community continues. This is a time for celebration. An invitation to be inspired to rise up above anything that draws us down.

• We are strong

• We bounce back

• We go with the flow

You're invited to come celebrate and join in the dance at Soma Ranch. 

10-11am Thursday, December 14,  $15 drop in, $65 for 5 classes.

Wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle and a smile.

Soma News

Happy Friday!

We have many things to celebrate and share about here at Soma Ranch. We hope something here brings you a sparkle and bundle of joy…

1. Here at Soma Ranch we have received RAVE 5 Star reviews and achieved AirBNB Superhost status in less than one month of being back on Short Term Rental (after long pause through the pandemic! - feels like a final "healing" from our stressful lockdown).

2. Thank you to Monthly Cuppa attendees, we raised $45 towards our annual St Jude Fundraiser.

3. Through this year for the 3rd time, 3rd year, we have rotated through the 52 Nia 5 Stages lessons. We are celebrating our last 4 Saturday morning classes and have provided you with the schedule/lesson themes and foci.

4. This Saturday Helen is teaching this Saturday 8:45am Nia 5 Stages Brain Reflexive Voluntary and 10am ROCK OPERA Experience

5. Next Saturday Helen is Celebrating teaching Nia full time for 30 years! Please join us in a fabulous experience, usual class rates apply. Then Kellie Chambers is a special Saturday guest with Resonance FreeDance. Finally Helen will be leading the last Saturday class of the year. Click here for details, full schedule and how to sign up for December Saturday Classes.

6. Our Rock star teaching team are all all in for 2024, the Thanksgiving Jam was an amazing success with more than 100 participants registering. We are continuing our 30 day monthly movement challenge, the 365 day annual movement challenge and will be offering 3 Jams (February, Love) (July, Freedom) (November, Gratitude)

7. Enrollment for Retreats and Trainings with Helen in 2024 has been fantastic. We'd love you to join us. Due to popular request we have extended our special offer through December 30th. Save $300 off either retreat AND choose a 30 day challenge for free or $500 off the 365 day challenge (yes! the entire 365 day challenge for only $499)

8. Similarly sign up for a training with Helen and receive the same fabulous class options.

9. This morning Helen taught a Blue Monkey improv class, where participants made songs requests, Helen created the moves, and together magic was co-created. Here’s the playlist and more information. You are welcome to join us for the rest of December, there’s still time to consider signing up for December NOW.

Be well, with love from

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

And YES! our biggest news of the week is we have bought a beautiful “Hikers Cabin” near Hoodsport in the Lake Cushman area. In celebration of our biggest news of the week, our “photos of the week”. show images and “the feel of our future”, times with family and friends, ability to enjoy the Washington State countryside and wonderful state parks and forests. We will be splitting our time between Soma Ranch in Texas and Hikers Cabin in Washington. Each property is available through AirBNB when we are staying at the other. Click HERE if you’d like to check out your options ;-)

AirBNB SUPER Hosts with 5 Star reviews.

After a long pause, including many dancing dynamics through the pandemic, Soma Ranch Owners, Joe and Helen, are delighted have re-listed Soma Ranch on AirBNB short term rentals.

Thank you all fabulous guests who came to stay, in less than a month we have received 5 star RAVE reviews and regained SUPER Host Status.

The AirBNB Super Host Status, elevates us back up to the top of searches and filters, while bringing benefits and bonuses. AND we now have a new listing, new property, new opportunity in Washington State:

---

Private Retreat Center (BOOK THE WHOLE RANCH!)

Welcome home to our secluded 15 acre ranch retreat. Feel like a rock star and enjoy the whole ranch to yourselves. We're close to the Texas Ren Fest, only 2 miles from quaint Montgomery. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, enjoy a peaceful setting with the convenience of cafes, restaurants, wineries, boutiques, and grocery store (even Signature Krogers Grocery and 24 hour Walmart Super Center!) within minutes.

---

Soma Ranch Sweet Suites

Enjoy the entire upstairs of the Soma Ranch House. Whether solo, couple, triple or quad you are guaranteed the entire upstairs suite exclusively to yourself. Enjoy Full Private bath. And take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Downstairs is shared space with Helen & Joe, however you may find you have the whole place to yourself as we're often out working in the pastures or off enjoying all things fabulous in Montgomery, Texas

---

Soma Ranch ~ Pool Side Casita

At Soma Ranch, nestled in the picturesque countryside, awaits a charming private poolside casita tiny home, offering a delightful and tranquil stay for one person. This inviting space boasts a cozy interior, meticulously decorated with rustic yet modern touches. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a comfortable and inviting twin-sized daybed, perfect for a restful night's sleep after a day of exploration.

At Soma Ranch, nestled in the picturesque countryside, awaits a charming private poolside casita tiny home, offering a delightful and tranquil stay for one person. This inviting space boasts a cozy interior, meticulously decorated with rustic yet modern touches. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a comfortable and inviting twin-sized daybed, perfect for a restful night's sleep after a day of exploration. The casita features a kettle, selection of teas and coffee machine, allowing for convenient hot drink preparation, the mini fridge provides space for your chilled beverage and/or snacks food you choose to bring with you and a cozy sitting area where you can relax and unwind.

The true highlight of this tiny home is its private poolside location, inviting you to soak up the sun's rays or take a refreshing dip at your leisure. The sauna, hot tub and cold plunge are a welcoming triad of rejuvenation. Whether you're seeking solitude or looking to rejuvenate in the serene surroundings, this private poolside casita at Soma Ranch provides an idyllic retreat for a memorable stay.

---

Soma Ranch Barndo Beauty

Get away from it all when you stay under the stars in our cozy rustic barndominium that is like none other! This spacious converted, fully insulated, barn, with excellent AC/heat system, ceiling fans and luxury thread counts, provides a unique haven for your romantic get away for 2 or a slumber party for up to 11! You get to choose.

---

Personal Retreat: Private Room & Bathroom

Indulge in a rock star experience at our magnificent 15-acre Ranch Retreat, where luxury and serenity meet. Unwind in your exclusive private room, boasting a charming wrap-around porch that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding beauty. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of our Olympic lap pool, or rejuvenate your body and soul in the tranquil embrace of the sauna and hot tub. And if connecting with nature is your thing, our friendly horses and donkeys eagerly await your company. Feel like royalty as you settle into the cozy downstairs Queen bed, complete with a private bathroom for your utmost convenience. Need some inspiration? Look no further than the desk adorned with two comfortable chairs, positioned perfectly near your window overlooking the lush pastures. At Soma Ranch, we aim to deliver an experience that will make you feel like a true rock star.

---

---

Book the Whole Ranch

Soma private Retreat Center

https://airbnb.com/h/somaranch

Book By the Room

Personal Retreat: Private Room & Bathroom

Downstairs Private 1 Bedroom and Private 1 Bathroom: 1 Queen Bed, Desk & Chairs by Window

https://airbnb.com/h/somaranch-personal-retreat

Soma Sweet Suites

Entire Upstairs Floor: 2 Bedrooms, 4 Double Beds, 1 - 4 guests, Private Full Bathroom

https://airbnb.com/h/somaranch-suites

Soma Barndo Beauty

Exclusive Barndominium Booking: Large Bedroom. Queen Bed + 10 twins. 2 Full Bathrooms. Lounge, Kitchenette, Dinning Area

https://airbnb.com/h/somaranch-barndo

Soma Pool-Side Casita

Complete Privacy in Special Pool Side Casita Tiny Home: Twin Bed, Shower, Toilet, Sink, Sliding Glass doors to amaving poolside view. Porch area with complete privacy option with new Cabana Curtains

https://airbnb.com/h/somaranch-casita

---

Hikers Cabin, Lake Cushman, Washington

We are super excited to share we have a new property we’d love to share with you. This 2 bedroom, 2 bath, cabin Near Lake Cushman is a fabulous retreat location for relaxing, hiking and enjoying the beautiful scenery this part of the world has to offer. The good news for the Terry family is

• The cabin is within easy driving distance of Seattle (where their Daughter and Son-in-Law live)

• The area is their daughter’s “Happy Place” (and we now understand why)

Saturday Morning Brain Reflexive Voluntary with Helen

Saturday 12/9/23 Helen Terry is teaching both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am class.

Continuing our December Challenge of Yes We Can. We will focus on The Brain, specifically exploring Reflexive and Voluntary response. After 5 stages lesson Helen will continue the focus into the 10:00am movement experience to the music of Rock Opera!

Nia 5 STAGES

FOCUS: Brain Reflexive Voluntary

10am Nia CLASS “BRV with Rock Opera”

FOCUS: Brain Reflexive Voluntary

INTENT: To connect with our inner expressive “YES”

ROUTINE: Helen Terry Original: “Rock Opera”

MUSIC: EVOC (East Village Opera Company)

“Neuroscience is showing us
that what we think we know may
just be a point of reference for the brain”

— 5 Stages

“Every time you think,
you interrupt your body’s ability
to function optimally.
We think to start, stop,
make choices and decisions,
voluntary thinking is very slow
and takes energy and effort.”

— Nia 5 Stages

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

These classes are HYBRID 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.

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.

“To educate the body somatically,
we first become curious,
not through the mind
but by exploring sensation
for the sheer stimulation of it.
We notice and learn through the senses.”

— Nia 5 Stages

“The body is coded to keep us aware and safe.
Sensory information feeds that awareness”

— 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

“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

YES Blue Monkey Friday with Helen

As part of our 30 day movement challenge, our theme for the end of the work week is “Fun Friday”. This Friday Helen Terry taught a Blue Monkey Class. This is where the participants bring the song requests, the teacher improvises the moves and together we co-create magic.

In line with our monthly focus “Yes we Can”, the songs requests were invited to be LOOSELY within the theme of Yes. We find how, by giving a focus suggestion for the music request, participation is increase, creativity explodes and, something Helen enjoys most is, we get to know more about the participants within our community.

Enjoy the playlist. Entertaining getting up and dancing to the fabulous music. You can choose to either listen in order (the landscape/order of the tunes evolve very well), or be bold and select shuffle to see what comes your way.

Soma Specials For Nia Trainees

Soma Specials

We love when folks can come to class, dance with Helen and get to know the community BEFORE they attend a Nia Training at Soma Ranch. This helps participants relax in anticipation of their experience and develop a sense of belonging before they even arrive.

Now is a super time to plan for 2024, you can save significantly when you follow these steps by November 28th.

1. sign up for a Nia training (save up to $399)

2. book your accommodation at Soma

3. secure your desired room at Soma Ranch

4. receive bonus choices:

• OPTION 1: 30 day movement challenge, 30 classes in 30 days, $99 value

• OPTION 2: $500 off the 365 day challenge

Nia HQ Codes for Sale:

White Belt Training Code: SAVE399WB

Blue, Brown & Black Belt Trainings Code: SAVE299BELTS

Green Belt Training Code: SAVE100GREEN

Specialty Training Code: SAVE99SPECIALTY

Advantages of “Pre-Training” Online Classes with helen and the Soma team

Introduction
In today's digital age, the ability to attend classes online has revolutionized the way we learn and prepare for events. Soma Ranch recognizes the value of offering online classes via Zoom to its guests before they arrive for training. This blog explores the benefits of attending online classes, ranging from convenience and flexibility to enhanced preparedness and engagement.

Convenience and Flexibility
One of the primary advantages of attending online classes via Zoom is the unparalleled convenience it offers. Guests who plan to attend training at Soma Ranch can access these classes from the comfort of their own homes. By providing the option to participate virtually, Soma Ranch ensures that guests can fit some preparing for their training effortlessly into their busy schedules.
Moreover, online classes via Zoom offer incredible flexibility. Whether it's early morning or late at night, with the 24HR replay, guests have the freedom to select the time that suits them best. This flexibility allows participants to enjoy the classes, take notes and learn from the experiences when they are most focused and receptive, preserving the quality of both their workout and learning experience.

Enhanced Preparedness and Engagement
Attending online classes prior to arriving at Soma Ranch allows guests to enter their training with a solid foundation of familiarity. These classes serve as an introduction to Helen, the community (in the Soma room and on Zoom) and quite possibly fellow trainees. By familiarizing themselves in advance, guests can optimize their time at Soma Ranch and capitalize on the opportunity to deepen their understanding and skills.
Furthermore, online classes via Zoom foster active engagement from the outset. Participants have the chance to connect with teachers, participants and fellow attendees virtually, enabling them to familiarize themselves with the friendly, supportive community before even setting foot on the ranch. Through interactive discussions, Q&A sessions, and collaborative activities, guests can become actively involved in their pre-training journey, enhancing their overall learning experience.

Networking Opportunities
Another advantage of attending online classes is the networking opportunities it presents. Guests can interact with like-minded individuals who share a common interest in Somatic Movement. By engaging in online discussions and collaborating with the group and teachers, participants can forge connections and build relationships ahead of their arrival at Soma Ranch. This pre-training networking can contribute to a more enriching and supportive training experience, as guests can draw upon these connections for guidance and inspiration.

Conclusion
The availability of online classes via Zoom in the pre-training phase at Soma Ranch proves to be a mighty asset for its guests. By providing convenience, flexibility, enhanced preparedness, engagement, and networking opportunities, Soma Ranch ensures that guests make the most of their training experience. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of online classes will remain a valuable tool, seamlessly merging the convenience of remote learning with the transformative power of in-person training.

When guests sign up, by November 28th, for their accommodation for a 2024 Nia training or retreat they receive a complimentary Monthly 30 Day challenge (30 days, 30 classes) or a $500 discount off the 365 day challenge.

Monthly Cuppa for St Jude

Dear Chris Peggy, Susannah, Emily, Diana, Kay, Becki, Fae, JoAnn Aline and Gigi

Thank you for choosing to hang out after class on Monday for our “Monthly Cuppa”. We appreciate your generous donations to St Jude, today we raised $45. What a wonderful bonus to welcome Fae (who was visiting from Portland Maine for Aqua Nia coaching)

Being able to relax, sit down outside, enjoy the perfect Texas weather and delightful conversations was a treat. These monthly connections are very special times. The opportunity to connect, learn more about each other, laugh and support was much appreciated.

We raised $45 for St Jude (our annual fundraising campaign)

“These 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.”

— Chris, Nia White Belt + regular Soma Student

Our next “Monthly Cuppa” is Monday, January 8th

https://www.somaranch.com/jude

Excellent 52 Moves Shuffle teaching

Paul Duff, teaching ONLINE from his home studio.

Big shout out to Paul Duff who taught an excellent class today. I love witnessing how his teaching style and skills have evolved over this past year.

Today Paul taught an entire class to the music of Yes! (in line with our monthly focus of "yes we can"). He used his "52 moves shuffle" format, to deliver all 52 moves (one every 30 seconds) in 30 minutes.

The shuffle component of this format means the teacher has no idea which of the 52 moves is coming up next. The spontaneous, random selection of the move (via an app on iPad) forces us to

• create on the fly,

• crafting how to weave the "move of the moment",

• within the cycle the move lands on,

• in relationship with the music.

“Thank you for a YES flowing 52 moves class.
So nice I did it twice!
Loved loved loved it,.”

— Jackie L., Long time 30 Day Challenge Participant

Yes! a multi high level skill task! And the mastery trick is to be able to do craft the experience, engage and lead the class, while sustaining a Relaxed, Alert, Waiting state of being, something we fondly call "RAW" in Nia Technique.

As well as excellent execution of all the moves in relationship with the very unique music of Yes, Paul also demonstrated fabulously diverse teaching cue styles. US education, and particularly fitness instruction, can often be predominantly be “command style” communication, where the instructor tells the student what to do. Today, quite organically, Paul provided cues that included:

• command style

• guided discovery

• problem solving

• imagery

• emotions

• uniqueness

• personalization

• subjective, personal shares

• objective information

If you are curious to experience more classes with Paul and our fabulous “rock star” teachers we’d love you to join us for a 30 day challenge or even the 2024 365 day challenge.

To receive more education, information snippets and upcoming news about Soma Ranch be sure to subscribe to our complimentary weekly newsletter

SAVE $300 on Soma Retreats thru Dec 30

Soma Retreat Special savings

We have 2 special retreats coming up in 2024:

• EASE Embodied Authentic Solar Eclipse Retreat

• Coaching Retreat for Nia Upper Belts

Sign up, for either of these Retreats at Soma Ranch. by December 30th, and receive up to $800 off:

1. Receive $300 off the retreat

2. Receive $99 - $500 off our movement challenge:

OPTION 1: $99 off: a Free Monthly 30 Day challenge (30 days, 30 classes)

OPTION 2: $500 off the 365 day challenge (only $499 for a year of classes)

3 Jams for 2024: Love, Freedom and Thanks

From the huge successful and joyful experience of our Thanksgiving Sunday Jam, we’ve decided to schedule 3 Sunday 1pm (Central Time) Community Jams for 2024: Love, Freedom and Thanks, save the dates!

Everybody who has attended any of our 30 day (or 365 day) movement challenges is invited to attend as our guests.

Feb 4, 2024. LOVE Jam

Jul 14, 2024 FREEDOM Jam

Dec 1, 2024 THANKS Jam

3 Sunday 1pm Community JAM classes for 2024: LOVE (Feb), FREEDOM (Jul), THANKS (Nov)

Soma News

Thanksgiving Sunday Jam with 108 participants

Happy Friday! AND Happy December!

November’s month’s foci of Gratitude was beyond expectations. The creativity, and BIG HEART, of our team and community, is touching. THANK YOU every body who signed up for our Thanksgiving Sunday Jam. We had 108 people register for the class!. We loved this CELEBRATION moving movement experience, with the entire teaching team collectively teaching a class online full of gratitude. The feedback and comments from participants was lovely.

From this huge successful and joyful experience, we’ve decided to schedule 3 jams for 2024: Love, Freedom and Thanks, save the dates!

Everybody who has attended any of our 30 day movement challenges is invited to attend as our guests.

This morning we began our December movement challenge with a “Say Hello and Goodbye” 30 min experience with Helen. Enjoy this 24HR replay as our gift. (email Helen for the FREE SAMPLE link). This opportunity will give you a taste of the classes and community, and there’s still time to consider signing up for December NOW.

Several folks have requested an extension on the Soma Sales, either they were away over the holidays or they simply needed a few days into December to financially make the commitment. In line with our month of “yes we can”. We have extended the Soma Sales. Check here where we explain the great “add on” benefits of signing up now for a 2024 Soma Ranch training or retreat, with savings of up to $800 when you sign up for a retreat AND 365 days of classes in 2024. In summary,

EVERYbody who signs up for a Nia Training at Soma Ranch can choose to either receive a 30 day movement challenge for free OR the entire 365 day challenge for only $499.

EVERYbody who signs up for a Soma Retreat receives $300 off the retreat AND can choose to either receive a 30 day movement challenge for free OR the entire 365 day challenge for only $499.

Helen is attending an aquatic exercise course this weekend, thank you to Natasha who is teaching Saturday morning classes, y’all are in for a treat.

Be well, with love from

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

Here’s our “photos of the week”, the family who stayed at Soma over Thanksgiving were extremely successful with fishing (Joe says it should really be called catching!). One of the Grandsons caught 7+ fish in less than an hour!)

Monday Cuppa, 11am December 4

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, December 4th.

Yes! our “Monthly Monday Cuppa” 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 Monthly Monday Cuppa