Beth Giles, Nia instructor, will lead a Nia playshop, New Year–New Energy: An Introduction to the Nine Movement Forms, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., on January 9. The Nia Technique’s unique fusion of the freedom of dance, the power of martial arts and the body awareness of the healing arts is what makes it such a joyful, sustainable and rich movement practice.

Giles is a certified Nia Blue Belt instructor and has been teaching Nia since 2013. Her love of dance, music and movement are evident in her energetic and fun classes. “In the winter months we especially need activity and a boost both physically and mentally. Your body, mind and spirit thrive with movement and Nia lets you move freely and with pleasure,” explains Giles.

In the playshop, participants will discover Nia’s nine movement forms through playful exercises and a Nia class. One of Giles’ students had this to say about Nia, “It's given me an outlet to refocus negative emotions and energy into something more free, joyful and light. I feel so much better and more balanced after Nia!”

No prior experience is needed. Participants are asked to bring a bottle of water and a sense of curiosity. Movements are performed barefoot; if shoes must be worn, participants are asked to bring shoes not worn in the street.

Cost: $30 pre-registered by January 5; $35 at the door. Location: Yoga on Central, 1620 Central Ave. NE, Ste. 220, Minneapolis. To pre-register, call 612-259-7402 or visit YogaOnCentral.com. For more information about Nia with Beth Giles, visit NiaNow.com/BethGiles.