About Claire
.jpeg)
"Born into a family of girls - we all loved to dance from a young age! At age 12, I was accepted into the Arts Educational School, London, where I was trained in many modalities of dance, discipline and performing to an audience. I realise now, that body image was top priority, rather than body acceptance and feeling good… Nia came at a time when I needed self-acceptance and self-compassion – to help me heal.
At age 16, I left the performing arts world to move back into the fitness world, teaching many forms of aerobic exercise to music, including Aquafit and managing a gymnasium in a top hotel in Crete. An unexpected injury slowed me down with discomfort until eventually I had to put an end to my career.
Whilst I moved through marriage, childbirth and family life, I researched the body's physical form to understand it better. My curiosity lead me to study more aspects of the human being; how the mind works, how our emotions can influence our moods and even physical ability. I went on to study Neuro Linguistic Programming, TFH Kinesiology, Intuitive Body Massage, Indian Head Massage, Aromatherapy, Tai Chi, Aikido, Infant Massage… satisfying my curiosities at a deeper level. With these “tools” I was able to help myself, family and friends through some challenging life experiences."
"After some 20 years, I inadvertently took on the role of a Spa Fitness Professional in a residential home for the elderly. Here I was required to teach fitness to more mature individuals and groups. My knowledge and experience I’d gained through further study of the whole human being began to blossom in a more sensory understanding and teaching, which was accepted by my clients through a more empathic exchange. It was at this time, in my life of peri-menopause, that a few more life crisis arose to challenge me. And at this time I met Nia – perfect timing!
I stepped into my first Nia class knowing nothing about it, which was perfect, as I didn't care too much at the time, deep in my depression, a symptom of relationship breakdown and perhaps hormonal imbalance.. I had no idea that I would step out of that class “feeling better”, uplifted, and rejuvenated. Inspired by the music and sense of freedom, I was able to move in a way that was so expressive of how I felt at that moment. I allowed myself to FEEL, to let go of my troubles, and express myself in the dance... consciously moving toward sensations of joy and pleasure. At the end of class, I was included and invited to join the others for coffee and chatter, a huge step towards rising out of depression!"
"In one class I had made friends, released stuck energy, and felt fantastic! I returned to the class for another 4 weeks, and knew that my calling was to take the training to develop more awareness of myself, this Nia technique and to share it with others. Nia has changed my perception of life, inspired others, and together we create a community of acceptance, love, compassion and joy.
I love to help people. With Nia practise I am helping myself and others to heal on so many levels, encouraging daily practise of 5mins to tune in with the body mind emotions and spirit – an awareness of presence and change. Self awareness, Self care, Self respect - the learning is never ending. The healing is constant. And the joy of movement is a dance through life, connecting inwards and outwards playing in the park of nature as we know it."