Thank you Monthly Cuppas for St Jude

Our monthly “Community Cuppa” was a wonderful time for connection, conversation and support. Thank you Peggy, Chris, JoAnn, Kay, Megan and Sabrina.

This event is a fundraiser for our ““Soma Charity Partner”. All donations collected go towards St. Jude. We raised $32 for our 2024 fundraiser and we are 22% towards our $8888.88 goal with a total of $1938.88!

2024 Fundraiser Campaign

We truly appreciate these wonderful women and the community connection…

Our next “Monthly Cuppa” is Monday, January 6th.

https://www.somaranch.com/jude

Every dollar donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital counts! Take a look at some of the possibilities that your effort could provide to the kids and families of St. Jude.

  • Infant Care Supplies for 10 Babies: $50
    These supplies help parents and nurses care for babies in treatment and include items like diapers, baby bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, footies and heel warmers.

  • Wagon: $70
    Wagons can make traveling through the halls of St. Jude easier for parents and more fun for a young child.

  • Parties to celebrate birthdays, holidays and "coming off chemo": $75
    St. Jude provides parties, decorations, cakes and more to keep spirits high during the holidays and to celebrate special occasions like birthdays and a child's completion of chemotherapy treatment.

  • Creative Toys: $100
    Play is an essential part of every child's life, and it's important for the children to have fun as often as possible. At St. Jude, colorful, toy-filled play areas are just as plentiful as exam rooms.

  • Delicious Meals: $210
    St. Jude provides meal cards so that patients and families can enjoy the comfort and convenience of good, nutritious meals in the Kay Kafe, our cafeteria.

  • One Day of Oxygen: $447
    Oxygen is key to keeping the immune system strong. A gift of oxygen can help a young body thrive and help fight cancer at the cellular level.

  • Child-sized Wheelchairs: $700
    These special wheelchairs help children move easily through St. Jude.

  • Airfare for a parent and child: $1,000 Average
    For a patient referred to St. Jude, the hospital covers the cost of airfare for a child and one parent or guardian.

2023 Fundraiser Campaign

Thanksgiving Sunday Jam, 1pm Sunday 12/01/24

Thanksgiving Sunday Jam, 1pm Sunday 12/01/24

We are offering a Thanksgiving Sunday JAM gift for EveryBody who has participated in any of our 30 day Monthly Soma Challenges over the past 47 months!

All you need do is complete the following form to receive the link for class TODAY Sunday 12/01/24.

If you have not participated in a 30 day challenge simply complete the form below and make a donation here: https://www.somaranch.com/jude

No strings or attachments. We simply would LOVE to connect with you and say thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Form must be completed by 11am TODAY December 1.

  • All participants of the 30 day challenge for the past 3 years (47 months!) are invited to join us for Free.

  • The first 100 people to sign up can enjoy the class LIVE.

  • EveryBody who registers will receive the 24HR replay.

  • AnyOne who signs up for December, by November 25, can also join the jam.

  • Complete form by November 30 to receive the link for LIVE class.

DECEMBER Challenge of YES Movement

Each month for 2024 we feature a New Fun Challenge (See full list below).

For the month of December welcome to our focus of "Yes! We can!" (the final month of the year)

Yes we can, Evaluation, Celebration, “We get To Do This!”

Focus: Evaluation + Celebration

Intent: Recognize & Acknowledge

Sign up: www.somaranch.com/booking/challenge

When you sign up for the December Challenge you are also invited to join us for our Community Thanksgiving JAM.

All 30 classes are provided online via Zoom.

Do you believe in the power of a "Yes We Can" attitude? At Soma Ranch, we certainly do! With each passing day, we witness the incredible transformation that can occur when we approach life with a positive and determined mindset. Embracing the "Yes We Can" mentality opens doors to endless possibilities, propelling us towards greatness and allowing us to overcome even the most daunting challenges. With this attitude, we can conquer our fears, reach for our dreams, and achieve remarkable personal growth. So take a deep breath, embrace the power of "Yes We Can," and prepare to unlock a world of opportunities with 30 classes in 30 days. Together, let’s explore what we can accomplish.

The December Challenge “Yes! We Can!” is all about the choice, celebrating and evaluating to feel inspired, motivated, great about what we achieved in 2024 and ready to step into 2025 with confidence, clarity and joy. Providing you with classes that provide exploration of

  1. What does “yes we can” mean?

  2. Evaluate in an uplifting, meaningful, beneficial way

  3. Celebrate, recognizing and acknowledge the miles stones and achievements both big and small

Some class Foci will explore the essentials of a “Yes we Can!” attitude, for example

  • Sense the joy of a “yes we can” attitude

  • Sense and express your greatness and achievement

  • Sense how to bring ferociously determined into our movement class

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

  • “Dynamic Flow” Sense guts and grace

  • “Contrast” Sense ups and downs with body mind emotion and spirit.

  • “Spirals” Sense contrast between deep personal embrace and wide sharing celebration.

A month to help

  • improve your competence and confidence of your body’s way of moving.

  • explore more about the choice of positive attitude and yes I can do..

  • 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/challenge

When you sign up for the December 30 day challenge by November 28th you can bring a friend for FREE! AND come to our Thanksgiving Sunday JAM 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.

Class lessons will include:

  • Deep into Embryonic

  • Brain Reflexive Voluntary

  • Psoas and Sound

  • FreeDance - Stimulate Movement Creativity

  • fConnect the dots: Ligaments and Tendons

30 Day “Journey with Movement”
Sale Price: $99.00 Original Price: $120.00

When bringing a guest for free for the month thank you for completing this simple form.

https://www.somaranch.com/30-day-bring-a-friend

Thank you from Helen & Joe

Helen and Joe would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported Soma Ranch by attending classes, events, monthly community Cuppa, St Jude Donations, trainings and retreats. Also big gratitude to the teachers who have diligently shared their gifts and talents throughout the year with our 365 and 30 day challenge programs.

Soma News

Helen with participants at the Shift Studio, Budapest.

Howdy from Soma Ranch!

I’m back from Budapest, super grateful for the Soma Teaching team who taught with excellence while I was gone.

Joe and I would like to wish you a most special Thanksgiving. Whatever you choose to do we hope you find peace, joy and gratitude. I love how research continues to show how folks who practice gratitude on a regular basis live longer and happier.

Helen and Kinga celebrate 16 years of friendship, collaboration and many joyful moments experienced in Budapest, especially at the Shift Studio.

Natasha is teaching a fun 30 min Thanksgiving class at 10am Thursday (Central). Hope you can hop ONLINE for a great way to boost the start to your day.

Helen is teaching both Saturday classes with Sacred Lifestyle 5 stages class followed by “Sounding” movement experience with music from Tim Wheater.

This Sunday we have our annual ONLINE Thanksgiving Jam at 1pm. This event is free to everyone who has participated in the 30 day challenge program. And anyone else may attend with a donation made to our Soma Ranch St Jude Fundraiser.

Everyone who has attended a 30 day challenge we would really appreciate your feedback, please complete this short survey and have a chance to win some fabulous prizes.

Now’s a great time to sign up for the December “yes we can” Challenge and Cuppa is this Monday at Soma Ranch.

Joe and I thank you for how you are part of the Soma Ranch community, whether you simply keep in touch through this newsletter, have visited Soma for a retreat and/or training, occasionally pop into class online or attend classes on a regular basis, please know we appreciate you deeply and are glad you’re here.

Hope to dance with you soon,

love

Helen, (and Joe, Horses: Zephyr & Roger and of course Da Donkeys ;-)

Sarah travelled from Houston to attend Budapest Blue Belt

One very special detail in the recent Budapest Nia Training was Sarah Veenhuyzen, who travelled from Houston to attend the training. Sarah was my desk-guide (greeting participants and checking folks in) at the Nia Moves studio in Houston for YEARS.

Next year I will be offering 2 trainings in Budapest (a blue in June and a brown in November) and hope to develop this concept where folks coming over to

  • enjoy 1 or 2 public Nia classes a day,

  • get to connect with the lovely local community and

  • experience a fabulous vacation in Budapest

Helen's back from Budapest

Hi! I’m back from Budapest, feeling inspired by the community and deeply grateful to the Soma Teaching team who covered all classes with excellence while I was out of town.

Here’s a slide show of the trip. I hope it gives you a taste of the joys. I love my morning runs around the “island park”, lovely coffee shops, cafes and bistros, fabulous local community, the classes are electric, the trainees are awesome, Kinga (the host) is amazing… what’s not to love!

Special 30 min Thanksgiving Thursday class with Natasha Villeneuve

Would you like a lovely booster start to your Thanksgiving?

Thursday 11/28/24 Soma Rock Star Nia teacher Natasha Villeneuve is teaching a special 30 Min class at 10am.

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

  1. Online via Zoom and/or

  2. Enjoy a 24 hour replay

 

Natasha Villeneuve 30min Class 10:00am (CT)

Usual Class Rates apply: Drop in for $20 or buy a class pass and receive the class as part of your package!

Usual link for LIVE Online class (and receive 24HR replay)

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

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

Help us flourish in 2025

As a participant in the 30 day challenge program, you have been an important and integral part of our flourishing community around the globe. You have also helped encourage, develop and improve the members of our Soma teaching team. We appreciate you deeply.

  1. Thank you for dancing with us in the 30 day challenge program.

  2. Enter to win some great prizes when you complete our survey.

  3. You’re invited to a FREE jam this Sunday; Celebrate with Gratitude

We value you and your feedback. Can you help us flourish in 2025?

Please complete the following survey by Dec 4th to help us plan for classes in 2025.

You will be entered into a draw with the chance to win one of the following giveaways:

  • 1 x Annual Pass (Value $999)

  • 1 x Three Month Pass (Value $297)

  • 1 x Five Class Pass (Value $75)

Soma News

Helen on Retreat at Soma Cabin, Lake Cushman, Olympic Forest, WA

Howdy from Soma Ranch!

Have you enjoyed this week’s Full Moon? We have been mesmerized here at Soma Ranch. Also a reminder that the last time I posted a newsletter update was a month ago!

My trip to our Soma Cabin retreat was very special with daily yoga, meditation, walks, hikes and run. I felt a wonderful reset and am inspired to share this place and wonderful activities with others. Watch this space (I hope to share more next time…). For now check out a slide show below that shares photos that tell stories well. Lake Cushman and the Olympic National Forest and Park are truly magical.

Susannah Roland was a lovely regular attendee at our monthly cuppas at Soma, she met Helen soon after she moved to the area around 2009. They’ve been friends ever since.

Sad to share Susannah Roland died peacefully in her reading chair earlier in October. She is missed.

Thank you to monthly cuppa attendess for your support, connection and the wonderful words you shared about Susannah.

Natasha is teaching both Saturday Morning classes: Brain: Reflex + Voluntary in Nia 5 Stages, followed by an awesome adaptation of the latest Nia Routine Alchemy. Click the link to check out the great playlist of songs from 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s

We continue our November challenge with the Focus on Gratitude; 30 days, 30 classes,

I’m on my way to Budapest to provide the “Art of Communication” Nia Blue Belt.

Hope to dance with you soon,

love

Helen, (and Joe, Horses: Zephyr & Roger and of course Da Donkeys ;-)

Special Saturday Instructor, Natasha Villeneuve

Saturday 11/16/23 Soma Rock Star Nia teacher Natasha Villeneuve is teaching both the 8:45am Nia 5 Stages class and the 10:00am class.

Continuing our November month, where our focus is gratitude. We will focus on Brain, nerves, reflexive, voluntary and dance to Natasha’s adaptation to the latest Nia Routine Alchemy.

Nia 5 Stages

FOCUS: Brain: Reflexive, Voluntary

10am Nia

FOCUS: Brain and Nervous System

INTENT:  Engage movement patterns that stimulate both voluntary and reflexive actions and create new neural pathways

ROUTINE: Alchemy Adaptation

MUSIC: Groovy mix from 70's-2000's

COMMENTS: Consider doing something novel and new to feed your brain and stimulate new neural pathways this weekend! 

Playful Nia this week as we dance a 60 minute Alchemy Adaptation (moves of Alchemy to a mix of music from 70's, 80's, 90's, 2000's)!

“We danced it this week and students are singing and grooving along. They love it! I'd love to have you join me for this adaptation adventure online or in person” Natasha

Sat 10am CST Online via Soma Ranch

Let me know if you have questions.

Everybody Welcome!

There are some slightly "risky" songs but they have a light and playful vibe... Spirit in Sky Get Lucky Sexy Thing... I think our community is pretty chill….. Plus the "clicks" are amazing! So easy to teach Alchemy to this list.

We danced it this week and students are singing and grooving along. They love it!

There are some slightly “risky” songs but they have a light and playful vibe... Spirit in Sky Get Lucky Sexy Thing... I think our community is pretty chill….. Plus the “clicks” are amazing! So easy to teach Alchemy to this list.
— Natasha Villeneuve
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
 

Natasha Villeneuve 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

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

Monday Cuppa, 11am December 2

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 2nd.

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

R.I.P. Susannah Roland

With deep sadness I share that Susannah Rohland has moved to her beyond the beyond...

I am comforted imagining Susannah cozily surrounded by her beloved books, dancing with angels, free of pain and all things that can weigh us down.. Her effervescant personality, elequent sharings, pleasant chuckles, regular attendance and dear kindness will be remembered.

I met Susannah within a couple of weeks of buying Soma Ranch (back in 2009). We were both relatively new to the area and have enjoyed a very special kindred spirited friendship over the years. Though recently Susannah had put a pause on coming to dance, she was the most regular attendee of our monthly cuppa get togethers. Her regular, consistent, presence and contributions will be greatly missed.

Thank you Monthly Cuppas for St Jude

Our monthly “Community Cuppa” was a wonderful time for connection, conversation and support.

Dear Peggy, Diana, Kay, Cindy, Cece, Sabrina and Chris

Thank you for coming to Cuppa yesterday, your presence and share was deeply appreciated

We raised $35 for St Jude.

here’s the link to learn more and/or leave a donation 

https://www.somaranch.com/jude

Thank you for the delicious two cakes that were brought to our experience. 

Thank you Emily Shearer who was with us in thoughts and prayers. She left a sweet voicemail, I'm happy to share with you next time you come to class.

I hope you like the precious photos included here. Holding space for Susannah's chairm and sharing special things in her memory, was especially touching.

FYI I'm sharing photos, some information about our cuppa times and how Susannah attended every month with her brother, Michael. He, his family and some close friends shared joy seeing Susannah so happy and incredibly connected with an awesome group of women. We have fond memories and moments with her, that is for sure!!

love and gratitude

Helen

This event is a fundraiser for our ““Soma Charity Partner”. All donations collected go towards St. Jude.

We raised $35 for our 2024 fundraiser and we are 20% there with a total of $1803!

2024 Fundraiser Campaign

We truly appreciate these wonderful women and the community connection…

Our next “Monthly Cuppa” is Monday, November 4th.

https://www.somaranch.com/jude

Every dollar donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital counts! Take a look at some of the possibilities that your effort could provide to the kids and families of St. Jude.

  • Infant Care Supplies for 10 Babies: $50
    These supplies help parents and nurses care for babies in treatment and include items like diapers, baby bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, footies and heel warmers.

  • Wagon: $70
    Wagons can make traveling through the halls of St. Jude easier for parents and more fun for a young child.

  • Parties to celebrate birthdays, holidays and "coming off chemo": $75
    St. Jude provides parties, decorations, cakes and more to keep spirits high during the holidays and to celebrate special occasions like birthdays and a child's completion of chemotherapy treatment.

  • Creative Toys: $100
    Play is an essential part of every child's life, and it's important for the children to have fun as often as possible. At St. Jude, colorful, toy-filled play areas are just as plentiful as exam rooms.

  • Delicious Meals: $210
    St. Jude provides meal cards so that patients and families can enjoy the comfort and convenience of good, nutritious meals in the Kay Kafe, our cafeteria.

  • One Day of Oxygen: $447
    Oxygen is key to keeping the immune system strong. A gift of oxygen can help a young body thrive and help fight cancer at the cellular level.

  • Child-sized Wheelchairs: $700
    These special wheelchairs help children move easily through St. Jude.

  • Airfare for a parent and child: $1,000 Average
    For a patient referred to St. Jude, the hospital covers the cost of airfare for a child and one parent or guardian.

2023 Fundraiser Campaign

NOVEMBER Challenge of Gratitude Movement

Each month for 2024 we feature a New Fun Challenge (See full list below).

For the month of November welcome to our focus of "THANKS"

Focus: THANKS ~ “Through Movement we find Health”

Intent: To dance, explore and have an Attitude of Gratitude

Sign up: www.somaranch.com/booking/challenge

All 30 classes are provided online via Zoom with daily 24 Hour Replays provided.

The November Challenge is “THANKS” ~ bringing an attitude of gratitude, honoring and exploring how “Through Movement we Find Health”. Providing you with classes that provide exploration of

  1. Appreciation for the human body

  2. How to express gratitude through movement

  3. Reflect, Celebrate, Praise

Some class Foci will explore some essentials of the Human Body through movement for example

  • Sense squeeze and release ~ how your muscles hug your bones

  • Sense structure and space - how the spaces in between bring movement

  • Sense moving from underneath and behind - connecting with thanks for what has been

  • Sense seamlessness in body and life - no separation, all things connected

A month to help

  • improve competence and confidence of how we move through space

  • be in awe of the human body, potential and possibilities

  • 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/challenge

When you sign up for the November 30 day challenge by October 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.

Join Us in November: A Month of Grateful Movements
At Soma Ranch, we welcome you to embrace the spirit of grateful movements this November. Through movement, dance, awareness, and acts of service, we hope to embark on a transformative journey that will not only enhance our physical health but also cultivate an unwavering attitude of gratitude towards our bodies and lives. As we move together, we will discover a new perspective—one that appreciates the abundant blessings that surround us every day.

To join our November program simply click the sign up button, and remember, when you sign up by October 28th you get to share and bring a friend for free!

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

All for $99.

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE INCLUDES:

  • Your Body’s Way - The Body’s Way

  • Movement from Heart

  • Ground and Share

  • Creating a Sacred Life

  • Moving as one multifaceted system, with consciousness.

THROUGH MOVEMENT WE FIND HEALTH INCLUDES:

  • Systemic Movement

  • Holistic Integration

  • Breath with Body

  • Moving to Heal

30 Day “Journey with Movement”
Sale Price: $99.00 Original Price: $120.00

Join our ONLINE 30 day Soma class “Journey with Movement” for only $99

  • Receive a gift; 30 Day “Journey with Movement” with Helen & Friends, to give to anyone new to the program. (WHEN YOU REGISTER BY 28th of the PREVIOUS MONTH)

  • Receive LIVE classes + Enjoy 24 hour replays

  • 30 classes (Nia, 52 Moves, Feldenkrais, Moving to Heal, Ageless Grace)

  • 3 x 30 min 8am Classes + 3 x 60 min 10am classes a week (US Central Time)

  • 1 Weekly Nia 5 stages healing class

  • Great Beginners Introduction to Nia

  • Feel supported and stay motivated

  • Learn more about Nia

  • Learn the 52 moves of Nia

  • Learn about Nia 5 stages

  • Experience Feldenkrais Method

  • Experience Ageless Grace

  • Receive information about anatomy

  • Develop a healthy regular practice

  • Meet people from all over the world!

  • Be part of a fabulous community

  • Connect, cheer and encourage

  • Supportive Private Facebook Group.

  • Adapt to Your Body’s Way and Life

  • Learn about The Body’s Way

  • Combine LIVE class + 24 hour replays

  • Sustain Fantastic Somatic Movement every day for 30 days!

CLICK HERE to learn more about the 365 day journey with movement.

When bringing a guest for free for the month thank you for completing our “Bring a Guest” 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).

Fabulous 30 and 52 minute playlists

30 Day Movement Challenge, Soma Teacher, Paul Duff, created a fabulous routine for Tuesday’s “FreeDance” Experience. Helen was inspired to “sandwich” Paul’s songs into the Whitney Houston songs she’s working on for the Saturday morning class.

If you want to enjoy some great tunes through your weekend, we’ve included both Paul’s 30 min mix and Helen’s 52 min sandwich mix. Click HERE for more information about the “Best of Whitney Houston” experience on Saturday 10/19/24 with Helen.

Paul’s 30 Min PlayList

Helen’s 52 Min PlayList

RECORDING DAY 15 - UPPER: Connect with Expressiveness and Heart

FOCUS: Play

INTENT: Find movement variety

ROUTINE: FreeDance

https://music.apple.com/.../downside-up/pl.u-XMdLU20pWp

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2XbJjIYrevXfaDd2jvNQaX...

TEACHER: Paul

COMMENTS: Movement variety is one of the strengths of any movement practice. Using play and FreeDance is a great way to discover more of what is possible in our bodies. Have a week of glorious movement!

Soma News

Enjoying the Full Moon at Soma Ranch.

Howdy from Soma Ranch!

Have you enjoyed this week’s Full Moon. We have been mesmerized here at Soma Ranch. We also had a fabulous “costume time” with long time participant and Soma Friend Megan (check out photos below..)

Helen and Joe play Costume Dress UP.. maybe for a future fun day out (at Soma we’re only 15 minutes away from the world’s largest Renaissance Festival)

We’ve had a fabulous creative week in classes. Rock Star Soma Teacher, Paul Duff, created a fabulous routine for Tuesday’s “FreeDance” Experience. Helen was inspired to “sandwich” Paul’s songs into the Whitney Houston songs she’s working on for the Saturday morning class.

If you want to enjoy some great tunes through your weekend be sure to click the link and enjoy. We’ve included both Paul’s 30 min mix and Helen’s 52 min sandwich mix.-30-and-60-minute-playlists

Today Natasha shared a Fun Friday Creative class with new songs adapted to the new Nia routine Alchemy.

Check out more details, playlist AND A FREE 24 hour replay of this wonderful experience.

Helen is teaching both Saturday Morning classes: The Elbow Joint (Simple Hinge and Pivot Joint) and lower arm bones (Ulna and Radius) in Nia 5 Stages, Followed by “Best of Whitney” Experience at 10am.

Enjoy a video sample series that provides tutorials on the moves.

We continue our 3 month series “a journey through the body” with the focus on the Upper Extremities and Expression for October; 30 days, 30 classes, including Arms, Hands, Fingers, Expression and Movement from Heart.

Hope to dance with you soon,

love

Helen, Joe, Horses: Zephyr & Roger and of course Da Donkeys ;-)

Pick a Number Class

This morning Natasha (one of our Rock Star Soma Teachers) created a new “Pick a Number” class concept. She had been working with the latest Nia Routine, Alchemy, learning the choreography and developing the main movement patterns.

Here’s

  1. more inform about Natasha’s process

  2. a complimentary 24HR replay

  3. a sneak peak into “feedback/chat” after class with Helen & Natasha.

Natasha created a playlist with several fabulous songs for each of the movement pattern she had learned from “Alchemy”.

In our 30 day challenge program we enjoy bringing play, improvisation and community feels to our Friday classes. Today’s Fun Friday 30 minute class was no exceptions… Before class, we were asked to pick a number, this then determined which tune made the final cut. Natasha managed a beautiful balance between freedom and form, where she had a structure with regards which songs would match which moves, however she let go of the control of choosing which song would be selected. The process, concept and class were so cool we want to share it with you (compliementary). Simply click the link below and enjoy (FYI this link is time sensitive and expires in 24 hours.

Here’s how we send out our daily 24HR replays via email after the LIVE class experience:

RECORDING DAY 18 - UPPER: Connect with Expressiveness and Heart

FOCUS: Breath

INTENT:  To "breath" and circulate energy flow and healing through your upper extremities (arms, hands and fingers) in order to feel fabulous

ROUTINE: Alchemy Adaptation

MUSIC: Fun Friday Playlist

TEACHER: Natasha

RECORDING: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/9PAih_uKaU0aXvdkmCcBL3lrRoNlgf4EofOgbX8GPl7ORvqyhxjBiHGr1-8XdS3K.l6Rj2WyG4bPMLXWg

COMMENTS: I hope you have a magical Friday and weekend!

Kin 103: Blue Crystal Night

Your Galactic Affirmation is:
I Dedicate in order to Dream
Universalizing Intuition
I seal the Input of Abundance
With the Crystal tone of Cooperation
I am guided by the power of Vision

I will be teaching moves from Alchemy to an adapted playlist tomorrow and I need your help!
If you plan on attending our Fun Friday class tomorrow at 8am CT, please pop in 10 mins early. My playlist is currently 80 mins long and I’m counting on you to help me reduce it to 30 mins. Anyone who arrives early can pick a number and help me build the final list!
Let’s Dance! 😍
— Natasha's share/invitation before class

PLAY LISTS

Monday Cuppa, 11am November 3

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, November 3rd.

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

OCTOBER Challenge of UPPER Movement 2024

Each month for 2024 we feature a New Fun Challenge (See full list below).

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

Focus: UPPER, Arms, Hands, Fingers, Expressive Movement, Movement from the heart.

Intent: Connect with our expressiveness and how to move from heart.

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

All 30 classes are provided online via Zoom.

The October Challenge “The UPPER” is all about the expressive movement. Providing you with classes that provide exploration of

  1. 19 Upper Extremities Nia Moves

  2. Expressive movement

  3. Emotions in motion

Some class Foci will explore the essentials of Expressive UPPER movement, for example

  • Sense the spiraling of your 2 lower arm bones (Ulna and Radius)

  • Sense the your heart connection to your humerus (upper arm) bone

  • “Isolate to Integrate” sense the different parts of your upper extremities

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

  • Sense your upper extremities fully moving out and returning home (“home base”)

  • Sense palms up and down, to open shoulder girdle and release rhomboid muscles

  • Sense the relationship between your hands and heart

A month to help

  • improve your competence and confidence of your upper moves

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

  • 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/challenge

When you sign up for the October 30 day challenge by September 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 UPPER extremities of the Body include:

  • 30 bones

  • 7 main areas covered in the upper limb; The muscles, bones, joints, nerves, blood and lymphatic supply, anatomical areas, and the structures in the hand.

  • Shoulder Girdle (ball and saucer joint)

  • Upper arms (Humerus)

  • Lower forearms (Ulna + Radius)

  • Elbow (simple pivot - hinge joint)

  • Wrist (classified as an ellipsoidal or condyloid joint)

  • Hands + Fingers (carpal, metacarpals, phalanges)

  • The musculature of the upper limb is quite vast, much more so than the lower extremity

  • Upper Body Muscles include: biceps, triceps, and chest/arm muscles (rhomboids, pectorials,

The 18 Upper moves of Nia are:

A. Arm Moves

  1. Blocks

  2. Punches

  3. Elbow Strikes

B. Hand Moves

  1. Touch

  2. Strike

  3. Chop Cut

  4. Fist

  5. Pump

  6. Palm Directions

  7. Web Spaces

C. Finger Moves

  1. Finger Flicks

  2. Finger Extensions

  3. Creepy crawlers

  4. Spear Fingers

  5. Catch the Flies

  6. Claw hand

  7. Power Finger Cross-Over

  8. Balance Finger.

30 Day “Journey with Movement”
Sale Price: $99.00 Original Price: $120.00

Join our ONLINE 30 day Soma class “Journey with Movement” for only $99

  • Receive a gift; 30 Day “Journey with Movement” with Helen & Friends, to give to anyone new to the program. (WHEN YOU REGISTER BY 28th of the PREVIOUS MONTH)

  • Receive LIVE classes + Enjoy 24 hour replays

  • 30 classes (Nia, 52 Moves, Feldenkrais, Moving to Heal, Ageless Grace)

  • 3 x 30 min 8am Classes + 3 x 60 min 10am classes a week (US Central Time)

  • 1 Weekly Nia 5 stages healing class

  • Great Beginners Introduction to Nia

  • Feel supported and stay motivated

  • Learn more about Nia

  • Learn the 52 moves of Nia

  • Learn about Nia 5 stages

  • Experience Feldenkrais Method

  • Experience Ageless Grace

  • Receive information about anatomy

  • Develop a healthy regular practice

  • Meet people from all over the world!

  • Be part of a fabulous community

  • Connect, cheer and encourage

  • Supportive Private Facebook Group.

  • Adapt to Your Body’s Way and Life

  • Learn about The Body’s Way

  • Combine LIVE class + 24 hour replays

  • Sustain Fantastic Somatic Movement every day for 30 days!

CLICK HERE to learn more about the 365 day journey with movement.

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.