Healthspan + Joyspan: A new recipe for Ageing Well
We’re hearing a lot these days about healthspan: not just how long we live, but how well we live. And alongside it is a wonderful concept called joyspan*: making sure those extra years are filled with purpose, connection and joy.
That’s exactly what Nia offers us.
A Nia practice supports healthspan by improving flexibility, balance, mobility, strength and cognitive function, helping us stay active and independent as we age. But it also nurtures our joyspan.
Our June Gathering was a beautiful reminder of this. We danced, laughed, moved, created, and shared meaningful moments together. We left feeling uplifted, energised and more connected to ourselves and to each other. Healthy ageing isn’t just about adding years to life, it’s about adding life to our years, and that’s the gift of Nia.
If you’d like a glimpse of the joy we shared at the June Gathering, click here to watch a short video.
Nia Australia Association President
*Inspired by ‘Joyspan’ by Dr Kerry Burnight, as featured in Time
The Gathering was true community effort. Thank you for sharing, teaching, presenting, organising or volunteering your time, creativity, passion and JOY. Together we created something truly special.
Kitchari
If you’d like to try the BYC recipe click here –
KITCHARI RECIPE
The Nia Australia Events page is your go-to place for workshops, trainings and community events. Following are just a few of the opportunities coming up.
Nia Art of Sensation – a Wellbeing Immersion
Magnetic Island QLD
25-30 August 2026
🌊✨ Imagine six days in a beautiful natural setting, immersed in somatic practice and nourishing movement.
A space to restore your nervous system, deepen body awareness, and experience greater aliveness, health and wellbeing.
Art of Sensation is Nia’s foundational training and somatic certification.
You’ll explore practical, embodied tools to:
- enhance vitality
- deepen sensory awareness
- refine movement skill and body literacy
Open to both new and experienced students. Come as you are and join a supportive circle of connection, learning and growth.
✨ Investment
USD $1599 (take advantage of the stronger Australian dollar)
USD $500 deposit secures your place
Balance payable in AUD prior to the start date
Accommodation not included – we’re happy to share options
👉 Register now
https://www.niaaustralia.com.au/belts/
Questions or want to check if it’s right for you?
📧
Event: 52 Moves Training – Brisbane
Dates: 26-27 September 2026
Trainers: Laurie Bass + Sophie Marsh
Location: Windsor Community Centre QLD 4030
The language of Nia is its 52 Moves.
Whether you’re new to Nia or have been dancing for years, this two-day immersion invites you to deepen your relationship with Nia’s foundational movements. As you refine your technique, you’ll discover how each move can optimise the body’s natural conditioning and healing potential while bringing greater ease, awareness and embodiment to your practice.
For Nia teachers, the training also provides practical tools and inspiration for creating engaging 52 Moves classes that support your students’ learning and development.
No prior Nia training is required. Everyone is welcome! Register here
Event: Nia Art of Communication
Dates: 29 Sept – 4 Oct 2026
Trainers: Sophie Marsh + Laurie Bass
Location: Paddington, Brisbane, Old
The Art of Communication is the second level of Nia education, and explores how to create healthy relationships through body-centered communication.
Sophie and Laurie don’t just teach the 13 principles of the AOC – they embody it. Their warmth, presence and genuine connection create a learning environment where these principles come alive.
Save USD $50 when you register by 13 July using the code NIASAVE50.
Already a completed the AOC (Blue Belt)? You can resit the training for less than half the regular investment! Register Here
Event: Conversation with Virginia Woods
Host: Amanda Downing
Location: via Zoom (link sent closer to the date)
Lifelong dancer, dance movement therapist, Hakomi somatic psychotherapist, Nia teacher, and retired psychologist, Virginia Woods has let dance guide both her life and her work. Many of you experienced her wisdom and warmth at the Gathering. Join us for an inspiring conversation as Virginia shares how dance has shaped her life, career, and lifelong passion for movement.
Cost: Free for Nia Australia members; $10 for non-members. A copy of the recording will be provided to all registered participants.
Register for Conversations and Connections
Curious to explore further?
👉 Find an upcoming Nia Art of Sensation training
👉 Learn more about joining Nia Australia
Click here to find an IN PERSON class near you
Click here to find an ONLINE class