BACKGROUND
I’ll never forget the thrill of my first Tap performance at age 5. From that moment on, my passion for the art of dance became an integral part of who I am. I went on to study Ballet, Modern, African Dance, and Jazz. Each form of movement tapped new wells of creativity and expression that profoundly shaped my outlook on the world. At the age of 25, I found Nia, which is a beautiful integration of Martial Arts, Dance Arts, and Healing Arts. I taught Nia classes and workshops for 17 years. As a psychotherapist, I have also trained in Mindfulness practices, emotional regulation and expression that very much informs my movement practice.
Emerge Movement is a totally unique experience because each class is based fully in the present moment. I create all my choreography in the moment based on the intersection of the energy that the group brings and flow of the music, allowing the movements to emerge. Music playlists are fresh creations for each class that help students access movement variety through my playful and joyous approach.
CLASSES
The Emerge model is Connect. Move. Emerge. Each Emerge class begins with the group conducting a Body Connection, a contemplative practice of tuning into our physical, mental, and emotional bodies. The goal is to discover where our bodies are at in this moment. Next, a theme is introduced to bridge/inspire our mental and physical health as we move. Some themes are: playfulness, creativity, beauty, self-love, body acceptance, etc. Class ends with a return to a Body Connection where students observe what has emerged in their bodies, minds, and hearts...
EVENTS
Emerge Costa Rica Retreat
Nov. 17-23, 2024
Emerge Retreat 2024
PlayaGrande,
Guanacaste-
Costa Rica
Arrive Sunday, Nov. 17 after 2 pm
Depart Saturday, Nov. 23 after noon
Retreat cost is $2900, excluding airfare and any additional excursions.
Once registered by payment in full, you will receive an email about arranging your international flights to and from Liberia, Costa Rica
GROUPS
As a Mental Health Therapist, I feel honored to hold space for people to examine the most intimate and profound parts of themselves. I think movement and dance offers another pathway for people to access their best and most full selves. Integrating the two, dialogue and mindful reflection with movement is the most embodied way to heal.
I created Emerge Empower as a format to offer these two modalities. This group structure combines dialogue and group process with movement and body connection. The focus of this model rotates – currently, I am offering a series for Sexual Abuse Survivors. The group is 10 weeks in duration and open to 8 women. We begin group with a group check-in that threads each week together. Next, I introduce the theme for the current group and I guide an Emerge Movement experience that allows us an opportunity to connect with this theme. Finally we have a group process/dialogue to share our experiences.
Please contact Erika directly to find out more about this group and for pre-screening.
HOSTING
Emerge Movement is an invigorating experience. It is perfect for ladies gatherings, milestone events, conferences, and organization or company team building events. Emerge Movement creates group bonding, allowing your group to help craft the music experience and themes.
To host an event at Studio Sol or at your location, please contact Erika directly.
To host an event at Studio Sol:
1. Request a date and time.
2. Payment of $100 is required to secure your class. A detailed payment amount will be dependent on the size of the group.
3. Studio Sol maximum participants is 12 people.
LOCATION
Counseling Office & Studio Sol
3500 NE MLK Jr. Blvd., Suite 200
Portland, OR 97212
