Maria Whitley is a somatic educator who offers group classes and private sessions in several Nia modalities and the MELT Method. Her passion is helping people feel at home and happy in their bodies through mindful movement. Maria creates a safe environment where students feel held and able to learn and explore movement that heals body, mind, spirit & emotions.
Maria has taught Music & Movement for over 20 years to young children and their families and the Nia Technique since 2008, when she opened Shine, the first integrative wellness studio in Louisville, KY. After 10 years of running the studio and supporting the work of others, she is happy to be out and about offering somatic education through holistic movement, primarily MELT & Nia. Now, wherever Maria goes, there is Shine!
Maria’s favorite client/student is one who is willing to step into a beginner’s mind and “new-to-me" techniques and explore how we can self-heal and care for our bodies through mindful movement. All levels of fitness can be addressed in both Nia & MELT, as both can be changed with skill and love.