Out of all the types of self-care there is ONE that has been linked to the greatest determining factor of someone’s overall health: SOCIAL self-care. In a world where so many of us are feeling isolated, on computers all day and overwhelmed – it’s time we bring some “old-school vibes” back!
Looking for something fun to try with the whole family, that has made a HUGE comeback since the 80’s/90’s it will get your heart rate up, boost your social life and enhance your brain health?
Look no further than local Line Dance Sensation, Niko Takaoka, founder of Surf City Line Dance. It is an experience you don’t want to miss – and her warm, welcoming energy is the greatest bonus.
Niko has an inspirational story, I am thrilled to share as I hope it will inspire someone else to take the PLUNGE on a dream.
I met Niko over a decade ago while training Fitness Instructors The Popular Jillian Michaels “Bodyshred” method. We hit it off instantly, her personality is bright and calm, passionate and enthusiastic – I reconnected with her years later while hosting a 30 day Self- Care challenge.
She reached out to me expressing her life shifts and how she was feeling extra life stress, from her beloved mother passing, to not feeling motivated and stuck – she was wanting a shift and not sure how to move the needle. When asked what her DREAM self-care looked like, at that time she mentioned wanting to launch a line dancing brand but having NO idea how to make it reality. She has worked a steady job for many years and the idea of launching something was intimidating.
Over the 30 days, she not only crafted her brand, website, assets, launch date – she was what we would consider a A+ student in every way. Showing up for herself and also others in her life knowing it was time. She LISTENED to her inner voice. And teamed up with other women in the group who supported each other every step of the way.
She kicked off her first class at the Old Saloon on Portola and that morning I called her and said she wasn’t sure if anyone would show up..
Niko had over 50 people show up that night! Ever since last April, she has had weekly classes, led private events, pop ups all over the bay area! Her and her husband Johnny are pioneers in the bay area and I got to experience it with my whole family at the Woodhouse Brewing Co and Niko had over 100 people dancing together, laughter, joy and a great workout!
May this story be one which inspires you to take time and listen to what your heart is telling you. Usually there is a whisper and often we try to pretend we don’t hear it. Niko said “the support has been life changing, I know I am not alone and we have create this big community and we love each other!” She continued sharing, “People are telling me each week how much fun they are having and the new friends they are making. They look forward to dancing each week. It is bringing joy to the community which feels so good. The best part is we have all ages from 8-90 years old dancing together and having a great time!”
Niko is especially humble and when I asked her how the community can support her she said the best thing is to come out and try a class – no experience required, all ages and you can come with a partner or even on your own and make new friends!
Be sure to follow surfcitylinedance.com/ and check out a class. Niko hosts weekly classes and does lots of private events – so you can even book her for yours.
I asked Niko what she has learned from this experience, “if there is something you are passionate about and want to try it – GO FOR IT!”
Jaime McFadden is the #1 Best Selling Author of “Waves of Self-Care: It Takes a Village” jaimemcfaden.com
