Since 1994, Kelly has been studying African-inspired, belly dance, Sufi techniques, tribal-trance, tai chi, and yoga.  In addition, she has devoted considerable study to the healing arts, including Reiki, chakra healing and balancing, meditation, and massage.  She began her study and practice of Nia in 1999 while she was pursuing her Masters degree in Environmental Science. While her career as a wildlife biologist/conservation ecologist has focused on the care of the outer environment, Kelly’s foundation always moves from the care of the inner environment where body±mind±spirit are integrated.   In 2004, she became certified as a Nia Technique instructor, enabling her to manifest her dedication to encourage, inspire, and support each individual’s pursuit of integrative body±mind±spirit awakening, healing, and empowerment.  Kelly utilizes Nia to encourage individuality and personalization within a group setting, motivating her students to use their voice and to empower themselves to make choices that are centered in their body’s wisdom.  “It is my intention to share Nia’s gifts, to be a catalyst of positive change for others, and, by treating each person as a whole being, to heal the body±mind±spirit through movement.” Her study of the techniques and principles of Nia is on-going: she earned her Blue Belt in 2005, her Brown Belt in 2007, and her Black Belt in 2009.