A MUM-OF-TWO has launched the first holistic fitness sessions in the area.

Hanna Munro, from Ulverston, has set up Movement Magic – a mix of dance arts, healing arts and martial arts with a focus on joy and healing.

The 40-year-old is a qualified occupational therapist with her own business specialising in autism and sensory integration.

After noticing a demand for holistic fitness in the Ulverston area, Hanna has decided to set up her own classes and workshops.

She said: “Whilst I love my job, I wanted to do something else that’s a bit different which focusses on dancing and healing.

“I have a post-training in sensory integration so it’s a fun way of using that training too.”

Hanna will use the sensory-based movement practice, Nia, which draws from dance arts, martial arts and healing arts.

“It enables people to connect body, mind, emotions and spirit,” she said.

“Nia hasn’t quite reached our area yet but it’s a really great way to keep fit and engage the senses.

“And it’s at everyone’s level, you could do it in a nursing home seated or some people do it to get fit – it’s really flexible.

“It’s really joyful too. Once you get doing it, you can’t help but smile and feel good.

“The different classes aren’t just for adults like a keep fit class - there’s loads of scope for it.

“It can really benefit those suffering from chronic fatigue or depression and can’t just go to a normal exercise class. It really is for everyone.

“One of the benefits is it’s a type of fitness but you don’t know you’re getting fit.

“It’s not like a high impact aerobics class or a boot camp, but it actually is really good for you.

“You’re moving your body in a mindful way.”

Hanna is hosting her first Movement Magic workshop in February and hopes to run more classes in the future.

“I’m still testing the water at the moment, but I’d love to run lots of different types of classes: family sessions or sessions for older or disabled people.

“I’m booked in to do a retreat in the Lake District so I’d love to do more of that in the future.

“And I’ve love to do festivals at some point as well as weekly, regular classes in Ulverston. There’s also been talks of a silent disco in Barrow Park – it really is varied.

“I’m happy knowing I’m meeting a need for those who want it.”

Hanna will be running six workshops in Barrow, supported by Barra Culture, the first of which will be held on February 5 at Ford Park.

A limited number of places are still available for the first Movement Magic workshop. To book your spot, visit: https://fb.me/e/6z3Yv9pq6 .