Playing poi, a traditional Māori performance art and circus skill, offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Poi involves spinning tethered weights in rhythmic, flowing patterns, and it can be an engaging, full-body workout that promotes coordination, flexibility, and strength.

 Physical Benefits:

- **Coordination and Motor Skills:**

Poi spinning requires intricate hand-eye coordination, which enhances motor skills. As movements become more complex, performers develop better control over their body movements, improving dexterity and balance.

- **Strength and Flexibility:**

Poi encourages dynamic, full-range arm movements, promoting flexibility in the shoulders, arms, and wrists. Regular practice also strengthens the upper body and core as you stabilize yourself while spinning.

- **Cardiovascular Fitness:**

Poi spinning can be a moderate to high-intensity cardiovascular exercise, especially when performed with faster rhythms or for extended periods. This enhances stamina, endurance, and heart health.

- **Joint Mobility:**

The circular motion helps maintain and improve joint mobility, particularly in the arms, shoulders, and wrists.

 Mental Benefits:

- **Stress Relief and Mindfulness:**

Poi’s rhythmic and repetitive movements create a meditative, flow state similar to activities like yoga or tai chi. This promotes mindfulness, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of inner calm.

- **Boosts Cognitive Function:**

Learning new poi patterns and sequences exercises the brain by improving memory, focus, and problem-solving abilities. The challenge of mastering intricate moves keeps the brain sharp and engaged.

- **Emotional Balance and Confidence:**

As one becomes more proficient in poi, there is a growing sense of accomplishment, which boosts self-confidence and emotional resilience. Poi can also serve as a creative outlet, allowing people to express themselves through movement and rhythm.

- **Social Connection and Community:**

Playing poi often brings people together in group settings, creating a sense of community and social bonding. Whether performed in cultural events, dance workshops, or circus skill classes, poi fosters connection and shared joy.

By combining elements of dance, fitness, and mindfulness, poi offers a holistic way to enhance both physical and mental well-being.

Play poi and poi making workshops are all free to attend we only ask at poi making workshops for the cost of materials to make a pair of poi. Play poi sessions are free, we have poi available for use at sessions or you can bring your own poi. Donations are welcome to help with costs.

Pixie poi's has run play poi and poi making workshops at the following festivals, events and groups:

Poi play and poi making in the community 2002 - 2005

Mental Health Support Group 2017 & 2018

Covid 19 Zoom Poi Lessons + daily exercise in small group 2020 & 2021

and also at the following:

Performing fire poi at NoFit State Circus Finale 2010