EMBERS TO ASHES

Every month I highlight a Siva Afi (Fire Knife) move and share tips & tricks on how to better execute it.

This month’s move: VILI LIMA LUA or 2-HAND SPIN

VILI LIMA LUA is either used to show speed or as a transitionary move into different moves. Every Fire Knife dancer should know this move by heart.

LEARN THE VILI LIMA LUA (2-HAND SPIN) HERE!

Tips & Tricks

1. CHOOSE YOUR CATCHING HAND

Sometimes Fire Knife dancers prefer to catch the knife either OVER or UNDER their rotational hand. There is no strict option over the other when it comes to the catch, so choose what feels best for you.

Pro Suggestion: Learn how to catch the knife BOTH ways!

2. LEARN BOTH DIRECTIONS

It’s easy to only focus on one direction for your front spin and to neglect the other. Mastering both directions will open up significantly more combos and a variety of moves for you to develop further down in your Siva Afi journey.

Pro Suggestion: Try closing your eyes when you spin! This will develop muscle memory in place of vision.

3. PRACTICE ON DIFFERENT SIDES OF YOUR BODY

Becoming comfortable with spinning not only in front of you but also on your sides will help you add a dynamic layer to a very basic move. It can also help you transition into other Siva Afi moves down the line.

Pro Suggestion: Experiment with other angles and planes that you can spin!

These are just some methods that have helped me develop my moves better. Use them however you please as you continue your Siva Afi journey. If you have any further questions about Vili Lima Lua, you can send me a message at [email protected] and I’ll try my best to get back to you with answers or suggestions!

Keep on training and I’ll see you next month.

Be What Remains.

— Embers