About Bellydance
Today bellydance is enjoyed worldwide and
is taught in almost every country and city. This dance has been the expression
of many bellydancers and because of it, each style is presented differently,
all combined with backgrounds and the creativity of your teacher. For
centuries this dance has been if not the most alluring and fascinating
of all. The elegance of the hands and swaying of the hips transform any
woman or girl into an art. Bellydance is designed for
all women of all ages, and body types. Focusing on their bodies and being able to move them in
very special ways, helping the body stay healthy and fit.
The Belly Dance is identified by swaying hips, undulating torso, and articulated isolations employed in a range of dynamic and emotional expressions. Characteristic movements in the dance include curving patterns, undulations, thrusts, lifts, locks, and drops, and shaking or quaking body movements. The focus is on isolated movements of individual parts of the body with little notice given to the footsteps. Arms and hands move fluidly, like serpents or ribbons in the air. Unusual strength and control is demonstrated in the belly area.
It is ironic that while traditionally Middle Eastern women have been discouraged from or censured for pursuing a career as a bellydancer, many Western women embrace it as a means of rediscovering themselves and nurturing a stronger personal identity and sense of empowerment. This is why we bellydance, and this is what we promote: A stronger you!
Why Bellydance?
Aside from the joy inherent in learning a beautiful dance art, enthusiasts report a wide variety of benefits gained from the practice of Middle Eastern dance:
- Satisfaction from achieving new levels of physical mastery
- A feeling of camaraderie, community, making new friends
- Strengthening, reshaping and renewed acceptance of one's body
- Greater freedom and range of self expression
- Relief from back pain
- Familiarity with different musical styles and cultures
- Spending time for yourself
- Bringing joy to others
- Girl time
- Fun Fun Fun!