The term “bellydance” is usually used as
a general term that encompasses many styles of dancing from all over
the Middle East and the surrounding areas. The most notable feature
of bellydance includes the isolated movements of the upper and lower
body combined with the graceful, expressive use of the head, arms,
and hands. Because variations of bellydancing can be found in so many
countries, and even varies within countries, it is known by many names
including: Middle Eastern Dance, Oriental Dance, Raqs Sharqi (in all
of its spelling variations), Oryantal Tarsi, Ouled Nail, American
Tribal, Danse du Ventre, and Cabaret style.
Although no one knows exactly when or where
the tradition of bellydance began, it has been proven to be more than
2000 years old. Bellydancing, in one of its many forms, has been danced
in ancient Egypt as a sacred temple dance celebrating fertility and
life. Depicted in ancient artworks from pyramid walls (where the belly
is known as the ”cup of life”), to Indian paintings showing dancing
girls celebrating weddings.
It is known that the dance was taught throughout
a woman’s life to strengthen and prepare her body for childbirth;
a practice still found in remote areas today. Because women grew up
with this dance, and the society of men and women were so strictly
separated, women would dance for each other as entertainment within
the home. Until recently, bellydancing was simply a joyous expression
shared by the women in families and friends to be danced at get-togethers
and happy celebrations.
Because bellydancing grew in a culture of
women, many see it as a pure expression of femininity. Its movements
are perfectly suited to the female form, regardless of age, shape,
or size. Many students are initially attracted by the spiritual aspect
of bellydance, which has been used as a source of meditation, celebrating
the feminine through hypnotic, sinuous movements. The fact that it
has thousands of years’ worth of female development and tradition
behind it usually instills a sense of empowerment within students
and followers.
Since bellydancing was developed for women
by women, it also works as a great form of exercise that complements
the female form. Alone, it provides a low-impact workout, building
cardiovascular endurance, stretching the muscles, and stimulating
the entire body- head to toe! It can also be exciting and fun, using
faster movements to slim and tone while burning away fat. Many have
reported improvements in back troubles and posture due to the strengthening
of the abdominal and back muscles!
Whether you take up bellydancing because
of its profound history, physical wellness, spiritual awareness, or
simply because of its beauty; you will find yourself falling in love
with it. In this ancient art, you will discover that regardless of
age, shape, or background, you are perfect for bellydancing!