“If you want to start loving your body, teach it to move in ways you never thought it could …. Bellydance.” – ShimmySista
Probably, belly dance is the world’s ancient feminine art. Even the walls of the tombs, erected by the orders of the Egyptian pharaoh Akhenaten in the 14th century BC, are painted with scenes depicting a belly dance in great detail.
“If you opened the dictionary and searched for the meaning of a Goddess, you would find the reflection of a dancing lady.” – Shah Asad Rizvi.
The choreographer was a bee
The legend claims that this erotic oriental dance was created quite by accident. It was the entire bee’s fault. Bewildered by the delicate floral aroma emanating from the oiled body of a young dancer, confusing her with a flower, a bee flew under her thin dress during the performance. Frightened by the uninvited guest, the girl began to rotate her hips and stomach with all her might to get rid of the bee. It was as if her hips and stomach were competing in mobility, teasing and provoking each other. The grace with which she made the movements delighted those around her.
“I think the female forms are so beautiful that I’m sure belly dance was created when a drummer watched a woman walking down the street. The sway of her hips was intoxicating and pulled the rhythm right out of the drum.” ― Carolena Nericcio.
“Imagine this: there was a time in history, a long time ago, when the bounce & sway of a woman’s hips was considered so beautiful that they set it to music and made a dance out of it.”– Carolena Nericcio
Main elements of belly dancing
Belly dance is based on four main elements:
- Staccato movements
- Fluid movements
- Shimmies, shivers and vibrations
- Horizontal and vertical figures of 8 (infinity loops) with the hips, horizontal or tilting hip circles, and undulations of the hips and abdomen
The arms are used to frame and accentuate movements of the hips, for dramatic gestures, and to create beautiful lines and shapes with the body.
The biggest secret of belly dancing
The secrets of belly dancing are carefully passed down from generation to generation. Why? Not just for beauty. In Arab countries, the fertility of a woman is still her main advantage in the eyes of the majority. From early childhood, Arab girls begin to be taught special exercises, which are the basis of belly dancing. Daughters diligently adopt from their mothers the ability to control the body, move beautifully and gracefully. These simple movements allow girls to strengthen the muscles of the core, upper and lower back, abdomen, and hips, which play a major role during pregnancy and childbirth.
According to a survey by the British magazine Empire (2008), men consider belly dancing to be the sexiest dance on the planet.
“The lapis lazuli worry beads, draped over his rear view mirror, swung back and forth like the hips of Scheherazade, Mohammed’s favorite belly dancer, who refused, in spite of the war, to leave Baghdad.” – Leslie Cockburn
10 Health and beauty secrets of belly dancing
Belly dancing is an excellent tool to maintain body harmony and seductive forms. Even with age, Arab ladies move easily and remain amazingly flexible and gracious. According to the research of modern scientists, oriental women are less likely to suffer from cervical and lumbar radiculitis, less prone to scoliosis and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
A woman, performing a belly dance, can be completely transformed – the woman seems to turn into the master of all natural forces. Light as the wind, hot as the flame, and the waves that smoothly pass through the female body like sea waves …
“She who is a dancer can only sway the silk of her hair like the summer breeze.” ― Shah Asad Rizvi
Secret #1 – Female pelvic organs health
The so-called “shaking,” the movement that not only look very seductive, but also cause a rush of blood to the female pelvic organs, and this, in turn, increases sexual activity and enhances sensibility. Thus, by regularly practicing belly dancing, you can improve your metabolism, increase sexual potential, ease the course of the menstrual cycle, and prepare your body for pregnancy and childbirth.
Secret #2 – Core strength and stability
Belly dancing focuses on isolating and controlling movements of the abdominal muscles (including the abdomen, hips, and pelvis), which, in turn, promote core strength and stability. This can lead to better posture, enhanced spinal alignment, and improved overall body control. It’s important to note that core health is not solely about achieving a six-pack or aesthetic goals. It is about developing strength, stability, and functionality of the deep core muscles to support overall health and well-being.
Secret #3 – Sensual and sexual
Belly dance is one of the most sensual dances. Its movements are full of femininity and grace. Skillful execution emphasizes the dignity of the figure and attracts men’s attention. And with such an accessory as a scarf made of airy fabric, the dance acquires a special charm.
“Dancing with the veil feels holy, powerful, graceful, and feminine.” ― Rosangel Perez
Secret #4 – Full-body workout
Belly dancing is a form of exercise that can provide a full-body workout. It engages and strengthens various muscle groups, including the core, hips, thighs, and arms. Regular practice can improve flexibility, balance, coordination, and stamina.
Secret #5 – Cardiovascular health
The rhythmic movements and continuous motion of belly dancing can increase heart rate and promote cardiovascular fitness. It helps improve blood circulation and can contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system.
Secret #6 – Physical fitness
The movements involved in belly dancing can help tone and shape the body. It targets muscles in the hips, waist, and abdomen, contributing to a more sculpted appearance.
“Move your hips, and the rest will follow.” – Unknown.
Secret #7 – Weight management
Regular physical activity, such as belly dancing, can contribute to weight management and help burn calories. It can be a fun and enjoyable way to engage in physical activity, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
Secret #8 – Self-confidence and self-expression
Belly dancing encourages body awareness and a connection between mind and body. It allows a woman to express her unique style and personality through movement, promoting self-expression and self-confidence.
“Be proud of who you are; love your body regardless of what form it takes, and leave the world a better place than when you found it. Dance.” – Amity Alize.
Secret #9 – Stress relief and mental well-being
Belly dancing is an excellent stress reducing technique. Engaging in belly dancing can be a form of stress relief and a means of expressing creativity and emotions. It can promote mental relaxation, self-confidence, and a positive body image.
Secret #10 – Rhythm
The dance movements are often accompanied by traditional Middle Eastern or North African music, which sets the rhythm of the dance and happy mood of the dancer. It removes all negativity from the mind and body making the dancer happy.
“I think the female forms are so beautiful that I’m sure belly dance was created when a drummer watched a woman walking down the street. The sway of her hips was intoxicating and pulled the rhythm right out of the drum.” ― Carolena Nericcio, Art of belly dance: a fun and fabulous way to get fit
*****
Many women find belly dancing to be a joyful and empowering activity, celebrating the beauty and health of the human body. It is commonly practiced in dance studios, workshops, and cultural events, and there are communities and festivals dedicated to belly dance enthusiasts worldwide.
Belly dance will teach you how to move beautifully and keep your posture. And although at first it will be difficult for you, but in order to feel the gaze of men behind your back, it’s worth the effort.
“You have heard the call of the wild, something beyond your usual horizons is calling you. Belly Dance doesn’t call every woman, so if it knocks on your door, I believe it is trying to give you a gift uniquely suitable to you.” – Shemiran Ibrahim.
By scrtnata221
