Bellydance is the common Western term for Middle Eastern Dance. Native to North Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, belly dancing is based on one of the oldest social dances in world history though the details its origins and history are unclear due to a lack of factual information. It is clear that over the years the dance has been influenced by many styles and cultures. Some theories say that bellydance:
- descended from indigenous dances of ancient Upper Egypt
- descended from Greece, spreading with Alexander the Great
- had been a part of traditional birthing practices in the region(s) of origin
- had spread from the migrations of the Romani people (also called "gypsies") and related groups, descended from the Banjara of Rajasthan in northwestern India.
- originated in Uzbekistan, traveling to India through the slave trade. (1)
Wherever it began, the dance has a long history in Africa and the Middle East and has now made its statement in the United States. The American Tribal Style Belly Dance, or ATS is a Bellydance style that originated in the United States. Every year in the U.S. more fusion and personal styles are added into Belly Dance. So much so that it has become one of the most diverse dance forms within the U.S. to date.
Many see Bellydance as a woman's dance, celebrating the sensuality and power of being a mature woman. Many women have decided to take bellydance lessons in schools all around the world but Bellydance is not just being pursed out of a love of the art. It has become one of the best ways to exercise and keep healthy. Bellydance works out every part of a person’s body individually, strengthening the arms, legs, abs and obliques. It is less strenuous than other forms of exercise like weight lifting and is more entertaining than sitting on a bike at the local gym. Bellydance is also suitable for all ages and body types, and can be as physical or gentle as the participant chooses.
Most importantly, belly dance was specifically developed for the female body and is an art that has been perfected for thousands of years so why not give it a try?
(Information gathered from Wikipedia.org. For more information go here.)
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