WHAT IS BELLY DANCE?

This millennia-old art, mostly (wrongly) known in the Western world as ¨belly dance¨, became a very efficient system of increasing the self-esteem and the femininity of women.

Raks Sharqui (Arabic for “oriental dance”) is not only an ancient art but also a very healthy exercise, a form of entertainment, a way of expressing body language. The essential movements are natural: circles, spirals, infinite-like shapes… Its roots get lost in history, since this art is older than writing itself. It has an universal characteristic since, all throughout the history, different civilizations have danced using similar movements.

Most western people come to classes for fun. Not only dancing is entertaining but it has also a lot of therapeutic advantages. While dancing, dynamic movements combine with slower ones, thus generating harmony and equilibrium in the body, both at emotional and inner level.

How does it act at physical level?
-It strengthens the muscles
-Corrects bad postures
-It is beneficial both for the digestive and sexual system
-Improves blood flow
-Improves body coordination

How does it influence the emotional and the psyche?
-Unblocks tensions and emotions, gives peace of mind and creates an overall sensation of wellbeing
-Reinforces self esteem
-Leads to awareness and assertiveness
-Helps to discover the inner essence
-Unfolds the femininity: its ondulatory and wavy moves free the feminine spirit
-Connects the energy centres of the body
-It can be a source of inspiration

Anyone can dance, no matter the age since it is not demanding at the beginning level, nor does it require any kind of physical preparation or a certain body type. Even more, in the past, dancing was used during pregnancy. And even though the majority of the belly dancers are women; more and more men want to connect with their feminine side. Practiced regularly, belly dancing helps you connect with the inner self and explore what happens with your body and soul, in other words, with your life.

Discover it
We encourage you to take a look at belly dancing as a healthy and entertaining alternative to the typical physical exercises. Try for yourself a free class at the Sarabi School.