The Beginner’s Guide To Belly Dancing

There is far more to belly dancing than shaking your hips whilst wearing an exotic sequined costume. The art form has ancient Egyptian origins and is a popular alternative to exercise, for many women. The fluid movements are designed to strengthen core muscles, and to improve posture, flexibility and tone. If you have been curious about exploring this expressive Middle Eastern style of dance, but are not sure what you might be getting yourself into, here are a few of the things that you will learn at belly dance classes.

Free Expression

It’s natural to feel self-conscious when you are dancing. Belly dance courses offer a safe and comfortable women-only environment in which you can freely express yourself. Belly dance is not reserved solely for people who are body confident and fit. If you have a negative body image, belly dancing can help you learn to love your body, and to feel proud of yourself on the dance floor.

Getting Started

To learn the basics of belly dance it’s important to find a reputable dance school. Arabian Rose Bellydancing offers Taster classes and all experience levels from beginner to advanced. You can therefore learn at a pace that is comfortable for you.

At belly dance London classes you’ll learn all about the origins of this exotic style of dance. You’ll discover the history and culture of the traditional music, and how to move your body to improve flexibility and strength. It’s recommended that you choose a class that is suitable for your level of experience.

Working With The Breath

Most people hold their breath when concentrating on learning new dance moves. Your professional belly dance teacher will show you how to breathe correctly so that you can master how to shimmy and breathe at the same time.

Using Your Arms

Beautiful fluid arm movements add the wow factor to your belly dance moves. Some of these movements however, require dedicated practice. To avoid spoiling your belly dancing efforts, with arms that hang about or are uncontrollable, it’s helpful to pay attention to how you use your arms as a beginner. Belly dance advance levels will teach you how to use your arms gracefully and expressively, to enhance your performance at belly dance shows.

Mastering Techniques

As you begin to recognise the different rhythms and styles of bellydance you will gradually learn the correct movements. You’ll master a range of techniques from traditional and more modern styles of belly dancing. If you discover that bellydancing inspires you, you may decide to continue studying through the different levels. Teacher training courses provide the perfect opportunity to turn your love of dance into a business.

The Gear

Whilst belly dancing is famous for its decorative and embellished traditional costumes, you don’t have to dress up in all the gear from the offset. As a beginner you can dance in whatever feels comfortable. Leggings or a long, flowing skirt, offer the greatest range of free movement. You can wear soft dance slippers or choose to go barefoot.

As you progress, you’ll have an opportunity to use authentic accessories like veils and double veils, Isis wings, swords and sticks to enhance your dance experience.