A lot of women seem to have a growing interest in learning the art form of belly dancing even though men have loved to watch the dance for years. There is a lot to learn when it comes to getting it all done but the mental and physical benefits that come with it are just too good to pass up. If you want to get in a lot better shape or want to add a little spice to your normal routine, try learning belly dancing, as you will be happy you did.
But as with everything in life, there are options to pick from, as belly dancing is just not belly dancing. There are several different types and forms of belly dancing to be aware of so you must consider which you would be more interested in. One of the more popular types is that of the tribal bellydancing.
Tribal bellydancing has been used for many years as a form of celebration and communication. Women have used the various dances and routines in their tribal bellydancing to get across a certain message or story. For modern woman though, this is just something that is used more for fun then anything else.
Taking Classes
While there may be a tape or two out there promising to teach you the basics of tribal bellydancing, nothing can compare to being taught in person. Being in a classroom setting will allow you to catch on quicker and to learn slight variations and tips that could help you that your otherwise would have never learned about.
Learning such skills from a tape is generally not advised, as you could also get hurt without the proper instruction. Learning directly from a professional is always the best thing no matter what it is that you are trying to learn in this lifetime.
There are a lot more classes offering tribal bellydancing then there ever used to be before as there has been an increased interest in it. What that means for you is that your chances of finding and actually getting into a class that offers lessons on tribal bellydancing is a lot better then it used to be.
Just start searching your local paper for advertisements or your local yellow pages for more information on classes near you. If that does not work well for you, head to the computer and jump on the Internet as you are bound to be overloaded with lots of information from there.
July 29th, 2008
You may have heard that there are many different types of belly dancing. It is quite normal for any art form that has been influenced by so many cultures to be varied. Belly dancing varies primarily according to where it is performed. Tribal belly dancing is a branch of belly dancing that you may have heard of.
The thing is that there is no true form of tribal belly dancing, though the name may lead people to think that it is an authentic form of the dance. It is in fact a fusion of styles inspired by ethnic elements. Dancers who admire it in different parts of the world have then further adapted this art form.
A Question of Authenticity
The reason that there is no true picture or form of tribal belly dancing is simply that there is not enough information. At the time when ‘real’ tribal belly dancing was being practiced there was no documentation of the dance. If there was documentation such as pictures, painting or oral histories, they are no longer in existence.
Instead what we have today is a dance that has taken different elements from the various tribes of the Middle East and made it into something completely different. Usually elements of Turkish, gypsy, Moroccan, Algerian, and frankly whatever strikes the dancers fancy are incorporated into a routine.
Costuming and Style
There are also no authentic costumes in tribal belly dancing. The costumes are mostly inspired from what the dancer might believe tribal women wore. Usually the costumes are one-piece costumes rather than the traditional two-piece costumes worn by most belly dancers.
The fact that the nomadic tribes that inspire these modern day costumes probably borrowed and were influenced by other tribes and cultures makes this approach to costuming particularly appropriate. The great thing about this is that you can really choose whatever you feel suits your body and dance moves.
While traditional belly dancing of the Egyptian and Turkish traditions tend to be slower and more sensuous, tribal belly dancing tends to be faster paced. The dances usually have a more energetic and exuberant feel to them. Singing, clapping and ululations may also be incorporated into the routine.
The music also reflects this type of dance form and less classical instruments usually accompany the dancing. This is a great style of dance to experiment and explore. It gives dancers a lot of freedom to choreograph. A little research will help to inform and create something that is at least close to the original dance forms that inspired this genre.
July 27th, 2008
Lebanese Belly Dancing, like belly dancing in Egypt and other Arabic countries have had productions of song, dance and acting. There have been Lebanese Belly Dancing shows and it is often referred to as the Oriental Dance.
This dance can be held in the same category for the Lebanese as ballet and opera to the Americans and Europeans. The music is so soulful and passionate that it can bring tears to your eyes. Much of the music is based on famous artists, especially hailing from Egypt.
Looking at Tthe Future
With the political situation in Lebanon, the future of Lebanese Belly Dancing is uncertain. Even though the dancers earlier brought in a lot of revenue into the country, the art of belly dancing was not favored by the Islamic religion. The young people of Lebanon believe that Belly Dancing is old fashioned and hence it is not used as a form of entertainment in other Arabic countries too.
Form
Lebanese Belly Dancing, like any other form of Belly dancing consists of swaying the hips breaking into dynamic expressions. The patterns used in the dance are curves, thrusts, lifts, locks, drops and shaking body movements. The belly area is the point of concentration and the footsteps are not important. The arms and hands move in a serpent-like manner.
Costumes
Lebanese Belly Dancing celebrates women, their life and creativity, their beauty and especially the beauty of their body. The costume of the dancer changes from place to place, but the skirt, bra and the hip-belt are the main parts of the costume. The dancer often plays finger cymbals and sometimes there is a music accompaniment.
Women Power
All the designs of Lebanese Belly Dancing emphasize and enhance the grace, power and independent control of the feminine form. It can be a fertility dance as well. Sometimes men participate in the dance too, but it is mainly done by women. The dance originally comes from the folklore tradition of the Middle East and still portrays the culture of the Middle Eastern countries.
The Egyptian and the Turkish Belly Dance is by far more popular in Europe and America, and the style has been modernized to suit new trends. But the culture is still borrowed from tradition and in many small villages and small towns of Lebanon, it is danced when there is a celebration.
Belly dance is gaining popularity worldwide, but the future of dance is extremely uncertain in Middle Eastern Countries. But there is still hope that Oriental Dance will flourish once again in its hometown like Lebanon.
July 25th, 2008
The term belly dancing is not in fact the way that the originators of this form of dance call their particular way of dancing. It is, in fact, something that has been coined by westerners to describe a particular style of dancing practiced by Arab dancers. If you were to visit an Arabic country, you would most probably be bemused to learn that what westerners term as belly dancing is actually known only as oriental dance, while some Americans even have termed it as a Middle Eastern dance.
What’s more, Americans are not particularly taken up with belly dancing. To learn belly dancing you would need to look high and low and more particularly amongst ethnic populations whose enthusiasm for belly dancing knows no bounds. However, even those who are involved in belly dancing cannot agree as to where belly dancing actually originated.
Thus, opinion varies between those who say it is really an Egyptian form of dancing while others believe it has to do with people from India migrating to Rome. However, rather than get embroiled in the controversy about where belly dancing originated it is a much better idea to learn belly dancing.
Nothing Quite Like Learning From an Instructor
Of course, there is in fact, no better way to learn belly dancing than to have an instructor show you the ropes and be the one that will guide you through every stage of the learning process. In case, you are having trouble learning belly dancing, you can always ask questions and get your questions answered till you are confident of performing the steps in the proper manner.
In case you need to locate an instructor from whom you want to learn belly dancing, then you should go through the yellow pages. Check out restaurants where dancers perform, check the city’s local Parks & Recreation department, and check out the many websites that offer non-credit classes.
However, it is not always possible to learn belly dancing from an instructor. So you may be forced to use DVDs or even ask for instructions over the Internet. In fact, it is possible to learn belly dancing via the World Wide Web. Places such as Aziza Sa’id’s Lessons Online could prove to be useful in case you needed to learn Hip Lift as well as Drop and Shoulder Shimmy. Finally, you can also learn belly dancing through watching DVDs and a particularly resourceful video is the one known as Middle Eastern Dance Video Sourcebook.
July 23rd, 2008
Istanbul belly dancing is a huge tourist attraction. Nightclubs everywhere offer special shows meant for visitors. However, Istanbul belly dancing is not just for tourists. Belly dancing is very much a part of Turkish history and culture. It has evolved with time but it has its roots in many different types of cultures that have helped to shape the dance into its present form.
There are certain characteristics of the dance that are unique to Istanbul belly dancing in terms of costume and props. It was traditionally meant for the eyes of women only as this was considered a sacred dance that celebrated fertility.
Costume and Props
The traditional Turkish costume for belly dancing involves a long skirt with a high slit. This skirt emphasizes the leg and Istanbul belly dancing involves the dancer’s legs more than other types of belly dancing. Although there is such a thing as belly dancing slippers it can sometimes be performed with high heels and platform shoes.
Turkish belly dancers also play zils, or finger cymbals during performances. Purists say that a dancer can only be considered skilled if they can play the finger cymbals while dancing. Four zils are usually used, two for each hand. They are very small and it can be difficult to master playing these tiny instruments and dancing at the same time.
The dance style of Istanbul belly dancing is also very different than that of Egyptian belly dancing. This is because there are fewer restrictions on Turkish belly dancing. Turkish dancers are allowed to do floor work and to incorporate pelvic thrusts into their shows unlike Egyptian dancers. Turkish dance also tends to be more gymnastic and energetic, rather than slow and sensual.
Modern Culture
Istanbul belly dancing is still very much a part of everyday life in Turkey. It is still a popular custom for a belly dancer to perform at weddings. Belly dancers are also called on to entertain at circumcision ceremonies for young boys. Television programs also feature belly dancing and there are quite a few famous belly dancers that are celebrated both in Turkey and around the world.
Turkish belly dancing is distinctly different from its Egyptian variant and watching a performance will most definitely be breathtaking. It is truly a display of grace, agility, and showmanship. It is guaranteed to be a fun night for everyone present. One performance is enough to make you want to take this exquisite dance form up yourself.
July 21st, 2008
A lot of times women will find that they want to learn something new and exciting that will not only allow them to have fun but will help them get into great shape as well. Also, on top of having fun and giving their bodies an excellent workout, learning new things by taking classes is a great way to socialize and to meet new friends. These are just some of the reasons so many women have found themselves wanting to learn egyptian belly dancing.
Egyptian belly dancing is something that is not only fun to do but is something that can help entertain others or even spice up a dull love life. Some women have found pole-dancing classes to give the same results but because of fears of judgment, other women have found their way to egyptian belly dancing classes. These classes are just like any others where you warm up, learn the basics, and then slowly progress into the more difficult routines. Before long, students taking egyptian belly dancing classes will find themselves dancing like professionals.
Finding Classes
Ten years ago it would have been next to impossible to find any classes or centers that were offering egyptian belly dancing classes and lessons. But now, as more and more people are starting to express in interest in it, most cities have at least one class on it and the bigger cities have been known to have several different places that are offering eqyptian belly dancing.
All you really need to do is to keep your eyes open and your ears open and before you know it, you will learn about some fun and exciting places to take classes. Even try asking your friends if they have heard of any place that would be offering such classes, as word of mouth advertising is a great resource.
If you do not happen to come across any places that offer egyptian belly dancing by chance, then it is time to start your search. Looking on the Internet is a great place to begin because if there is a business or a class anywhere near you offering egyptian belly dancing classes, they will more in likely be found on the Internet. Also, you could always scroll through your local yellow pages to find a place near you. In the end, you will be glad that you gave it a try as your body and your mind will feel so much better.
July 19th, 2008
Belly dancing is now very popular due to its import to the rest of the world via video clips and famous dancers. Now everyone wants to learn to belly dance. If you want to see where it all started then you should look for Cairo belly dancing. This is where the dance started, from the time of the Pharaohs, and is a tradition that is still present in modern day Egypt.
Things have changed since the time of ancient Egypt when belly dancing was revered and held a central part in Egyptian culture. Today Cairo belly dancing faces some obstacles but authentic shows are still available for the curious. No visit to Egypt is complete without a belly dancing show.
Avoiding Tourist Traps
If you ask any taxi driver or hotel employee for the best place to watch a Cairo belly dancing show they will most likely direct you to Al Haram Street. The dancers in this place may not be Egyptian; lately there has been an influx of foreign belly dancers into the scene. This has not affected quality as many of these dancers are skilled and have learned from Egyptian dancers.
This is partly due to the fact that there has been a crackdown on what can and cannot be done in regards to belly dancing. Authentic Egyptian dancers have been discouraged with new conservative laws dictating what can be worn and performed.
If you would like to explore places other than this popular tourist destination then you will have to pay a little extra. The authentic Cairo belly dancing experience is to be had at the 5 star hotels. This is where the famous belly dancers perform. You will most likely have to book in advance and there will be a dress code.
Other than the hotels and nightclubs you can also experience Cairo belly dancing by boarding a ship that will provide you with both dinner and entertainment. A cruise like this may be a little steep but it’s good value for money. You will have a wonderful buffet dinner, a cruise on the Nile, and the beautiful dancers entertaining you all night.
However you choose to experience Cairo belly dancing it is likely to be a magical night. There is nothing quite like the ‘real’ thing. You will go away feeling like you have been transported, temporarily at least, to a magical world. The time when Egypt was an empire, when the Pharaohs ruled, and the dancers danced without restriction.
July 17th, 2008
Anyone that has performed belly dances will vouch for the fact that it is an activity that provides loads of entertainment to both those who perform belly dances as well as to those who view belly dancing being performed. In fact, belly dancing allows dancer to bond with other dancers.
It provides a wonderful workout as well as is very sensual and it brings dancers a lot closer to their body as well. However, buying belly dancing outfits can prove to be costly since the costs add up considerably. Even if you are buying belly dancing outfits for the purpose of practicing belly dances, it can still prove to more costly than you bargained for.
Buy Quality Items
However, provided you consider a few thoughtful measures, you will be able to save on the costs of belly dancing outfits. The first tip in this regard would be to buy only items that are of good quality even if you plan to use them for practice dancing. You need to ensure that your belly dancing outfits have the right quality in as far as fabric and stitching go. Workmanship should also not leave anything to be desired. You should also try and match colors and so, circle skirts or harem pants could be chosen in black or white or even a single bright color.
You also don’t want to compromise on quality when it comes to khussa shoes which are essentially used when dancing on concrete surfaces. These shoes should in fact, be in colors that are neutral to ensure that they match with the rest of your belly dancing outfits. Another tip when it concerns belly dancing outfits is to select items that can easily be mixed as well as matched and thus you will need to opt for solid as well as basic colors.
Another important tip that can help you save money when buying belly dancing outfits is to go for items such as short skirts (cholis) as well as bangles that don’t cost too much, and which can even be used for normal daily use. If you want to affect even more savings on the cost of your belly dancing outfits, you should try and get the other belly dancers to join you in placing a single big order.
Thus, buy your outfits at wholesale prices as well as even save on the cost of shipping, and in addition, even wrangle discounts off the seller. Hopefully, these tips will show you how to get the most out of your belly dancing outfits’ purchases and you should also be able to economize on the costs.
July 15th, 2008
Wearing wedding rings and other jewelry may sometimes cause irritations and allergic reactions. The ring itself it not to be blamed for this but rather one of its content called nickel. Nickel is being used by jewelers to harden their products. The problem would arise when you do not know that you are very sensitive to nickel. The wedding ring dermatitis is another form of nickel contact dermatitis that could be gained from prolonged exposure to nickel. Additionally, the disease can also arise from wearing wedding rings 24/7/365, thus giving no room for the skin beneath the ring to breathe.
Nickel allergy is commonly caused by even the minute amounts of nickel particles coming into direct contact to the skin, which was predisposed with sensitivity to the particle. There are other kinds of this allergy but the most common to married women is the wedding ring dermatitis. This disease has been proven to be treatable though you might think twice before wearing any jewelry with nickel content. The wedding ring dermatitis is not so different with other allergic reactions; once you are allergic to nickel, you will always be allergic to it. The best way to determine if you are sensitive to nickel and prone to wedding ring dermatitis is to undergo an allergen test in your local hospital.
As with any form of irritants, the longer you are exposed to the irritant or wearing your wedding ring the higher the risk of developing wedding ring dermatitis. Another factor that might contribute to wedding ring dermatitis is the existence of a pre-determined eczema or atopic dermatitis condition.
On the other hand, you should not fret upon reading this information because there are several measures that serves as necessary precautions for wedding ring dermatitis. You can apply a mild topical steroid on the area of the finger wearing the wedding ring. However, there is a caveat that steroids are known to thin the skin when used continuously. Another precaution you can practice is applying a coat of nail polish underneath the wedding ring. This method can test your patience since nail polish periodically flakes off. Always keep the skin on your ring finger dry and occasionally place your hands into a sink full of water.
Treating Wedding Ring Dermatitis
If you have practiced the necessary precautions for wedding ring dermatitis but still developed inflammation on the skin, maybe it is necessary for you to avoid wearing the wedding ring at all and opt for something skin-friendly. The application of medications for wedding ring dermatitis, as with all kinds of contact dermatitis depends on the severity of the disease. A 1% hydrocortisone topical lotion applied directly on the inflamed skin can help relieve the itchiness, redness, scaling and swelling. This product is available over-the-counter and can be in the form of either ointment or cream. However, for sever cases of disease it is necessary to seek professional help. The physician will recommend a stronger steroid medicine to apply on the affected area and it can also be given as an injection.
July 15th, 2008
There are many mental images that are sure to form in your mind whenever you start thinking about what exactly belly dancing music is. Among these images you would also find yourself thinking about the sun going down behind those wonderful Pyramids of Egypt. Perhaps you would also be moved by the sounds of exciting and eclectic techno beats. You may even begin to imagine dancers wearing tribal Gothic costumes of dark shades.
Eclectic Mix of Various Styles
Belly dancing music is an eclectic mix of different styles of belly dancing. The music is definitely influenced by the pop music of Egypt as well as some amount of Latin music. Even Saidi traditional rhythms are also included with a dash of Bollywood (India’s Hollywood) thrown in as well.
Thus, in case you are planning on choosing belly dancing music, it would be a good idea to select something that is inspirational and which makes you want to continue dancing. It should also reflect your personal image as well as your dancing style. Some people, however, feel comfortable in choosing belly dancing music that is more Egyptian because that is the music that traditionally has been associated with belly dancing.
You might also have come across a good example of belly dancing music in the form of Show Me by Ofra Haza that is a mix of mid-eastern pop, Saidi, as well as Beladi. Though the music may sound pretty alien to the uninitiated, it is nevertheless something that certainly helps facilitate better belly dancing.
In fact, listening to belly dancing music may even remind one of being in a nightclub. Though the music may be unfamiliar to your ears, it will nevertheless move you into performing some dance steps, even if you move by instincts rather than know the belly dance itself.
In any case, when you listen to traditional belly dancing music it will reveal its oriental influence. It is also often characterized by a lot of spontaneity. When dancing to live music, it may in fact, lead the belly dancer into following many new directions. However, modern belly dancing music has become more choreographed than the traditional forms, thus there is a subsequent lack of spontaneity.
In fact, in modern times, not the entire belly dancing being performed is actually using traditional compositions. The new influence of modern pop music seems to be changing the very texture of the belly dancing music.
July 13th, 2008
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