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The Dance: for the mind, body, and soul.

By Bryna Jacobs

State Press Magazine

When the majority of Western culture thinks of belly dancing, sexual, sensual and seductive images probably come to mind. Perhaps we imagine women dressed in provocative costumes, revealing their bare stomachs, slowly moving their hips to the beat of mesmerizing music.

But is this what belly dancing is really all about?

After speaking with professional belly dancers the truth was revealed. And the stereotypical view of Middle-Eastern dance could not be further from the truth. The question then becomes, what really is belly dancing?

Misconception number one: Contrary to popular belief, belly-dancing was not invented to arouse men. Traditionally, this dance was done for women by women, no men involved. Belly-dancing actually centers around the concept of relaxation, a liberating dance for both men and women that can be both therapeutic and highly enjoyable. It is when people get distracted by skin exposure that they do not see the true meaning behind this dance.

Misconception number two. Belly dancing is only for young, beautiful, skinny girls with flat stomachs and huge breasts. Not so -- you can be any shape, age or size to belly dance, no restrictions apply. The largest audience you will see for a Middle-Eastern dance event will be a show by dancers for dancers. No runway models, no physical perfection from head to toe.

Misconception number three: Women who shimmy around all sexy and alluring are belly dancing. Belly dancing has a few elements that are similar to Hula, Gypsy and Indian dances, but these dances are all different. Hula and Indian dancers use their hands to tell a story.

The dances performed by Gypsy tribes have much more in common with folk dances of Eastern Europe than with dances of the modern Middle East. The European dance that is probably best related to belly dance is flamenco, which developed from Middle-Eastern dance when the Muslims ruled Spain.

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