Belly Dance or (Oriental dance) is about
5000 years old. Dance is one of the most ancient forms of art and was
a mixture of many cultural elements. There were dances to celebrate
weddings, births, victories. There were also dances for
homecomings, passages of seasons throughout the year as well as a
person’s life. Dancing was one way people bonded with their culture,
environment as well as socially. Belly dancing has for centuries been
considered the sacred of women.
Belly Dance echoes the natural rhythms
throughout a women's life, beginning with childhood and the joy of
open movement; the journey into puberty to increase body awareness and
supports healthy self - esteem in preparation of womanhood. The
rhythms of dancing have a soothing effect during childbearing years,
calming the effects of painful monthly bleeding, headache, migraines,
and cramps. Many women begin to belly dance during menopause claiming
this changing time as a way to make up for what was missed, while give
more attention to health. Traditionally, belly dance was a way for
women to prepare and recover from childbirth. The basic movements of
hip drops, hip lifts, shimmies, figure 8’s, belly rolls, and
undulations, it engages and strengthens all the muscles in the
stomach, pelvis, and abdomen.
Health benefits of Belly
dancing
Physically, because the participant is on
their feet, it is considered a good weight bearing exercise routine.
Belly dance is good for blood flow, lymphatic drainage, massages vital
organs, and aids in digestion. The basic movements work with the body
rather than against it. Belly dance is a wonderful way to increase
flexibility and strength to the spine with the gentle undulations that
stretch and lubricate the muscles, tendons, and ligaments along the
spine. Posture plays a key role in stretching and creating space
between the 33 vertebras of the spine.
Emotionally and spiritually, belly dance
a great way to reduce stress; its subtle rhythms along with the
movements have a calming effect for your entire being. The movements
of stretching, strengthen and lubricating of the spine as well as
creating space and releasing tension between the 33 vertebras and the
spinal cord. This has a calming effect on the sympathetic and
parasympathetic nervous system. The subtle movements of the trunk
massage the vital organs, supports the endocrine system by increasing
endorphins and dopamine production. This creates a sense of well
being. Many women have been mistreated sexually during their life.
Belly dancing is a loving way to experience the gentle healing of
their sexuality within the safety and support of other women.
Belly dancing Increases
Energy and calms the spirit
As a moving meditation, Belly Dancing
opens and nourishes our energetic skeleton. This includes the Charkas,
12 Organ meridians and the 8 Extraordinary Vessels that enrich your
body, and spirit while it calms the mind. The Hara has been called the
strength below the navel and plays a key role in general energetic
balance and Eastern philosophy. Meditation is a way to calm the mind,
sooth the body from the stress of daily life. Moving meditation as in
Chi Gong, Tai Chi, and many forms of Martial Arts helps to center and
calm you into a peaceful present place. Belly Dance is another
opportunity to experience the body, spirit, and mind connection.
Jeannie’s Belly
Dancing Classes will be offered at:
Strathcona Gardens Recreation Center
Wednesday from 6:30 - 7:30 March 3,
2010
This class is now taking registration
through the front desk.
Quadra Community Center
Monday mornings & Friday Afternoons will continue until May 2, 2010.
Family and Friends - Some
enjoyable Ideas
Bellygram
This exciting performance is about 10-15
minutes in length and is a sure to liven up any party and surprise the
guest of honor! Great for retirements, family birthdays and
celebrations.
Afternoon Retreat
Great for those who would simply like to
try something new and fun, and offers opportunity to share time with
friends and family. It's a wonderful idea for birthdays, gatherings or
just to enjoy a few hours of fun, food, and laughs with other
inspiring women you know.
Middle Eastern Drumming with Bruce &
Rebekah
Please call Bruce or Rebekah for further
details 923-6858
or check with Jeannie’s Blog for current
events.
