We held our Christmas party recently and as expected, the office was required to perform a number in groups. Despite our protests, our group had picked belly dance as our performance.
Of course, there were some complaints from some of my groupmates, with even one calling out that belly dancing is like stripping and as good as adult entertainment. That’s when my bomb ticked off, looked at her like she’s hopeless and began explaining to her that belly dancing is in no way X-rated.
So, What Exactly is Belly Dancing?
Take it from me who just started out belly dancing classes at Bellydance Haven:
The history of belly dancing is thought to have started in the Middle East and Africa, eventually making its way in western cultures as a form of cultural dance and entertainment. Come the 21st century, the genre has received considerable popularity worldwide.
While it has a rich history, belly dancing has always been a subject of several misconceptions. One idea is that it was a form of adult entertainment—a misconception that is likely to have developed in Western societies in between the 1800s and 1900s, due to the fact that Europeans and Americans didn’t understand behind its movements.
In particular, the torso movement is thought to be immoral in a society where women had to wear corsets. As if it’s not enough of an insult, the Westerners had thought of the Middle Eastern societies as more sensual and rational than them.
But, of course, these were the old times and people should know better than think of belly dancing as adult entertainment. I went on educating my workmate about belly dancing and its several health benefits.
Why People Should Try Belly Dancing
It Builds Your Self-Confidence
The flashy belly dancing outfits may seem uncomfortable and make you feel conscious. But, in my experience being part of a belly dance class in Singapore, it can actually help build your self-confidence. It allows you to express your personality and emotions. I don’t know about you but belly dancing has offered an amazing way for me to express myself.
Costumes Don’t Have to Be Skimpy
Consequently, if the costumes really make you feel conscious. You don’t have to wear the skimpy ones as portrayed on TV at all. There are costumes that are designed to cover a large part of the body. It all just comes down to your style and preferences and nobody would mind it.
No Six-Pack? No Problem?
Before I joined belly dancing, I thought the activity was meant for the young, skinny, and those who are confident with their bodies. But, in fact, it was actually for those who see their bodies negatively. It helped me learn to love my body and feel proud of it. It may not help me achieve my dream of six-pack abs, but at least it’s helping me develop a strong one.
It may not be the best performance in the office, but our belly dance number was the most fun I had during our Christmas party. About my workmate who used to criticize belly dancing—she will join me in my belly dance classes in the next weekend!
