Frequently asked Questions FAQ's

These questions are frequently asked by people who want to know more about Bellydance. They are curious and would like to start to dance for Health, Beauty or Spiritual Reasons. Because Bellydance is such a large topic, these questions are asked frequently by newbee's.

Where did Bellydance originate? You can visit up to 1 thousand different bellydance websites and get 10 thousand answers. I have found the most valuable site is Shira's Bellydance site. But don't think that is the only source. If you visit our Links Page, you will find yourself on a treasure hunt. So be sure to pour yourself a cup of tea and enjoy.

Should I loose weight before I attempt bellydance? This is something I get from all ages of women. They misinterpret that dance is strictly for pencil thin models and that no one wants to watch a more voluptuous or younger dancer. Visit my own site for more information. The answer in short NO, but loosing weight if done correctly and for health reasons is always a smart idea just for everyday living!

Is Middle Eastern Dance the same now as it was 100 years ago? Do they wear the costumes we are familiar with here? The answers in short, Yes, Not necessarily. The modern dance in the West is of course done in costumes that we do not deem inappropriate. Of course Countries in the Middle East would like to see more modesty, as they tend to be more conservative when it comes to Women's Dress. Read up on the history of bellydance and be sure to visit sites that talk about each Country in the Middle East. Like any question, the answers are many, and what may be acceptable in a Western European restaurant, may not be acceptable in a more modest Iranian or Iraqi City.

Is Bellydance expensive to "get into?". I always preface this with "No But" because as with any modern hobby, it depends what you want to buy. Of course dancing is free. It should not require any money to dance in your own home. But if you wish to perform or take lessons, you would have to pay for lessons in most cases, and wear the appropriate physical attire. Costumes are only needed if you plan to dance with a group that is choreographing a piece or if you want to perform solo and set a tone for the act.  Most ethnic dance, from any Country, has a certain "authenticity" if dress from the region is presented with the dance.

Is Bellydance or Middle Eastern Dance good exercise? Not only is it good exercise, for the body, but any physical activity is good for the spirit. Bellydance is specially good since you utilize the core or strength muscles of the trunk to stable and be balanced. There are not allot of foot movements, and sustained activity requires endurance. Of course you must practice posture, alignment and control. All of these are good exercise techniques that can be done sitting or standing. Dance also teaches you grace and to not push the body beyond its owned trained limits, so short answer, YES.

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