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Belly Dancing: A Sexy History
Historians debate the exact origins of belly dancing – some posit that it originated as a tribal dance in ancient Arab religions to honor the goddess of fertility, while others maintain that it was always designed for pleasure and entertainment. The dancing girls depicted in ancient Pharaonic times are thought to exhibit typical belly dance poses. Whatever the beginning of the art, it was popularized in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries as Western artists began circulating romantic, idealized images of harem girls dressed in gauzy scarves and bells. Soon Middle Eastern dances were popular at international events such as the World Fair, drawing large crowds of curious onlookers.
Today, women of both Middle Eastern and European ancestry engage in the practice of belly dance. The costume most commonly associated with belly dancers in the West is the "bedlah," which is actually a product of Western fantasy rather than a culturally or historically accurate garment. It consists of a tight, fitted, elaborately decorated bra-like top, often fringed in coins or beads, a fringed, fitted hip belt, and loose, flowy harem pants or a long skirt. In Middle Eastern countries costumes are very different; in Egypt, for example, it is illegal to display the midriff or excessive skin. These dancers have had to adopt clothing that shows off the body's movement without showing off the assets of the woman dancing.
Tribal dance is a US variation on belly dancing that has sprung up in recent years; it incorporates many different types of dance movements, and draws inspiration from flamenco, ballet, burlesque, hip hip, and even hula hoops! Tribal dance is fluid and graceful. Because it is so relaxed and flexible, many physically challenged people including the elderly and those with disabilities have been able to enjoy the experience of tribal dance.
There are numerous health benefits associated with belly dancing, mainly those drawn from the regular practice of low impact, high intensity cardio activities. Traditionally certain belly dance moves have been used to aid the process of childbirth in Egyptian culture, and belly dance is thought to relieve certain menstrual problems.
For those interested in further exploring the art of belly dance, there are a variety of options. Many recreation centers and dance studios offer belly dancing lessons, and there are a variety of home exercise videos offering instruction as well. Don't imagine that a perfectly tight, toned body is necessary to enjoy belly dancing; this art form is designed to celebrate female bodies in all their earthy, sensual glory!
About the Author
Photographer Ara Hovsepian has a great respect for the techniques, costumes, and style of belly dancers in both the East and West, and enjoys taking regular photos of belly dancing events. For more tips on dance and women's fitness, visit www.dancebellydancing.com.
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