Vol. 5, No. 10, October 2008
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Shake Your Booty
Belly dancing, faddishly popular during the 1970s, makes a comeback
Belly dance as a form of exercise does more than work the belly. It tones the spine and pelvis, shapes the legs, and strengthens little-used muscles in the hips and the small of the back. Done regularly, the dance leads to better posture and improved flexibility, and also helps strengthen the bones. Best of all, this sinuous, sensuous dance simply makes a woman feel more womanly.
Acclaimed belly dancer Soraya, who lives in Margate and has performed everywhere from Casablanca to India and Morocco as well as at Atlantic City’s casinos, says the ancient art form is not just good for your body. It’s rejuvenating and empowering for your spirit.
“Any movement is good for your health, but belly dancing really celebrates the feminine archetype,” she says. “A lot of hip-hop videos now use the steps, but I don’t want it to be seen as just another bump-and-grind. It’s a natural way for women to move; it has an artistic flow.”
Soraya shuns Westernized belly dancing for authentic Lebanese, Arabic and Egyptian moves. Though she prefers to emphasize the cultural value of the dance, there’s no denying it’s a great way to tone up.
“Oh yes, the dance is very athletic,” she says. “It helps to cut a nice waist and it’s very good for the calves, thighs, glutes—pretty much the whole lower half of the body.”
Belly dancing (or raks sharki) also helps to sculpt the arms, which are often held aloft to frame the body; classic moves like snake arms challenge and isolate most of the muscles of the upper torso.
Want to shimmy-shake to a great shape? While nothing takes the place of a qualified instructor, dancer Anne Marie of NJBellyDancing.org recommends several videos:
• Fat Chance Belly Dance, Volume 1 with Jamila Salimpour, “an innovator of both tribal and American cabaret styles.”
• Flex Appeal: A Belly Dance Workout with fitness guru Kathy Smith. “The video includes a lot of standardized moves, and includes a performance by Ansuya, who is revered among local dancers.”
• Anything by renowned dancer Amira Mor.
For inspiration, we also recommend the videos of renowned Delaware Valley dancer Najia, who has performed not only in Atlantic City but throughout the world. For more information, visit www.philadelphiabellydance.com.
An ideal training regimen for aspiring belly dancers might include dancing three to five times a week for an hour or so, Anne Marie says. But don’t overdo it.
“Building strength and flexibility takes time,” she says. “Making the connections not only physically but mentally takes a lifetime. Learning belly dance is a journey, and one that should be enjoyed along the way.”
Good Scents
Ever notice how some fragrances just lift your spirits? Aromatherapy uses essential oils (from plants, flowers, roots, seeds, etc.) to provide a natural boost, encourage feelings of relaxation, promote better sleep and even alleviate depression.
While the therapeutic effects of certain aromas haven’t been clinically proven, there’s no disputing the benefits of essences like eucalyptus and clove, which are the primary ingredients in many cough remedies. And a recent MSN test study shows that lavender may in fact have the calming qualities claimed by aromatherapists.
Why do certain scents evoke certain positive responses?
“Aromatic oils stimulate the olfactory and other sensory organs, which are linked to different areas of the brain that control emotions,” says Caroline Ranoia, of Seafoam Soap Company in Wildwood (www.seafoamsoapcompany.com). “No fragrance will relax you, but an essential oil will, and lavender is one of the best natural sleep aids.”
Ranoia recommends a drop of lavender, chamomile or jasmine oil in the bath or on a light bulb to infuse your home with these relaxing oils. Other popular aromatherapy oils include:
• Rosemary for concentration
• Chamomile for relaxation
• Peppermint or spearmint for energy
• Sage for muscle aches and pains
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