Belly Dance Blog | Belly Motions

Belly Dance Music 101

Belly Motions Team | February 21, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a post from Portia, Founder, CEO and Artistic Director at Belly Motions.

So you’ve just taken your first Belly Dance class ever…or you’ve been dancing for a few months…or maybe even a few years and gosh darn it, you still don’t understand the differences in “Belly Dance” music. Well, I’m hear to give you the breakdown…and it sounds something like this…

First, “Belly Dance” music comes from a variety of countries in the Middle East, North Africa, Asia and Europe. There’s Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey just to name a few. Each one of these countries have their own history, culture and MUISC!

Next, it’s important to understand that most Belly Dance music can be broken up into 3 genres:

Folkloric / Traditional
Classical / Oriental Orchestra
Arabic Pop / Modern Belly Dance

Arabic Musicians playing Folkloric Music

Folkloric, or traditional music, is the “original”, often “rural” music of a country and is often danced to socially by men and women during festive occasions. Different rhythms and instruments are used to represent specific dances, rituals or religious practices that have been passed on from generation to generation. Each country has it’s own unique folkloric music. For example, the “Saidi” rhythm originates from the countryside of Egypt, and has an earthy drum beat notoriously accompanied by the Mizmar, a horn that makes a whiny sound. This music signifies the Tahib dance (stick dance) for Egyptian men and the “Cane Dance” for women. Similarly, Debke, another earthy rhythm, signifies a patriotic dance of Lebanon.

Folkloric music is very rich and ethnic in sound and has a contagious beat. Folkloric music is often captured live due to its improvisational style (think garage band jamming in the middle of the desert!) but can also be produced in a recording studio.

Classical, or “Oriental Orchestra” music is more sophisticated not only in rhythmic and melodic structure but also by the variety of instruments used. Violins, Ouds, the Canoune and a variety of other string, wind and percussion instruments are often utilized in this orchestral music. Think of Classical music as a type of “Beethoven” or “Chopin” music but with scales, progressions and flavors of the Middle East not Europe. Classical music is perhaps the most challenging music to dance to due to its unpredictable rhythms, melodies and structure.

Classical music often takes time to digest, memorize and comprehend. It can allow a dancer to be extremely creative and artistic in approach. Classical music can be captured live or produced in a recording studio.

Classical Orchestra Music

Arabic Pop or Modern Belly Dance music is typically 4X4 in nature, commercial and is “easy to listen to”. Just as we have Katy Perry and Enrique Iglesias as Pop singers of American music, the Middle East also has similar icons that come with similar music…and images. Arabic Pop / Modern Belly Dance music is produced in a recording studio utilizing synthesizers, fake instruments and sound bites and effects to add unique and modern feel to traditional music. Some Modern Belly Dance music can sound similar to “Techno” and other new age beats. Arabic Pop music is usually played at parties and clubs and is great for practicing and dancing to because of its predictability.

Whether you are a Belly Dance student, amateur or professional it’s always important to know what country your music comes from, what genre it is and what it is about! Understanding the different genres of Belly Dance music should now help guide you in future album purchases and song selections.

Here are some of my favorite picks of Middle Eastern music by genre. Many of these albums can be purchased at the Belly Motions boutique.

3 of my favorite Folkloric Albums:

Best of Saidi by Fatme Serhan / The Queen of Balady by Fatme Serhan / Belly Dance Around Egypt by Zamalek Musicians

3 of my favorite Classical Albums:

Belly Dance with Aziza by Aziza / Belly Dance Sensation by Salatin El Tarab Orchestra / Arabian Classics for Belly Dance by Salatin El Tarab Orchestr

3 of my favorite Arabic Pop / Modern Belly Dance Albums:

Belly Dance Superstars by Various Artists / Hakim – Greatest Hits / Hizzy, Hips in the Mix by DJ Nader

About the author:

Portia is the founder, CEO and Artistic Director at Belly Motions®, Inc. As a professional in the field, she constantly strives to inspire and educate the masses on the beauty and benefits of Belly Dance. By standardizing the presentation of Belly Dance she aims to raise the integrity, respect and professionalism for the art form. Belly Motions is…raising the bar of Belly Dance “one hip at a time!”

Stay connected with Portia on Facebook and Twitter!

5 Belly Dance Myths Debunked

Belly Motions Team | February 16, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a post from Belly Motions student and intern, Emely.

Often, whenever I mention belly dance I receive similar responses, “Oh! I couldn’t! I can’t go to that class being the size that I am. How embarrassing!”

Yet, many women fail to realize that belly dance is about being comfortable in your own body regardless whether you show your navel or not.

5 Belly Dance Myths Debunked

Myth #1: “Belly Dance is for curvy or skinny women.”

Fact: Belly Dancers come in all shapes and sizes. Throughout the Belly Dance community there are many famous dancers that have been considered either ‘too curvy or too skinny’ but they captivate audiences with their skill and love for the dance.

Myth #2: “You need ‘good hips’ to Belly Dance.”

Fact: Everyone has hips. When it comes to Belly Dance, the size or shape of our hips is irrelevant! What matters is learning how to move our hips to the music.

Myth #3: “Belly Dance is too difficult to learn.”

Fact: Anything new can be difficult at first, especially learning a new skill. Although many Belly Dance movements may look intimidating, taking structured Belly Dance classes that introduce movements step-by-step will give you the confidence and understanding to learn while having fun!

Myth #4: “Belly Dance isn’t a ‘real’ dance.”

Fact: Belly Dance is an art form; just like any dance it takes practice and dedication to master technique. Dancers spend countless hours drilling and learning how to perfect their skill. Like any other art form, it should be respected and valued.

Myth #5: “Belly Dance is only for women.”

Fact: Men do Belly Dance. Although traditionally men teach and perform folkloric versions of the dance, today there are many male dancers that are changing the face of Belly Dance. For example, legendary Egyptian dancer Yousry Sharif studied the dance from an early age and is one of the most sought after Master Instructors in the world. He has trained many famous dancers. Like Yousry, there have been various male dancers who have also become well known in the community.

I hope that this myth-busting article has opened your mind to the many different facets of Belly Dance. As you can see, anyone can partake in this beautiful art form and I hope that these myths will cease to stand in the way of you taking a Belly Dance class!

Emely About the author:

Emely is a Belly Motions student and intern. She has taught belly dance at the Boys & Girls Club and she currently teaches belly dance at the Rec Center in Florida International University.

Photo Credit: Woodwings

Do Men Belly Dance?

Belly Motions Team | February 14, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a post by Andrus Ramir, professional male Belly Dancer.

Yes! Men Belly Dance!

Photo courtesy of Cindy Farache Photography

To the general audience, a man is not the image that comes to mind when they think of a Belly Dancer. However, while Belly Dance is mainly practiced by women, in recent years there has been an increase in the number of men who are Belly Dancing all over the world. These men are making changes in the art form and elevating male Belly Dance from an artistic level, to a professional one.

Long before I started dancing, I was fascinated by Belly Dance. I found the music, the movements, and the image of a Belly Dancer so intriguing, yet still, like most people, I thought it was only danced by women. I had no idea that men could learn! It was not until I decided to pursue it, that I realized men were dancing.

This made the beginning of my career difficult because I started from scratch. With no dance experience, I made the decision to become a professional Belly Dancer.

However, now, after facing many challenges along my journey, I realize I have found myself, answers, friends, mentors and inspirations along the way. Belly Motions has played a big role in my career, helping me in my growth of becoming a male dancer.

Even dating back to the Ottoman Empire, men have danced in the Middle East…

It is believed that what we call “Belly Dance” originated as a birthing ritual and has a stronger connection to women than men. However, that does not dismiss the fact that historically, men as well as women, have danced in the Middle East. Even to the extent that in the Ottoman Empire, young men called “Rakkas” or “koceks” played the role of women while dancing. These men performed for other men in women’s clothing (because women were forbidden to do so) and impersonated female sensuality.

It is also important to keep in mind that what we call “Belly Dance” today, has become a Western, theatrical interpretation of a fokloric, social dance in the Arab world. During gatherings and celebrations, you can find men doing basic movements like that of women – but they don’t call it Belly Dance. To them, it’s just “dancing”.

So, although Belly Dance began as a “woman’s dance” men interpret it in their own style. Similarly, women do the same by mimicking an Egyptian men’s dance, Saidi, by putting their own playful, sassy spin on it!

Yes, Belly Dance is a sensual dance but I believe that men can also have their own interpretation of sensuality. While it is of great importance to understand and learn about the roots of Belly Dance, the dance itself is constantly evolving, changing, and transforming – and this growth is essential for its survival! It has grown beyond its origins and it can now be said that Belly Dance is not only from the Middle East, but from the world. That constant change brings us to the present, in which men are dancing. Now, more than ever, some of the greatest Belly Dance artists, choreographers, and sought after performers are men.

Having several years of experience, I constantly push myself to learn and grow as a dancer; allowing the dance to take me to the next level and vice versa. And now, as a professional male dancer I can say, “Yes, men do dance!”

If you would like to see some of the best male belly dancers, join me May 24-28, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada, as Black Orchid Danse presents “Bad Boys of Bellydance” where I will be a featured guest artist and instructor. Black Orchid Danse will bring together some of the world’s leading male dancers.

Andrus Ramir has been a part of the Belly Motions family for many years, bringing inspiration to the team. Follow Andrus on Facebook and stay connected!

Stage Fright: Tips from an Ex-Trembler

Caitlin | February 9, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a post by Caitlin Ray, Instructor and Performer at Belly Motions.

You may not know this about me, but… as a kid I performed in almost every way possible! I had an agent and did local modeling and acted in commercials. I participated in community theater productions, ballet recitals, piano recitals, and even sang solos in my school’s chorus! The stage, bright lights, performing – all of it wasn’t new to me when I started belly dance.

So, imagine my surprise when I was stricken with stage fright before my first performance!

Trembling, heart-racing… that night, I knew my biggest challenge in becoming the performer I aspired to be was not technique, but overcoming my performance anxiety.

I’m happy to report I no longer tremble if I’m nervous before a show! Sometimes I even grow so excited that I can’t wait for my music to start, a feeling I never could have imagined 6 years ago! So I’d like to share some tips I’ve collected along my journey, in the hopes that they might help you!

Before the Show:

Prepare - Rehearsing is everything! Even the most confident dancers get nervous when they know they haven’t practiced enough or don’t know their music. You want to be able to reassure yourself that you’re ready for the performance. If deep down you know you’re not, you will never believe that internal pep talk! But if you have rehearsed, your nervousness will dissolve once the music starts and your muscle memory takes over!

Visualize – When you’re rehearsing at home, visualize the audience you’ll be dancing for. This gives you an opportunity to confront your nerves and overcome them in a safe, comfortable environment. Start by picturing a friend or loved one that makes you feel loved and accepted unconditionally. Dance for them first, and then try the whole audience. Remember to smile and convey all the passion you want them to see the day of the show!

It’s the Big Day!!!

Keep moving! While you’re waiting to perform, keep moving! Shimmy in place, run through the basic movements and isolations, stretch in between. This warms the body and on a personal level, there is something comforting about staying in motion. Shimmies are a great stress-relieving move, and as your body warms up it tells your brain “OK. We’re going into dance mode now – get ready!!!”

Tackle the Mental Battle

We ALL – do you hear me? AALLLL – have our own insecurities. That dancer that you love and admire and think is so beautiful and so talented that she couldn’t POSSIBLY be nervous? Yeah. Her. She still has her own insecurities!

For me, the key is to shift the focus away from myself and what everyone will think of me, to the audience and what I want my performance to do for them. What is your goal for performing? How do you want the audience to feel? What do you want them to walk away with?

Here’s one of my intentions to get you started:

“May my performance bring the audience joy and open their minds to the art of belly dance.”

There are many reasons why we dance! Remind yourself of your intention and focus on all of the positive things your dancing may do that night. As the saying goes, “Dance to express, not impress!”

Smile! Finally, start your smile before you get on stage. Crack jokes if you need to, imagine the audience naked – do whatever you have to do! Starting your happiness and excitement off-stage makes it a lot easier to bring it with you! Fake it ‘till you make it!

I hope you find these tips helpful. I’m sure you’ll find your own along the way, and I would love for you to share them in the comments below! No matter what you end up trying, it all boils down to what my mom always told me before every performance as a kid… “Have fun!” It really is the most important part!

Caitlin About the author:

Caitlin is an instructor, performer, and choreographer at Belly Motions. Drop in to her Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, or even American Style Belly Dance classes, or hire her for your next event!

Follow Caitlin on Facebook or Twitter to stay connected!

Behind the Scenes: My First Belly Dance Choreography Program

Belly Motions Team | February 7, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a post from Belly Motions intern, Lizzy Cartaya.

For the last 4 years or so I’ve attended nearly every student showcase Belly Motions has ever produced. With each coming show I would say, “Oh, I’m going to learn how to do that, Just watch. I’ll be in the next one!” But of course, the next one came and went while I was still sitting in the audience.

Then one night, my cousin Michelle (a Belly Motions Associate and Instructor) said to me “I don’t care what you say, on Monday, Beginner 1 starts and I’m taking you!”

I quietly thought to myself ”I have two left feet how am I going to do this?!” But turns out all I needed was a little push. As soon as that Beginner 1 class was over I knew this was exactly what I had been looking for and that’s when my passion for Belly Dance was born.

I progressed through all of the programs (Beginner 1, Beginner 2, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2) in what seemed to be a heartbeat. Soon, that wasn’t enough for me anymore. I wanted to put those moves to use! That’s when the opportunity arose itself, what perfect timing! Choreography programs had just opened for registration!

Belly Dance Choreography Programs

I went directly to Michelle and asked her what these programs were all about. She then explained to me that they consist of an 8 week course just like the other programs but instead of learning new moves you’ll be learning how to add them to the beat of a song. I also learned that performing in the show isn’t mandatory; it’s completely up to you. Some girls just take this program for fun or being able to show off your moves to your family and friends.

But I didn’t just sign up for one program, I took a leap and signed up for two! There were so many different ones to choose from: Sword, Veil, and Drum Solo to name a few. I had to keep in mind that each of the different choreography programs were designed for different levels. Some were strictly advanced and some were opened for Beginner 2 and up. I ended up choosing Sword and Veil, challenging myself to dance with two different props.

My boldness didn’t prevent me from feeling super excited and nervous all at the same time. What would it be like to learn choreography? How do you even go about adding moves to the rhythm of a song? I had no idea what I was doing so imagining what choreography would be like was nearly impossible for me.

My worries were soon eased when Day 1 of my first choreography rolled around. All the girls had come in and sat in circle, we took a moment to go around and introduce ourselves. We shared a little know fact about each other and what inspired us to Belly Dance. For the first half of class we went over an outline of our responsibilities to each other and to the show. The rest of class was dedicated to getting to know the song and learning the first combination of moves.

Choreography was a totally different experience for me. You go in there to apply all those moves that you worked so hard to learn, polish them and make them look both theatrical and beautiful. You take everything you know to a whole new level.

As you get further and further into it you start to realize that even from Day 1 you’re not alone. Not only did other girls share your same concerns but at the end of it, you turn into one big family who is there to support and help each other out no matter what.

If you chose to perform like I did, after the 8 week classes are over the best part starts. Rehearsals! There are about 5 to 6 rehearsals where you take what you’ve learned, drill it and refine everything to make it spectacular for the stage! My favorite part of rehearsals was the costume fittings. Putting on those beautiful costumes makes anyone feel and look amazing. What makes it all worthwhile is when you walk out of there wearing your regular clothes people have no idea that you’re a Belly Dancer.

By far the best feeling of this whole experience was when I finally got to see everything start to come together. From the costumes, to the moves, to the formations, everything just falls perfectly as it should and all that’s left is going on stage giving it all you’ve got and having a blast.

Belly Motions 7th anniversary show will be my very first theatre performance and I’m so excited! For that and for what my future may hold as a part of the Belly Motions Team.

Lizzy Cartaya About the author: Lizzy is a Belly Motions intern and a senior at West Broward High School.

Watch Lizzy and other Belly Motions students and instructors perform at the 7th Anniversary Show on February 12. Read more about the show and purchase your tickets online now!

Shimmies on the Stage: My First Belly Dance Performance

Belly Motions Team | February 2, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a guest post from Belly Motions student and intern, Syvanna.

I could feel my heartbeat practically bursting through my chest. The lights went dim and anticipation filled my soul. I remember thinking to myself, “This is it. You can do it.”

I had been preparing for months and now I was ready to perform. Over 600 people sat silently in the audience waiting, including my closest family members and friends.

I was wearing a blue, two-piece Arabic costume adorned with silver beading and diamond jewels. My arms, stomach and back were glistening with gold sparkles from the powder dusted over me backstage. My shiny black hair was loose, trailing down my back. And my eyes were done in a dark, smoky shadow.

I quickly shuffled across the stage and took my position with the other girls. I was standing dead center, poised and ready to dance.

The soft rhythm of the drum began to beat and gradually grew faster, louder, and more exciting in a matter of seconds. Shaking my hips to the rapid pace I noticed the lights adjusting themselves to a perfect setting. I looked out into the audience and felt empowered.

At this very moment I recall thinking, I want to be doing this for the rest of my life.

I love Belly Dance and the feeling of performing more than anything in the world. I continued dancing, hitting every accent, pop and lock on point, and shimmying myself across the stage. I couldn’t help but have a smile on my face. The music digressed to a much slower and dramatic pace.

This is where learning to follow the sounds of the drum really came in handy. Smooth undulations, large hip circles, and sultry sways conquered the stage. As the drum solo progressed, the pace began to quicken. Layers of rapid dum teks filled the auditorium matching our swift steps. The time of our finale had arrived and as we struck our last move, the auditorium filled with applause.

My first Belly Dance recital has been one of the best experiences of my life. It symbolizes the start of a great future for me as dancer.

Before I took the stage, my teacher Portia performed. For three long years she has been my inspiration. Because of her and the support of my family I have grown so much as a Belly Dancer.

Syvanna About the author:

Syvanna Siew is an Intern at Belly Motions. She is in her Junior year of High School and aspires to one day become a professional Belly Dancer. Belly Dance has impacted her life in a way she could have never imagined. After stepping foot into the Belly Motions studio it was as if a whole new world had been unveiled.

We invite you to attend the 7th Annual Belly Motions Student Show on February 12. You’ll see Syvanna perform as well as other Belly Motions students and instructors.

Buy Tickets Now!

Photo Credit: DanBrady

6 Do’s and Don’ts for a First Time Belly Dance Performer

Michelle | January 31, 2012 | 0 Comments

The Belly Motions 7th Year Anniversary Show is right around the corner, and so many of you will be sharing the stage with us that night! In fact, quite a few of you will be performing for the first time.

You’ve been dedicated students, practicing all the time, playing your song over and over until you can’t play it anymore and can’t wait for your big day to get here. However, it’s very easy to forget little (but IMPORTANT) details amidst all the emotions and preparations.

Over time, I’ve put together my own little checklist of simple tips to ensure a smooth and successful performance, as well as tips on what not to do. I’m here to share them with you!

1. DO memorize your choreography!

Yes, it sounds like a no-brainer. But believe it or not, this is one of the most common mistakes that dancers make when they’ve learned a choreography. It’s not enough to practice your routine at your rehearsals or rely on a fellow dancer who knows it well to sneak a peek at when you forget a part. You need to be practicing this consistently throughout the week. Even an hour a day makes a difference. Try it more often without mirrors than with mirrors. The more you know it by heart, the better for show day!

2. DON’T “half” your practicing.

Another very frequent mistake (that I believe we’re all guilty of at one point or another) is not putting your all into your practicing. Whether it’s waiting to work a smile in until the last day, or not making your piston hips as sharp as they should be for show day in rehearsal, this will hinder you at your performance. If you don’t smile now, you probably won’t remember to the day of the show. If you don’t give a full shimmy now, you probably won’t on show day either. Give your all every time!

3. DO set up a makeup appointment if you have no experience with stage makeup.

It is not a good idea to try and experiment with makeup if you’re not familiar with applying it. Stage makeup is exaggerated to work with the bright lighting at the theater so you do not look washed out. The easiest thing to do is have a professional do it for you. If you do want to do it on your own, make sure you play around with looks enough time before the show so that if you decide to book an appointment you still have time. This is your moment, of course you want to look fabulous!

4. DON’T make drastic changes to your hair.

Yes, we all want to transform into beautiful belly dancers on stage, but you don’t want to completely transform yourself into someone unrecognizable! We’ve all at some point flattened our hair with chemicals, gotten a crazy dye job, unruly perms, or horrible haircuts. You don’t want that to be the case for your performance! Go with something tried and true for your hair style. You’ll have enough going on with your performance, no need to stress over hair!

5. DO buy pins! Lots of them!

Pins will quickly become your best friends whenever you perform. A pin for your skirt, for your bra, front, back, all around! This will ensure that your costume is not going ANYWHERE. Everybody at one point worries about or has that “wardrobe malfunction” nightmare before they perform. It will always be “just a bad dream” thanks to these pins. Bring extra ones to the show always, just in case!

6. DON’T forget your costume and/or accessories on show day!

As ridiculous as it sounds, this DOES happen! We get so excited and put so much thought into packing that we forget our most important item…our costume and/or props and accessories! This is why you should pack the night before (no procrastinating!) and make sure those are the things you pack FIRST. Double check to make sure your costumes are complete (remember earrings, bracelets, etc) and you have all props you need for your piece if you are using any.

And above all else, HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE! It’s not worth anything if you don’t enjoy yourself. You’ve done this for YOU, so savor your moment! Good luck beautiful dancers!

About the author:
Michelle Calvo Michelle is a Sales Associate for Belly Motions. She is also a Choreography Program Instructor for the Belly Motions’ theater productions.

You can catch her on Facebook and Twitter!

Join us on February 12 for the Belly Motions 7th Annual Student Show at Florida International University. For more information and to buy tickets, click here.

The Mommy & Me Belly Dance Experience

Miss Luisa | January 26, 2012 | 0 Comments

Miss Luisa’s Kids Rak!

Every month, Miss Luisa, Director of Children’s Programs at Belly Motions, shares tips and stories about belly dance for kids in her Miss Luisa’s Kids Rak posts.

I sit in my patio on a sunny Miami afternoon and gather my thoughts to write a few articles, Gordo (my pug!) at my feet. “Beep!” I receive a text message from Ingrid, mother of Kelly and regular Mommy & Me participant, with several photos of herself and the rest of the 2011 Belly Motions Mommy & Me group. They decided to squeeze in extra rehearsals on their own for their first show in just a few weeks! Filled with joy I look at their rehearsal photos and think, “Wow, they did it again!” (And they haven’t even performed yet!)

So, how do I translate the experience of our Mommy & Me group into words?

I founded the Mommy & Me Belly Dance Program in October 2010 for many reasons. In large part, it was a natural progression for the Children’s Programs in general, with so many of our adult students enrolling their daughters in the children’s classes. As our “mommies” peeked through the curtains to watch their daughters so engaged in the fun and playfulness of our children’s classes, I couldn’t help but want to bring them in!

“Hey Portia! What do you think of offering a Mommy & Me Belly Dance Choreography as part of the BM Kids Program?” I asked “P” one day. “Let’s do it!” an ecstatic Portia replied!

The Mommy & Me Experience

It’s 4:00pm on a Saturday at the studio and Mommy & Me is in session. Sherrie & Remy are the first to arrive, always fashionably dressed. Miriam (A.K.A. “Grandmamaaaa) & Elise and Marcia & Christine are not far behind. Marcia baked her Brazilian carrot cake to share with the gang! Christina carries Jadyn in – she just woke up from her nap. Here comes super-mom Yamila with Yasmine & Leila (that’s right, TWO daughters!). Kelly & Ingrid make it on time by a hair, they came straight from one of Kelly’s photo shoots. And finally… Maria & Daniella….. hmmm… well, they’ll by here by 4:30ish I’m sure (wink wink!)

With their annual presentation for “Our Lady of Lebanon’s Lebanese Festival” less than 2 weeks away and the Belly Motions 7 Year Anniversary Showcase not far behind the butterflies have settled in their bellies – it’s time to focus, practice, and stick together to achieve that particular magic that only the Mommy & Me Belly Dance group can make on stage.

In reality I find it rather difficult to describe in words this experience, especially since I’m not exactly experiencing it.

As the instructor and “head mommy in charge” of this group, I offer the following two thoughts as examples of what I believe represent the sincere essence of the Mommy & Me Belly Dance Experience:

A “Mommy & Me” Moment

It’s almost one year ago and we are at the Belly Motions 6th Year Anniversary Showcase. The Mommy & Me team are performing their routine on stage in front of 600 guests whose smiles fill the theatre with warmth. Two minutes into the routine, little Elise Pino, then 6 years old, turns her head slightly over to look at her Grandmama Miriam who is performing the routine with her. A cool smile, a nod filled with confidence, and finally a “wink” of approval from Elise immediately creates a special moment that “Grandmama” will never forget!

A “Mommy & Me” Testimonial

I recently received a personal email with the following words from Marcia, mother of Christine and regular Mommy & Me participant:

“Thank you for giving us the opportunity to dance with our little ones, it really means a lot; not too many women have this opportunity and you believed in us and worked hard to bring us together! For me it is a privilege and a pleasure to participate in this choreography and as you can see we are taking it serious Thank you!!!”

Don’t miss the Belly Motions “Mommy & Me Choreography Group” performances:

Our Lady of Lebanon’s 35th Annual Lebanese Festival January 27th, 28th, and 29th!
More info ->

The Belly Motions 7 Year Anniversary on February 12, 2012 at 7:00 pm at F.I.U. Wertheim Theatre! Learn more about the show and purchase tickets ->

Learn more about Belly Dance classes for kids ->

Miss Luisa is the Directorof Children’s Programs as well as a full-time instructor and performer at Belly Motions. Bring your daughter to one of her magical children’s classes or drop-in yourself to one of her HipNotica Fitness classes on Mondays and Thursdays!

Follow Miss Luisa on Twitter @MissLuisaRaks and on Facebook at Miss Luisa Belly Motions.

A Powerful Tool for Reaching Your Belly Dance Goals

Caitlin | January 24, 2012 | 0 Comments

Belly Dance Goals What are your dance goals this year? Pretty tough question. But try this one… what are your dance goals this week? Probably a little easier.

Here’s why.

Whether we have been dancing for a week or 10 years, our overall goal is the same -“become a better dancer”. And the method to getting there is no secret – practice. Every dancer I know, from good to great, continues to practice.

Goal Setting in Belly Dance

Goal setting in belly dance is a different process than we have been taught, especially in the early stages. Most of us didn’t enter our first belly dance class with grandiose ambitions. We tried it out of curiosity, we stay because we love it, and we get better through practice, ardent study, and more practice!

It’s not your traditional top-down approach to goal setting. “Well, I enrolled in this college course because it’s part of my 10 year plan to graduate, enter medical school, land a good residency, and one day have my own medical practice.”

It’s more like a bottom-up approach, where you make lots of little goals, “separate my lower abs from upper abs, smooth out my snake arms, maintain proper posture while executing hip-drops…” and then, as if you were climbing a ladder one-step-at-a-time, you look down, shocked at how far you have come, and look back up to see a slightly larger goal coming into view (ex. Perform for a student show, one day become a teacher, etc…)

Create a Dance Journal

However, just like one can learn more efficient study skills, you can learn to make your dance practice more effective. So let me share with you a powerful tool to do just that! Create a dance journal. This idea was presented to me in a workshop with master instructor Rachel Brice about 7 years ago and it helped me turn my personal practice from feeling awkward and unfocused, to structured and productive.

Here’s the process I’d like you to try…

First, create a list of dance goals. Hint: instead of focusing on “getting moves” focus on “learning or improving movements.” Posture, smiling while dancing, improvising, using props, a combo you learned in class… all types of things can be worked into your practice!

Next, create your dance journal! As sterile as it sounds, I find a 3 ring binder can be best. Here is a guideline for the different components of your entries.

Date
Focus: Choose a goal (or two!) from your list as the “focus” of this practice.
Warm up: 5 min. The goal is to get your blood circulating by increasing the heart rate in order to prevent injury. Use the standard Belly Motions warm-up, or anything else you are familiar with. Nothing too intricate, difficult, or fancy – just start moving!
Drills: 10-15 min. Make a list of the basic isolations and movements (hip accents, chest accents, pelvis accents, circles, etc…) and drill them. Check your posture, arms, and travel with them for added challenge. Building and maintaining a good foundation is key!
Focus: 10 min. Work on the focus you assigned to the practice. You’re nice and warmed up now and your brain is in “dance mode” – take advantage of it!
Free-dance: You’ve worked hard. Reward yourself by dancing to your favorite song – no judgments, just have fun and see what comes out!
Cool-down: 5-10 minutes. Slow down with smooth, fluid movements. Stretch! This is the perfect time to work on flexibility, now that your body is nice and warm!
Reflections: How did you feel during the practice? Did you make improvements? What else could you work on… you can incorporate it into the focus of your next practice!

The above are just some general guidelines. You can, of course, take as much time drilling and working on your focus as you’d like. You may even have choreographies to work on – throw them in after the focus! And if you’re pressed for time, cut-out the free-dance or shorten the other components – some practice is always better than none! But remember, never sacrifice your warm-up or cool-down. They are critical for both safety and dancing your best!

Make Your Dance Journal Unique for You!

Also, keep in mind, you’re journal doesn’t have to be limited to just the practice entries!

Here are some creative ideas to make your journal more exciting and comprehensive… decorate it with inspiring images, include sections for favorite songs, costuming ideas, choreographies, articles on dance, notes from workshops, private lessons, and classes… a personal area to discuss emotional growth.

Personalize your dance journal until your heart is content! Just keep your practice log the core, essential component. You’ll love to look back on it in a few years to see how far you’ve come!

So now I have to ask… what are your dance goals?

Caitlin About the author:

Caitlin is an instructor, performer, and choreographer at Belly Motions. Drop in to her Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, or even American Style Belly Dance classes, or hire her for your next event!

Follow Caitlin Ray on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news from this artist!

5 Essential Items for Your Belly Dance Bag

Belly Motions Team | January 19, 2012 | 0 Comments

The following is a post from Belly Motions instructor Alexandra.

Like many Belly Dance addicts, I just can’t get enough of my Belly Dance education! As a dancer with more than 6 years experience, I’m here to share one very important tip that I always share with my students on their first day of class; get a Belly Dance bag!

If you’re a frequent class-goer you will need several Belly Dance essentials on you at all times. You never know when you may just pop into class! So I’ve narrowed down the top five items every student should always carry in their Belly Dance bag!

1. Exercise / Dance wear!

Versa leggings and a Belly Motions Crop Top is my favorite set to keep in my bag. It’s easy, light and doesn’t take up space. Many of us come straight from work and don’t have time to drive back home to change – especially in rush hour traffic. I can’t tell you how many times students have told me they’ve forgotten all of their Belly Dance wear at home and I always say the same thing, “Girl, get a Belly Dance bag!”

2. Coin belt / Hip scarf!

What fun is Belly Dance without the traditional beaded belts around our hips? Purchase a coin belt or scarf that fits your personality. You can even get really fancy and layer a coin belt over a hip scarf!

3. Veil!

I prefer silk veils over chiffon veils. They glide and move through the air as if presenting your inner Belly Dance goddess. Silk veils come in an array of different colors; they truly represent your personality!

4. Zills (finger cymbals)!

Possibly my favorite prop ever! They are a valuable instrument a dancer learns to play AND dance with – who else does that? Plus, it’s great to have your own pair fitted to your fingers instead of borrowing a pair that may not fit properly.

5. Belly Motions Beginner 1 DVD!

Hey, you never know when you might want to practice or even introduce Belly Dance to a friend or family! I have loaned my Beginner 1 DVD to many friends and they loved it so much they started taking classes.

So that’s my little secret… get a Belly Dance bag and fill it with all the magical Belly Dance essentials. Take good care of it and it will take good care of you! Get one that protects your Belly Dance treasures. I suggest one with different pockets to separate items so they don’t tangle.

What’s in your belly dance bag?

Alex Alexandra is a Belly Motions instructor. Be sure to check out her Sword Fusion choreography class perform at the 7th Annual Belly Motions Student Show on February 12!

Purchase Show Tickets Now! ->

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A Powerful Tool for Reaching Your Belly Dance Goals

Goal Setting in Belly Dance

Create a Dance Journal

Here’s the process I’d like you to try…

Make Your Dance Journal Unique for You!

5 Essential Items for Your Belly Dance Bag

1. Exercise / Dance wear!

2. Coin belt / Hip scarf!

3. Veil!

4. Zills (finger cymbals)!

5. Belly Motions Beginner 1 DVD!

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