Some Thoughts for Beginners
By Charlotte Blignaut
Published in July / August 2003 edition of SA Dance

The more I learn about belly dancing the more fortunate I feel to have discovered this amazing dance. It constantly proves to be so much more then just a means of expression, it is without doubt also a wonderful vehicle of exploration and discovery. It is perhaps for this reason that I would like to share the following with those who have just begun to take up belly dancing or who are considering doing so.Belly dancing provides women with a safe environment in which they can discover and explore the essence of being a woman.

There is a Goddess within each of us that demands, not only our acknowledgment but also our respect. Very often a beginner would be filled with feelings of self-doubt and awkwardness but with perseverance and the right encouragement these obstacles are quickly overcome.

It is incredibly rewarding to see the amazing growth that, invariably, takes place within each student. Not only will the novice dancer be introduced to parts of their body that they may not have been previously aware of but they will be taught to simultaneously move opposite portions of their body in an articulate and uniquely feminine way.

The movements will not only give you a good cardio vascular workout but it also creates that awareness which is so vital to poise and a graceful carriage. You don't have to be blessed with loads of natural talent to reap the benefits of belly dancing; just being a woman is talent enough. Not every student will be destined to become a professional dancer but with the right attitude and teacher there is no doubt in my mind that this marvellous dance can profit every woman, you just need a good sense of humour and the willingness to have heaps of fun.