Bellydance - Bellydance has been called one of the oldest forms of dance in history. In the Arabic language it is known as "raqs sharki" (meaning oriental dance) or "raqs baladi" (meaning dance of country, folk dance). Belly dance was originally performed as a folk dance that celebrated the shape and movements of a woman's body.
Bellydance is typically characterized by snakelike, undulating movements and isolations. Many believe these movements were taught to ease the pains of childbirth. Bellydance is also recognized by sharp, quick hip movements, such as hip snaps and shimmies. Often, bellydancers layer their movements so that one part of the body executes one movement while another part of the body executes another.
Bellydance is typically characterized by snakelike, undulating movements and isolations. Many believe these movements were taught to ease the pains of childbirth. Bellydance is also recognized by sharp, quick hip movements, such as hip snaps and shimmies. Often, bellydancers layer their movements so that one part of the body executes one movement while another part of the body executes another.