Ritualistic Movement:
Dancing With a Purpose

Written by: Kenneth-Michael

 

Belly dancing originated in the Middle East and was initially only practiced by women. It was started as a dance to train other women, especially during pregnancy. Typically, women danced when they are together with other women. Men were forbidden to watch the dance form. It didn’t have the same sexual reference during its origination as it does today. The dance utilizes the body’s core, which is the stomach muscles.

 

The dance form was used as a ritual to ease childbirth. The movement associated with belly dancing is known to smooth out breath patterns and allow more oxygen to the body. In the birthing phrase, the mother is surrounded by other females, who guide her through the birth process. They all oscillate in a motion and instructor the new mother to follow. That motion is identical to the process the child travels out the canal.

 

“I feel that belly dancing is about a celebration of being female and not about being something that you
are not…”

 

Kristin Beno has been belly dancing for two years. Initially, she found comfort in the dance because she suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. The condition blocks Beno from doing any such activities like running or constant movement. She says that belly dancing has helped her remain fit and flexible. “It is great for toning everything,” Beno said.

 

Beno is studying the American Tribal style of belly dance. American tribal style is performed in a group and relies on improvisation. The dancers are to follow the lead of the instructor or person guiding the group. The attire worn during tribal style is generally a wide leg or bell bottom pant.

 

This ritualistic dance is usually seen at festivals like weddings and funerals. It was also used as a tool to send soldier off to war.

 

The dance form was used as a ritual to ease childbirth. The movement associated with belly dancing is known to smooth out breath patterns and allow more oxygen to the body. In the birthing phrase, the mother is surrounded by other females, who guide her through the birth process.

 

Belly dancing has also made Beno feel more comfortable in her skin. Being a curvy woman, she was nervous when it came time to don many of the midriff baring costumes associated with the dance. “I feel that belly dancing is about a celebration of being female and not about being something that you are not,” Beno said.

 

Beno has seen all types of women attempt the dance form. “Some people who are pregnant try belly dancing,” Beno said. She says many have no problem with baring their birthing marks (stretch marks) and she considers this the enlightening era of the female body.

 

Beno is a student at Mirage Oasis World Tribal Fusion Belly Dance in Maryland and is guided under the direction of Wendy Gooch.

 

 

 

 

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