HEALTH BENEFITS OF BELLY DANCE
[HISTORY] [POSTURE] [WEIGHT LOSS] [CHILDBIRTH PREP] [STRESS REDUCER] [COMMON SENSE]
A BRIEF HISTORY OF BELLY DANCE
Belly dance is the oldest known, surviving dance form, estimated at over 3, 000 years old. In ancient Middle East and Mediterranean cultures, it was not performed as entertainment. It was primarily a birthing preparation and ceremony; women would hone their muscles to prepare for pregnancy and childbirth. At the time of delivery, the feminine community would gather and dance to assist and celebrate the birth.
Belly dance was introduced to "the western world" at the Chicago Worlds Fair in 1893. The dancer, who's history is increasing in popularity with the recent popularity of this art form, was known as "Little Egypt".
Dance history links:
Belly Dance is a unique way of exercising. It uses ALL the muscles in the natural movement of the body, while promoting creativity through expressive dance.
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IMPROVED POSTURE & MUSCLE TONING
Our spine contains more bones and ligaments than any other part of the body. In belly dance, movements such as hip drops, circles, figure eights, and shimmies gently and repetitively move these joints and ligaments in the lower back and hips through their full range. In the process, these muscles are toned and flexibility is increased in a safe and effective manner.
Toned back and abdominal muscles improve your posture and help prevent back pain caused by the unnatural curving forward of the spine that occurs when muscle groups are weak. Even small, typically under-exercised muscle groups deep within the back are strengthened.
The muscles surrounding the hip, the largest joint in the body, are exercised during hip drops, and figure eights. These moves enhance flexibility and suppleness and can lead to improved balance when walking as well.
Arms and shoulders are exercised doing lifts, circles, and the rippling motions of snake arms. The prevalence of arm movements are such that their toning effects are often evident quickly, even to beginners.
Because a woman is on her feet while belly dancing it is considered a weight-bearing exercise. As such, it can strengthen bones and help deter osteoporosis.
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WEIGHT LOSS
Research has shown that belly dancing can burn up to 300 calories per hour. Of course this varies depending on the intensity of the dancing. But, when combined with a healthy, sensible diet, belly dancing can without a doubt be part of a sound weight loss program.
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PREPARATION FOR CHILDBIRTH
As in ancient times, the movements of belly dancing offer an excellent prenatal exercise regimen that strengthens the muscles used during the childbirth process. Toned abdominal muscles and natural hip tucks are similar to the "pelvic rocking" taught during prenatal classes.
For women who desire natural childbirth, the emphasis on muscle control not only facilitates natural childbirth, but also makes an excellent post-natal exercise that helps encourage abdominal tone. During the first weeks following childbirth, these movements, if done gradually, gently work the muscles and effectively help them regain their tone.
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STRESS REDUCTION
Stress causes our bodies to tense up and contract, which can lead to spasms in muscle groups in the neck, shoulders and back. The subtle and repetitive rhythms of the music, increased breathing and dance movements are calming to body and mind. Also, the concentration they require helps relieve stress and "let go" for a while. It's hard to worry about deadlines or work when you are focusing on dance moves or while staying in time with the music.
Muscles relax as they are gently exercised and stretched especially the neck, shoulders and back. Dancers frequently report diminished pain in their back and neck.
Most of all it is FUN! And can promote a healthy self-image and sense of community, especially when learning in a class or group environment.
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A NOTE OF COMMON SENSE
Many doctors have recommended belly dancing as part of rehabilitation from injury. However, it is important to check with your own medical practitioner before starting any new form of exercise especially if you are over 40, pregnant or have a history of medical problems.
Health and other useful links:
http://www.shira.net
http://www.zehara.co.uk/healthbenefits.htm
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