By Tina Hobin
The belly dance evolved from magic and secular dances, fertility and childbirth rituals, mourning and festivities. From its earliest beginnings centuries ago to the present day, women from all cultures have embraced this quintessential sacred dance.
Like no other dance this ancient art, specifically related to women, can stimulate the unconscious, embody natural healing powers, aid spiritual growth and restore harmony and balance. The rotating, rolling and thrusting movements of the abdominal and pelvic region which have been passed down from generation to generation over the centuries are especially significant, as the abdomen which is accentuated in the dance is an extremely important part of the body, the seat of all sexual and childbearing activities. The purpose of these specific movements in ancient cultures was to encourage sexual stimulation, the original aim being to initiate coitus (sexual intercourse). The birth dance, which is believed to have originated in pre-biblical times, facilitated birthing and celebrated the birth and motherhood.
Over the years there has been a dramatic increase in the popularity of the belly dance in the UK and overseas, not only as a beautiful art form but as a unique form of exercise that has tremendous healing qualities both psychologically and physiologically. In contrast to other conventional dance forms and exercise which impose movement upon the individual, this ancient dance forms an intrinsic power within one which imposes self-expression, creativity and femininity, boosts energy levels, and although it cannot be claimed that belly dancing is a cure for all, it does help to stimulate the body’s healing process. Unlike other forms of dance and exercise the movements of the belly dance are based on the natural structure of the body and are a natural, safe and effective way of achieving help to move the body as it is designed to move, without any stress or strain, and this is why it is so beneficial to everyone irrespective of age, size, health or fitness levels.
This low-impact, weight-bearing, gentle, unique form of exercise will enable you to make full use of your muscles in a proper and co-ordinated way which will help to improve muscle tone, in particular the core muscles and those that surround and support internal organs. The movements of the dance also focus on ‘isolations’ which enable you to move groups of muscles independently.
The moves also stretch and strengthen the pelvic floor, massage internal organs, help to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system, lessen tension and depression, improve coordination, balance and flexibility, improve posture, and ease low back pain. Although it cannot be claimed that belly dancing is a cure for all ills, the movements of the dance can without a doubt help those with IBS and other digestive problems. Learners with the early stages of endometriosis also found they gained great relief from doing the movements that concentrated on the abdomini. It has also helped those with the early stages of arthritis, fibromyalgia and dementia. Recently there has been a lot of research done on the benefits of dance for those with dementia, and for others it has helped to improve the intimate side of their life, both for themselves and their partners. Learning to belly dance has also helped those who suffer from other digestive problems, relieved menstrual and menopausal problems, and aided many other health and fitness issues.
As you read through the following pages you will become aware of the benefits of this very unique form of exercise. You will also understand the root causes of illnesses and how, by embracing this empowering dance once practised by ancient cultures, you can stimulate your body’s natural healing power and achieve self-improvement, happiness, harmony, health, vitality and empowerment.
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Tina Hobin pioneered the belly dance in the UK and is affectionately described as Mother of the Belly Dance. She is acknowledged as one of the greatest exponents of the dance, combining its considerable aspects together with exercise and entertainment. Over the years she has maintained a high profile and become well known for her guest appearances on TV and radio and regular features in the national press. Belly Dance for Health, Happiness and Empowerment by Tina Hobin is published August 2015 by Ayni Books. ISBN: 978-1-78279-917-7 (Paperback) £16.99 $27.95, EISBN: 978-1-78279-916-0 (eBook) £10.99 $16.99.