Goddess Sized (Plus Size) Belly Dancers: What You Should Know

Goddess sized, or plus size, belly dancers abound. There are more of us than one would think, and a positive outlook and positive body image are necessary for success. We may not be able or want to do the restaurant gigs that are so popular, however there are many other venues for performance.

As a plus size belly dancer all I have received are positive reviews. Men even think its sexy! Many techniques are easier to do for larger women as we become more comfortable in our skin and moving our body. That, to me, is the biggest benefit of belly dancing-getting comfortable and loving my body. Belly dance is so positive and has been a source of feminine power for centuries. And, if you do happen to want to lose weight, belly dance is a great way to do so. Those fast drum solos are more work than most aerobics!

Belly dance is an art form geared toward the plus size woman. The dance form originated in the Middle East as a social dance just among women, especially in preparation for birthing children. The hip movements and belly rolls look just amazing with women who aren't stick thin, but have the flexibility that comes from just a little bit of belly dancing.

There are many different styles of belly dance, including cabaret (Turkish and Egyptian), Tribal and Gothic. Tribal belly dance is especially well suited to us goddess sized women as the body position is more grounded, with bent knees and a tucked pelvis. This stance is natural and comfortable, verses the more airy postures of cabaret belly dance.

It is a sad fact that some restaurant gigs want thinner more classically beautiful dancers, but there are other places to dance and perform. My favorite place to dance is in my living room, or outside in the sun. So far as performing, great places to perform are parades, renaissance festivals and other festivals, college cultural days and other city or education sponsored events. If you start taking classes, you may just find several other ladies wanting to dance together, to form a troupe either with or without your teacher's help.

Costuming is one issue where it can be tough for the goddess sized dancer. There are more costumes now available for purchase than there were several years ago, but there are still not many above a 42" hip. The solution to this is to make your own costumes, and get creative about it. Ghawazee coats are wonderful made from stretch fabric to show moves and cover the stomach, if you would like.

There are many issues surrounding the goddess sized belly dancer, such as self image, performance locations and costuming, however with a little perseverance and creativity, lovely dancers emerge!