The Spirituality of Bellydance: My Experiences in Relating to This Ancient Art Form

It seems that women (and men) of all ages, races, shapes, sizes and cultures have been drawn to Bellydance. What is it about this ancient, yet constantly evolving art form that attracts people from around the globe to make it their own? It elicits jokes or rejection from some members of the general public, yet to many dancers it transports them into an earthy acceptance of themselves and an inner connectedness. For some, it is a spiritual practice, akin to an awakening or religion.

Whether personalized or demonized, whether public or private, bellydance has endured the test of time. Indeed, many women hundreds, even thousands of years ago, in lands far removed from the U.S.A., used bellydance as a form of sacred worship and socialization. For example, in old Middle-Eastern tribes such as Berber or Gahwazee, dance was a form of ritual expression for the people and held a high place in Tribal society. Ritualized dance marked births, deaths, and female expression. I find bellydance to be a particularly compatible form of dance with the female physique, though men also have made great contributions to the art form.

I think the modern interest and revival of bellydance has been in part by the global desire of women to connect to their past and to come home to their bodies. Before patriarchal religions became the norm, women were revered for their ability to bring forth life and creation. Women's bodies were seen as sacred, not as something to be feared or shamed. Fertility cults sprang up praising the bounty of the Goddess, and woman's important role in society. Modern women feel a great power in reclaiming and identifying with the "Sacred Feminine" energy of their past. As the modern popular documentary, "American Bellydancer" puts it, "We just need to release more feminine energy into the world," and I, in part, believe it is so.

I grew up taking a great deal of ballet lessons in hopes of becoming a Prima Ballerina. Although ballet is a beautiful, complex art form, it is very hard on the body and does not emphasize individuality. This is seen especially in the Professional and Semi-professional arenas, as differing body types and skill levels tend to be weeded out in favor of a common aesthetic ideal. It is very unobtainable for many talented dancers, and I became fed up with it.

After a several year hiatus from dancing, I took up Bellydance, just for fun. I had taken a class or two at a gym before in high school, but this time was different. I fell in love all over again with dance. It was almost like being a kid again! What with all the wonderful costumes, props, and movements that felt so much more natural to my body and mind, it took a great deal of the stress I had formerly associated with dancing away. Dancing became fun again, and I was free to express myself however I liked.

I learned a great deal, too, about the beauty and individuality of the human body. Here were women of all ages and sizes, and they were proud, talented, and beautiful. I felt a deep awakening and acceptance of myself as a feminine, sensual creature. I no longer had to fight myself. I still have a lot to give.

I respect bellydance and the changes it has made in my life and those who dance with me. It is bright and beautiful, and healthy. It gives women power and respect, and has made me enjoy more the pleasures and beauty of life. Viva bellydance!