Originating from the Middle East, belly dancing is not just about shaking one’s booty and pillows – it’s an art. Practitioners are everywhere, from Asia to the UK to Australia. Belly dancing has taken over the world of dance with a bang.
Belly dancing or ”Ra2s Sha3bi” is part of our culture. It’s part of the essence of being an Egyptian – so why did Egyptian courts try to ban belly dancing by shutting down TV channels that are dedicated to broadcasting this art?
According to the former Muslim Brotherhood leader Faird Ismail, belly dancing “seriously challenges Egyptian social traditions and glaringly violates the constitution” which is why back in 2013, Egyptian courts ordered the closure of Al-Tet channel and Dom Tak TV channel, which were both created for the sole purpose of broadcasting belly dancing.
You can’t just dismiss an art, which by the way is a traditional practice, and you cannot silence or stop artists from expressing themselves. Here are a few reasons why we should all embrace belly dancing:
1. Health benefits
Belly dancing has many health benefits. It promotes exercise and weight loss in a fun atmosphere. Also, believe it or not, it helps with childbirth because it strengthens the muscles used during delivery.
2. It’s a form of expression
We can’t always express ourselves openly and easily and belly dancing does just that. So if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, lock yourself up in your room and start dancing.
3. The costumes
Belly dancing costumes are very decorative and usually embellished with different beads and fringes, making them highly distinctive and different from other dancing costumes.
4. It boosts self esteem
When you’re dancing, you let go of the world around you. You’re completely in tune with the music and the movement of your body. You no longer worry about your appearance or anything you find negative yourself.
5. You get to shake your booty
Don’t kid yourself, this is why most men, not just Egyptian men, love the art of belly dancing.
6. It enhances creativity
Belly dancing gives people an opportunity to be more creative with their dance move, coloring and way of life in general and it’s not just restricted to females
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