Health And Belly Dance

"The graceful hip drops, rolls, and pivots of this dance form utilize muscle groups in the abdomen, pelvis, trunk, spine, and neck, working with the body instead of against it."

1. Improved Posture and Muscle Toning
2. Weight Loss
3. Preparation for childbirth
4. Stress reduction
5. Exercising the carrying muscles without impact
6. Building the back muscles evenly
7. Exercising the arms
8. Aiding digestion

Source: http://www.atlantabellydance.com/ProspectiveStudents/ClassHealth.html#health

"The benefits of belly dance are both mental and physical. Dancing provides a good cardio-vascular workout and helps increase both flexibility and strength, focusing on the torso or "core muscles", although it also builds leg strength. Many belly dance styles emphasize muscular "isolations", teaching the ability to move various muscles or muscle groups independently. Veil work can also build arm, shoulder, and general upper-body strength, and playing the zils can build strength and independence of the fingers. Belly dance is suitable for all ages and body types, and can be as physical as the participant chooses. As with starting any new exercise routine, people would be wise to consult their doctor before starting a belly dance regimen and to talk with the belly dance instructor to find out the level of difficulty in the classes. For many belly dancers, the practice offers mental health benefits including an improved sense of well-being, better body image and self-esteem, and the generally positive outlook that comes with regular, enjoyable exercise.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that the practice of belly dancing may benefit women preparing for childbirth, as the movements strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles and the woman becomes more familiar with the way her muscles work. The hip-circling movements used in the dance may relieve some of the common discomforts of labor."

Souce: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belly_dance#Health_and_belly_dancing

For me, it is the perfect way to workout, a workout that is fun and easy, and I always look forward to it. And if you don't have time to attend belly dancing class, there are some instructional videos that you can follow at home, but believe me, it's more fun to attend a class. If you are interested, Regine Tolentino Dance Studio is offering belly dancing classes every Mondays and Fridays, 6:30-8:00 pm. The Dance studio is located at the corner of 12th Street and Victoria Avenue in New Manila, Quezon City.