Belly Dance Basics

This is probably the single biggest barrier for people joining, and it's is exactly the point of the program. Belly dance is practiced in my culture as a way to connect with your body, no matter what shape you're in. This program is an invitation to show up with all of it — your insecurities, your discomfort, your pain, every part of your body — because that's how we heal. It's a great way to build strength in your body. This program is the workout!

Absolutely! Belly dance played a major role in my recovery from past injuries, chronic pain, and child birth. I survived a shooting when I was 21 years old, and belly dance helped me get back on my feet again. I use accommodations for myself whenever I'm in pain, and I make sure to provide accommodations as much as possible. I always encourage participants to share any concerns with me so I can support them. And it's important to go at whatever pace works best for your individual body.

*Please note: I am not a doctor or a physical therapist, so please make sure to check in with a specialist before you decide to join if you have concerns beyond minor aches and pains.

All you need is a bottle of water to stay hydrated and a yoga mat and/or chair for comfort if you want. You can also wrap a scarf around your waist, if you'd like. It's not required, but it's what we use in our practice when we're wearing big dresses. You'll want to make sure you have enough space for movement. For some, that may be your living room or yard, and for others, that may be a small corner of your bedroom. Find the place that works best for you!

Everyone imagines that you have to have your stomach showing, and that you have to wear some fancy outfit to belly dance. I usually just wear traditional loose-fitting dresses or yoga pants and a tank top, and I encourage all participants to wear whatever feels comfortable on your body! I will be wearing yoga pants for the teaching aspects of the program so you can see the movement better. I also love using a hip scarf to help with isolation, but you don't need it in order to participate.

My belly dance workshops are about discovering and enhancing your natural rhythm, flow, and sensuality. This is a course that gives you the foundation you need in order to find that rhythm. I always encourage you to stretch your comfort zone — no matter how advanced you may be — so you can become a more bold, confident, and empowered version of yourself!

Absolutely! Belly dance helped me heal physically and emotionally after six pregnancies, including three miscarriages. It's used in different parts of the world to assist with birth and recovery, and it's a powerful way to reconnect with your changing body. Because each participant is encouraged to go at their own pace, you'll discover movements and practices that feel good to you. That being said, it's important to prioritize guidance and recommendations from your midwife or obstetrician.

The best part about having a self-paced program is that you can revisit the lessons whenever you want! A lot of them are designed to become regular practices to help build strength and agility over time. The goal of this course is to help you build healthy habits that are easy to implement during and outside of the program. If you're looking for consistency and accountability, I encourage you to join my online community where I host regular live classes. Once you register for this course, you'll be offered the opportunity to join my community at a discount for just $7/month where you'll find fun belly dance challenges, live classes, and chances to share and celebrate your progress!

I do have older mini-lessons on my YouTube page, so feel free to subscribe here! It's not the same as getting that direct support with the full break down and Q & A, but it's a start. It can be so hard to justify investing time and money on yourself sometimes. I completely understand! I have to remind myself regularly that my emotional and physical health are worth it. I've found that when you take the step to invest in yourself, you're so much more likely to show up and get the most out of it. If there's something inside you that's calling you to sign up, take the leap! Your life and well-being truly are worth it. Otherwise, I hope we can stay connected and belly dance together one day soon!