Like most moms, whether home with kids or working outside the home, I find it really important to get a little me time.
I am a better parent and wife if I get a little time on my own and a chance to pursue my own interests. My husband agrees! When it came time to decide what I wanted to do, I realized that it needed to be something “girlie”. You see, I have three wonderful sons. Add to that a wonderful husband and you can see why there is nothing “girlie” happening at my house.
I danced when I was younger and I enjoy being active so I decided to try a belly dancing class at a local high school. I enjoyed it so much that I moved to classes at the instructor’s studio and perform in the annual recital. Am I good? I don’t know, but I sure have a lot of fun.
There are many different reasons for taking up this beautiful art. One is fitness. Dancing is a great cardio workout and the moves are great for strengthening and toning the core and arms. Another reason for dancing is stress management. I am no expert, but getting exercise and having fun have always helped me to keep life’s stresses more manageable.
There’s also the benefit of getting to socialize with a bunch of women who are there for the same or different reasons. Some are teachers, some are grandmothers, office workers, stay-at-home mom, students, etc.
One concern for many people is that they don’t look the way they want to. I hear people say, “I could never do that, I am too fat” or “I’m too old”. But that is the amazing thing – belly dancing is for people of all ages and all sizes. There is no judgement. People take classes and perform in recitals who are underweight, overweight, young, old, and everything in between. It is all about celebrating our femininity, feeling sexy and is great for building confidence.
For this year’s recital I am going to be wearing the full costume, sequined bra and all. Now you can’t get much more “girlie” than that.
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