Belly dancing originates from the Middle Eastern dance, or to be more precise from the Egyptian so called “ghawazi” traditional dance. Later it spread and started being performed in the Arabic world as well as in Turkey and in Greece where the dancers developed different techniques and movements. Belly dancers were gypsy travelling groups that were banned in Egypt at the beginning of the 19th century and at this time the belly dancing started becoming popular in Europe. In the sixties it became popular in America and it is most often referred as belly dancing or oriental dance.
The traditional bedlah costumes for belly dancing are rich in decorations and usually contain a bra, harem trousers or long skirt and a belt. The bra and the belt are decorated with coins and fringes. However there are many modern versions of the traditional bedlah costumes which might vary in colures and decorations. The belly dancing traditionally is performed bare food although the modern belly dancers wear shoes, even high hills. In the past belly dancing was performed on fairs and to entertain the guests in hotels and restaurants. Today belly dancing, especially in the western world is used widely and for many different purposes. Of course the main purpose to entering guests is still the most important one.
Belly dancers are called to perform on wedding and other celebrations, or as part of musical events for stage performing for different performers. Belly dancing long time ago has broadened the boundaries of the traditional belly dance, and now there is American tribal style which uses steps mixed from North India, Middle East and Africa. Tribal fusion style of belly dancing has developed incorporating and mixing elements form belly dance with flamenco, ballet and even hip hop. Belly dancing is very active dance and it uses many parts of the body for the movements to be performed, from hips, back to hands, legs and the head. The expression of the eyes and the face is also a key factor for a great performance.
Belly dancing in the Western world today is widely spread as a fitness activity, which aside from the performance act is good for health and physical strength. Belly dancing is suitable for all ages because is a non-impact and weight-bearing exercise. It is advised to older people as prevention for osteoporosis. The isolation of the body parts improve the flexibility of the torso and dancing with the veil helps for improving the strength of the mussels of the torso, arms and shoulders. According to some recent researches, belly dancing helps to strengthen the legs and the long muscles of the back by performing movements with the hips. Belly dancing is also said that has positive psychological effect to women as well as menstrual problems as well as positive approach to their bodies and sexuality.
