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Many women take belly dancing classes for many different reasons. Some of these reasons are personal and some are public. Among those who attend church there is that question of “Is it okay to take belly dancing lessons?” Religious beliefs may or may not interfere with taking lessons.

Religious Beliefs

There are different beliefs or rules with different denominations. Playing cards, social dancing, covering your hair, wearing makeup, dress codes, are a few of these restrictions. If personal and religious beliefs are in conflict with taking dance then do not participate.

If the church you attend sees dancing as a sin, then any dance art will be taboo and you will be led to believe that you are sinning against a superior being. If a church ritual says you must fast for 3 days, water only; then do not eat. It is your personal choice to follow the teachings of your chosen church or not.

There are church goers who participate in square dancing, folk dancing, line dancing, waltz and tango, and many other forms of dance. The same can be said of belly dancing; folkloric and ethnic costume styles cover the body from head to toe.

How We Think

The main theme is how you think. If you think something is evil, then it is. If it is a good thing, then it is good. Just as beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, likewise, evil and good are in the eyes of the beholder. Belly dancing can be thought of in either direction depending on the thinking and presentation of the person who is considering studying this form of art.

History

Originally belly dancing was used as birthing exercises and for the birthing process. During idle times women danced for social reasons in the company of other women. This enjoyment continues in our modern world.

Historically women have danced in spiritual ceremonies and events; no thoughts of evil or offensive behaviors were ever performed for a spiritual being.

Other Motivations

If the dancer decides that she wants to be provocative, wear scanty costuming, and move her body to entice male strangers… this is another story. These women have other motivations which are not accepted by any church and their teachings.

Benefits

1. Belly dancing offers benefits designed for the female body. It offers healthy solutions for mental, physical, and spiritual needs.

2. It is a dance which helps people to experience happiness, good health, and the celebration of life.

3. This dance helps many women to appreciate and accept their female body.

4. They develop a better understanding of their mental and physical attributes, and in turn are respected.

5. Women have many issues working in a man’s world and there are uncomfortable and challenging conflicts which many women struggle against. This dance offers them the opportunity to understand and cope with these difficult issues.

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Source by Tricia Deed