Have more Questions? Contact Amy! 678-360-4724 or email [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions About Belly Dance Classes
"Where is your studio? Classes are held at 122 Lee Street Carrollton, GA 30117 (side entrance) "How do I redeem a gift certificate?" After your purchase you will receive an email with your printable certificate, contact information, and instructions. In general, the recipient should contact Amy at [email protected] or 678-360-4724 prior to the expiration date (usually one year from the purchase date) to make an appointment. If you purchased a gift certificate for classes your email will include a list of currently available class times. Once selected, dates are non-refundable.
What should I wear to practice belly dance? If you are new to belly dance you may be wondering if you need special clothes for classes. While there is no required uniform and you can certainly dance in whatever is comfortable to you, I suggest to new students that comfortable pants like "yoga pants" and a tight fitting top are a good place to start. Your instructor needs to be able to see your leg movements to know if you are using proper technique. It is not necessary to expose your belly, but a tight fitting top will help you and your instructor see your abdominal movements clearly. A scarf tied tightly around your hips will speed your understanding of belly dance posture and movement. If you have a coin belt, that is a great option as the sound of the jingles will help you learn rhythm and the weight of the belt focuses your attention on your hips. I like to dance barefoot but if you need shoes you should choose some with a flexible sole. Water shoes can be a good choice because they bend easily but also provide some cushion. Dancing in socks is not recommended due to the "slipage factor" but slipper socks with non-skid soles are a good option for those with cold feet. See an example.
Bring a bottle of water. Bring an open and playful attitude! You will be moving parts of your body that you probably don't pay much attention to in daily life. Remember that when we do this, unexpected emotions may rise to the surface. Plan to be gentle with yourself and enjoy the process of learning. No one becomes an expert overnight! For a great article about overcoming doubts and fears when learning to belly dance check out this website! http://www.shemiranibrahim.com/emotional-aspects-belly-dance/
"Are men allowed?" Most of our classes have been designed for individuals who identify as women, and Every-Womb Bellydance is committed to providing a space for those feel emotionally safer in a women-only environment while exploring this sensitive area of self-growth. However, we recognize that men can enjoy and benefit from this exploration as well! Middle Eastern style dancing is practiced by both genders. Men can be excellent "belly dancers"! No serious student will be turned away because of gender.
"Is belly dance good exercise?" "Absolutely! Dancing of any kind is wonderful for your body. Aerobic exercise promotes general fitness, conditions your heart and respiratory system, stimulates immunity and increases stamina. It also tones your nervous system, reduces stress, increases oxygen flow throughout the body and gives you a sense of well being and empowerment. Dancing is one of the best aerobic activities of all because it's upbeat and enjoyable, and provides a thorough workout. Belly dancing has now emerged as one of the hot new exercise trends according to the American Council on Exercise. It has evolved from traditional forms to heart-pumping workouts seen in gyms across the country. Belly dancing can be soft on the joints and at the same time be highly energetic, and work muscles that most people don't use with regular workouts. It's a great opportunity for people to learn about the music and traditions of unfamiliar countries and cultures. It can also give your body a beautiful shape and be an excellent alternative for people who don't like to run, bike or go to the gym." Andrew Weil, M.D. from http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/id/QAA281218
Are belly dancers kind of like exotic dancers, or strippers?" Not even close! Belly dance did NOT originate as a dance of seduction, but was actually most often practiced in all female gatherings. The name "belly dance" came from the French name Danse du Ventre, meaning dance of the stomach, to describe the abdominal movements that make belly dance so unique. It is a form of everyday expression. It's common role is that of a folk dance; a dance that men, women and children do to celebrate community occasions like weddings and births. For most of belly dance history it has been something that people did for fun, less often as a performance to entertain an audience. For more information about the history of belly dance check out this online textbook of belly dance: http://www.neareastdance.com/Bellydance_Textbook.html You also might enjoy this online video about modern belly dance http://www.current.tv/watch/17137320
"What if I miss a class?" As a courtesy, please let your instructor know as soon as possible by phone, text, or email if you need to miss a class. Missed classes by the student are non-refundable. If a class is canceled by the instructor every effort will be made to schedule a satisfactory make-up class, or a refund will be offered.
"What if I have to withdraw from a session?" If you enroll in a session then must withdraw after the date of the first class, your payment will be applied at the drop in rate ($15 per class) to any classes you attended or missed prior to withdrawal. Funds remaining may be applied to future enrollment or drop in classes within 6 months of the payment. Refunds are given in the form they were received (minus pay pal fees if applicable) under the following conditions: 1. if requested by any student before the first class of a session. 2. If requested by a new student immediately following the very first class attended (minus $15 each for any missed classes of the session).
"Where do I get the Doctor's release for prenatal/postpartum belly dance?" Just print the form at the right and take it to your next visit with your care provider.