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Bellydancing has been practiced for
centuries and has been influenced by
many cultures. Since the beginning of
the century, belly dancing has grown in
popularity across the US and worldwide.
Bellydancing festivals, workshops, and
seminars take place constantly,
attracting large audiences of interested
men and women.
Bellydancing began around 1893 in
America. Americans found themselves
fascinated by the exotic body rhythms
and music. Costumes and dancing styles
were given a distinctive Hollywood flare
and, in turn, influenced dancers in the
Middle East, thus evolving the art form
to a new level.
Bellydancing is said to be natural to a
woman's bone and muscle structure.
Bellydancing often focuses upon
isolating different parts of the body,
moving them independently in sensuous
patterns, weaving together the entire
feminine form. Bellydancing is generally
performed barefoot, thought by many to
emphasize the intimate physical
connection between the dancer, her
expression, and Mother Earth.
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