Home | Women | Exercise
I never thought I would take belly dancing classes - I am a horrible dancer, not to mention extremely uncoordinated! But when a friend suggested that we take the class together, I agreed reluctantly. Upon entering the dance studio for the first time, I was nervous about what to expect out of the class. Will I be the only one who can't dance? Will I have to show my belly? Is belly dancing purely a dance for entertainment purposes? How hard is this going to be? All of my questions were quickly answered to my satisfaction, with the exception of one--but I'll get to that later. I was definitely not the only one who could not dance or who did not have some sort of dance background, and I did not have to show my belly. Thank goodness! We also found out that belly dancing is definitely not just for entertainment purposes only. It's hard! I hope that last statement didn't scare you off. Belly dancing is hard because it is actually a workout! I realized this not far into the class when I found it difficult to catch my breath, and I got that familiar little pain in my side... like when I run for a long time. So, I decided to research the health benefits of belly dancing. This is what I found: ¾ Belly dancing improves bone density - Since you are on your feet during belly dancing, it is considered a weight- bearing exercise. Weight bearing exercises can prevent osteoporosis. ¾ Belly dancing can help you lose weight - According to worldbellydance.com, belly dancing can burn up to 300 calories per hour. ¾ Belly dancing can lower stress levels. The repetitive movements that are required during belly dancing will keep you concentrating on the task at hand instead of worrying about the stresses in your life. Although I am not even close to being a belly dancing pro, I am proud of myself for throwing caution to the wind and taking the class. If it is this much fun to lose weight, prevent osteoporosis, and lower my stress levels...I'll be back for more! *Note - As with any other new exercise program, consult your doctor before beginning. Erin Sharplin Love is a Certified Fashion and Image Consultant, Professional Organizer, Certified Wedding Coordinator and the owner of Panache by Erin. Panache by Erin offers such services as Closet Rejuvenation, Wardrobe Assessment, Outfit Coordination, Personal Shopping, and Home/Office Organization, and Wedding Coordinating. Erin Sharplin Love is also the founding editor of a quarterly magazine, Panache Magazine. For more information about Erin and her services please go to http://www.panachebyerin.com or call 318-398-0326.
Article Source: http://www.bellydancearticles.com
Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erin_LoveEzineArticles.com/?A-Healthy-You---Belly-Dancing&id=917807
Please Rate this Article
5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
