What Is Belly Dancing and Where Did It Come From?
Despite popular belief, belly dancing was not necessarily intended to entertain men. Belly dancing developed from the dances of ancient cultures throughout Asia, India and the Middle East. The dances were traditionally performed by women for other women as part of ceremonies or parties, such as those in which a young woman is prepared for marriage. Men had a separate party with other men.Dancing was also a social event for women. After the day's chores were finished the women would gather at the house of a female relative or friend. They would often take turns performing for each other.
Belly dancing focuses on isolating different muscle groups and moves that originate in the torso and hips. The dance is a balance of strength and vulnerability emphasizing the grace and dignity of being a woman.
Increasingly, men are joining the ranks of belly dancers. Male belly dancers do not emphasize the feminine. Their moves focus on strength, power and stamina.
There are many different types of belly dance. Each type is characterized by the emphasis that is placed on the moves as well as the costume that is worn. Lost Caravan is known for the tribal style, which emphasizes a connection to the earth, family and tradition.
The Costume
Belly dancing costumes for women are often colorful and flowing, accented with veils, scarves and exotic jewelry.Lost Caravan dancers usually wear the traditional Ghawazee coat which comes from the migrating Ghawazee tribe; known for their dancing abilities. They also wear belts and jewelry made from coins which is reminiscent of a time when the women would wear the families wealth on their clothing or as jewelry, so that it would be portable if the woman needed to move quickly or flee.
