The art of belly dancing is known for it’s seductive and smooth flowing movements to the sounds of drums.
Beve Gardner, the owner of Aschera Rose Dance Studio in Regina, has been teaching belly dance for over two decades.
What initially got her started was a desire to fill some free time while being active.
“It just looked like a really amazing movement form, very earthy, very grounded,” said Gardner. “So that’s what I liked about it.”
The dance features isolated movements that emphasize the hips and torso. This can include staccato type movements with hip lifts to accent the beat.
Water like or flowing movements are used to interpret melodies in the music.
Belly dance roots back to ancient civilizations in the Middle East, since before the Common Era (BCE).
“Different folklore styles kind of combined it to make it more classical,” said Gardner. “Egyptian style was kind of what we originally were copying here in North America.”
This style of dance is called Egyptian Raqs Sharqi, also known as Egyptian cabaret.
It symbolized the life-giving power of femininity and women would dance at ceremonies during fertility rituals.
Belly dancing has evolved to take on various forms, with influences from different countries and cultures.
What was once traditionally a female dance is now inclusive for both men and women.
“Some of the best instructors I’ve had have been men,” said Gardner.
Gardner describes her classes as fun and said, “It’s all about being empowered.”
Belly dancing is an art form that is practised by people of all ages and sizes from all parts of the world.
This is a low-impact, weight-bearing exercise that can improve flexibility while strengthening your body.
“It’s a wonderful way to be active and be social,” said Gardner.
Gardner’s classes are held indoors during the winter months at her dance studio at 2160 Smith Street.
Erika Mrazek has been attending Gardner’s classes for over a year, but she has been belly dancing for over 10 years.
“It’s a movement style I wanted to get into as I never got to do dance when I was younger and it was my chance to try something new,” said Mrazek.
Belly dancing is a physical art form and using more than just your stomach.
“It’s a great workout,” said Mrazek. “Especially for the hips and your lower back.”
The classes bring people together in a way that uplifts them.
“We are very friendly and very chatty,” said Mrazek. “We just want to have fun and grow together and learn new things.”
For Mrazek, the connection to others is a valuable part of this community.
“That sisterhood, in these times, you know everyone’s struggling,” said Mrazek. “Just having this connection…is really something special.”
Belly dancing is known for being a little sexy, yet it helps to increase one’s confidence.
“I have dealt with health issues in my life,” said Mrazek. “I just find that having that empowerment through my body has actually helped me through those struggles.”
