Georgia Burnett has been belly dancing since 2005. She now has her own studio, Bella Dance Studio in Spartanburg, where she offers a wide range of belly dancing classes.
Burnett spoke with us on the benefits, styles, and history of belly dancing. It is believed belly dancing began as a way to make childbirth easier, considering there were no hospitals and pain medications then. Mothers would teach their daughters the moves and ways of belly dancing, and then the daughters would do so for their daughters.
There are many different styles of belly dancing, but one of the more well-known styles is the Egyptian style. Before the filmmakers of Hollywood created the lavish costumes, belly dancers would wear normal style clothing with scarves tied around their hips. Each style has different attires the dancer would wear.
As long as you can walk, you can belly dance! Young and old are capable of learning how to belly dance. This dance is not harsh on the body and can actually benefit your health. It can help with stiff joints, lower blood pressure, and get you into shape.