Tribal Belly Dance

(from left to right) Tawnya & I in the foreground

So, one thing I've done within the past couple of years that is completely out of my comfort zone is tribal belly dancing. What a road it's been!

One of my midwives, Tawnya, was teaching belly dance classes and I talked tentatively with her about it a few times. I had secretly always wanted to learn belly dancing and the form she taught was very exciting to me. But, I had no dance experience and actually a lot of emotional blocks when it came to any type of dancing. Tawnya encouraged me to come. During the first class we practiced some basic moves and at the end of the class there was a free dance, dancing any way you like. Wow, was that ever hard for me to do. I wanted to sit down and say, ok, I'm done or leave and never come back. But Tawnya was so encouraging and the beautiful tribal drums drew me in and I kept coming back. Soon thereafter she asked for commitments to dance in a belly dance performance under the name, Tribal Dove. Somehow she got me to commit. What? Was I crazy? Introvert, non-dancer, and beginner committing to a public performance? There were many other beginners so I felt more comfortable. I practiced like crazy and performed with Tribal Dove. It was terrifying and exhilarating! I loved it so much that I danced again the next year. The top picture is of Tawnya and I from that performance. They used that picture for publicity of this year's performance.

before this PG of course

Lately, I haven't been doing any performances, the thought of it still makes me nervous. But, I gained so much from those experiences and from seeing myself as a dancer. I feel more confidant and able to learn other types of dance, whereas before I wouldn't have tried. I'm also a little more grounded in my femininity. I learned to dress beautifully and drape myself in lovely jewelry and celebrate my body in all it's curves, beauty & imperfections. My rolls don't really matter in belly dance because they add a sumptuousness to the hip moves and undulations. All women are beautiful and sensual in belly dance.

I have a vision of inviting my belly dance friends and my drummer friend and dancing right through my labor. I may do that. What a perfect time to feel free, beautiful and feminine.