What should I wear to dance practice?

We want you to be comfortable which means wear something that you can easily move in.

Yoga or work out pants, fitted tank top, t-shirt are best. Bare feet, dance shoes such as jazz shoes, ballet slippers, foot undies, or socks are all acceptable foot attire. NO street shoes or street attire in the studio. Great rule of thumb if you wore it to work, chances are it's not acceptable for dance practice. Wear a hip scarf if you'd like. 

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How long will it take until I'm good at it?

That's up to you. What you put into it, is what you get out of it. If you don't practice, you won't get as good as your peers. Take all the classes you can with as many instructors that you can. Go to as many conventions, workshops that you can attend. Do alot of self study. THAT is how you get things done. 

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Broaden your knowledge

Mastering the technique is only one part of learning to belly dance. You gradually learn to recognize the different rhythms and know what to do to them. Then there are all the different styles of the dance - and music from modern Egyptian pop to wonderful classical orchestral music. It's a lifelong study to become an expert.

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What style of dance do you offer?

Raqs sharqi, literally translates to oriental dancing. Which didn't answer your question at all now did it? We dance primarily to all forms of Arabic music. Baladi, Shaabi, Saudi, for example are styles we use. We are known to  do some fusion work and blend styles. We will use props like the sword, assaya (cane) and sagats (zills). 

We do not dive into ATS (American Tribal Style), we try to stick more to traditional forms of the dance. ATS, though beautiful in it's own space, it is not where we choose to go. 

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Is Belly Dancing expensive?

Yes, it absolutely can be, but it doesn't have to be. Do keep in mind that you should be prepared financially to spend money on items that can cost you $5.00 and can cost you $900.00. Really, it's up to your level of commitment and how far do you want to go.  

If you are going to be seen on a stage or join a troupe, it will be expected and required that you buy your own items and will be expected to get the right outfits, and props for the performance. When you step on a stage, you are a professional, might as well fit the part. With 7 Moons, there is a level of expectation and commitment coming from you. Plus, let's admit it, we can never have too many hip scarves and sparkly things! 

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What should I expect when I come to my first class?

All classes begin with a comprehensive warm-up to wake up our muscles and get them ready to move. We then concentrate on technique, learning a few new basic belly dance moves each week and re-capping on moves learned in previous weeks. These moves are then incorporated into short quickie routines and before you know it, you’re belly dancing! All classes end with a cool down and the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. 

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I’ve not exercised for a long time – will I be able to keep up?

Belly dancing is a form of exercise which is suitable for all shapes, sizes and levels of fitness. Most dancers (however fit) find some moves more difficult than others and it is easy to adapt moves to suit your level of ability/fitness. There is no requirement to push yourself beyond what is comfortable for you. 

 

 

Medical conditions

If you have any diagnosed medical conditions, or any symptoms which you are concerned about, it is recommended that you consult a medical professional or specialist for approval before starting to belly dance. We will try to adapt a dance move to the best level of comfort. 

 

 

What will I gain from Belly Dancing?

 

Confidence and Self Esteem

In addition to the health benefits obtained from exercise, belly dance has a wonderful effect on confidence and self esteem. Belly dance looks beautiful when performed by dancers of all shapes, sizes, genders and ages. Take a look around you in your first class and notice how the moves look different (but just as good) on people with different body shapes. At first, you may be a little shy and want to keep yourself covered, but it won’t be long before you’re baring your belly and jostling for a space where you can see yourself in the mirror as your body confidence grows.

 

Social Interaction

Belly dance is a very sociable form of exercise. Unlike many gym-based classes, where the emphasis is on getting a good ‘workout’ and burning off as many calories as possible (usually by adopting a follow-my-leader style), belly dance is far more interactive. My belly dance classes focus not only on learning how to move our bodies in certain ways, but also incorporate interpretation of the music, sometimes working with a partner or in a small group, and learning simple routines to specific pieces of music. There is also plenty of time for discussion and laughing (often at ourselves!)

 

Mental Well being

Many studies have shown a link between physical exercise and an increased sense of mental well being and dance is no exception. Recent studies have also shown that dance based activities which require us to (quite literally) ‘think on our feet’ rather than just following along with a routine, help us to retain our mental acuity as we grow older.

 

I've never danced before, does that matter?

Not at all. Actually it doesn't help you if you DID dance previously. We use different muscles. People with all that previous dance experience are coming in in the same ground floor that you are. 

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Why should I pay for classes?

You don't have to. There are many online sites where you can watch and learn. However, show us any online program that will tell you that you're making a mistake with your technique while you're watching and dancing to the video. We took classes, read, studied, and are executing our knowledge into your mind, heart and soul. We want you to feel and share the love and take on the knowledge that took decades to learn.