Belly dance is a beautiful and expressive dance form that has been practiced for centuries. While it may seem intimidating to beginners, with practice and dedication, you can master the basics and move on to more advanced techniques. In this post, we'll break down some intermediate belly dance techniques that you need to know.
1. Shimmy
The shimmy is a fundamental belly dance move that involves shaking the shoulders and chest. To do a shimmy, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, shake your shoulders and chest in a rapid, fluid motion. Practice this move slowly at first, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
2. Hip Circles
Hip circles are another essential belly dance move that involves making circular motions with your hips. To do hip circles, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, move your hips in a circular motion, keeping your upper body still. Practice this move slowly at first, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
3. Figure 8s
Figure 8s are a more advanced belly dance move that involves making figure 8 patterns with your hips. To do figure 8s, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, move your hips in a figure 8 pattern, keeping your upper body still. This move can be challenging, so take your time and practice slowly at first.
4. Undulations
Undulations are a beautiful and fluid belly dance move that involves making waves with your body. To do undulations, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, move your body in a wave-like motion, starting at your head and moving down to your feet. This move requires a lot of control and fluidity, so practice slowly at first and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
5. Isolations
Isolations are a key belly dance technique that involve isolating and moving specific parts of your body independently. To practice isolations, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, isolate and move specific parts of your body, such as your chest, hips, or shoulders, while keeping the rest of your body still. This move requires a lot of control and precision, so take your time and practice slowly at first.
Remember, belly dance is a journey, and it takes time and practice to master these intermediate techniques. Be patient with yourself, and don't be afraid to ask for help or guidance from more experienced dancers. With dedication and practice, you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled belly dancer.
