Belly dance is a beautiful and expressive dance form that has been practiced for centuries. While it may seem intimidating to those who are new to the art, with practice and dedication, anyone can learn the basics and progress to more advanced techniques. In this blog post, we'll be breaking down some intermediate belly dance techniques that you need to know.
1. Shimmy
The shimmy is a fundamental belly dance move that involves rapid shaking of the shoulders and chest. To perform a shimmy, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, engage your core and shake your shoulders and chest in a rapid, fluid motion. Practice this move slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable.
2. Hip Circles
Hip circles are another essential belly dance technique that involves making circular motions with your hips. To perform hip circles, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, engage your core and make small, circular motions with your hips, moving from one side to the other. As you become more comfortable with the movement, gradually increase the size of your circles and the speed at which you move.
3. Figure 8s
Figure 8s are a more advanced belly dance technique that involves making figure 8 patterns with your hips. To perform figure 8s, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, engage your core and make figure 8 patterns with your hips, moving from one side to the other. This move requires a lot of control and precision, so take your time and practice slowly at first.
4. Undulations
Undulations are a fluid and graceful belly dance technique that involves making waves with your body. To perform undulations, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Then, engage your core and make a wave-like motion with your body, starting at your head and moving down to your toes. This move requires a lot of control and fluidity, so practice slowly at first and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice these intermediate belly dance techniques, the more comfortable and confident you will become. So put on some music, have fun, and let your body move to the rhythm.
