Incorporating dance into enrichment programs is essential in every community. When I learned that Khalima Sikorsky, Richmond, Virginia based belly dancer, posted that she was starting such a program, I just knew I had to write about this.

Dealing with grief is difficult on everyone. Individuals handle grief differently. Some become distant, others let their emotions out, while others look for support. Death of a loved one impacts a dancer's ability to stay on track with performances, rehearsals, and other events.

Every year on May 9, dancers from all over the world celebrate World Belly Dance. In conjunction with promoting belly dance all over the world, Shimmy Mob raises awareness and funds for abused women and children organizations.

World Fusion Festival will run from May 1-3, 2015 at Lake Casitas Ventura, California. It is going to be filled with music, dance, art, food and vendors. What makes this event unique is the fact that it will be outdoors.

Recently, there was concern about the lack of dance opportunities for students and beginners. In a large city, there is no excuse, but little is known, even in a large city, about what venues will host beginner dance events. The solution is of course, to create dance opportunities.

There are often more distractions in daily life, making certain goals difficult to accomplish. Our emotions and beliefs set things into motion. Learning how to manage your goals starts with learning how to keep emotions in check.

In just a few, I'll be celebrating the new year with family and friends. I'll admit that I'm thinking about the changes I need to make for the new year. Yes, I'll admit too that about this time, is when I think about the changes and not before. I'm going back to the basics.

I had not been to a nightclub in such a long time. Usually, I relax at local bars. When I walked into a local nightclub, what I observed was rather disappointing to say the least.

Dancers, this DVD is a must for your toolbox. Fusion, especially when using the skirt as a prop, is popular amongst belly dancers. Treasure's Skirtwork for Belly Dancers is a useful instruction DVD to get you in the right direction.

Artists face many challenges that make them stronger and wiser. Their stories in turn inspire future artists/dancers to take that first step into becoming the next generation of amazing performers. Andrus Ramir is known in the belly dance community and he is a true inspiration.

There are certain types of dance that require strength, stamina, and balance. Skill of the dance alone, is only part of a successful performance. The other part requires a dancer to maintain a physical fitness level, so that the dancer appears flawless while in motion.

This month our country celebrates our amazing LGBT community. Slowly but surely, this great country is more accepting of men and women whose sexual identity or preference is non traditional. The belly dance world embraces such a diverse group of dancers, including LGBT individuals.

Most dances today are a fusion of the old and the new. Call it what you like, disagree, or embrace it, new fusions are here to stay. It is important that as dancers, artists and teachers, we come together for the love of dance.

In this day and age, really earning what is your worth is difficult. The general public has a misconception of what a true artist/belly dancer is worth. When it comes to fees and such, who is really paying and who is not?

Yoga Meets Dance is an excellent method of combining dance with yoga. Individuals are always looking for fresher methods of movement and healing for the body. This method is the answer for a balanced mind and body workout.

SORAYA, a gifted and multi-talented dancers shares her open, honest & candid thoughts about the dance, the art and the attitude needed to be a successful, respected Middle Eastern dancer.

This is a must read for all women. Most of what is written, relates to oriental dance and the lives of dancers, instructors, and those who dream of becoming a dancer. A woman's journey is of importance and Unveiling: The Inner Journey is a terrific guide.

It is that time of the year for celebration, family, and fun. The weather calls for those warm blankets and hot chocolate. A fire to gather around, telling stories. A time to reflect on who we are and what wishes we have for next year. I would like to share a few thoughts.

We are always interested in learning new dance skills. Understanding our right side of the brain and doing certain exercises, strengthens that area.

Now it is time for storytelling at its finest. In this discussion, I will refer to the storyteller Shahrzad, in the Persian transliteration. The first parts are "The Merchant and the Genie" and "The History of the Fisherman".

It has been awhile since I last spoke of the Arabian Nights. There is a reason for it. I've read so much into the story, that I don't want to finish. Scheherazade and her stories amaze me. As dancers, we should at least try to know her, this fascinating woman who inspires the music and our dance.

The images on this Facebook page are beautiful and I look forward to seeing the images daily.

Dancers have different answers as to why they dance. Some do it for fun, to entertain, and others to express the pain of ourselves or others.

On July 14, 2013, dancers and musicians will come together to celebrate the legendary Fez nightclub in Los Angeles, California. Roxanne Shelaby, daughter of founder Lou Shelaby, is raising funds for this wonderful documentary.

Recently, I saw a remark from a belly dancer about another belly dancer using profanity on Facebook. Although the remark was more of a suggestion, I really had to think long and hard about myself and my mouth. How does profanity reflect on a dancer?

A couple of weeks ago, I saw a video of myself dancing at an event. The video was an eye opener to say the least.

Every occupation has certain guidelines and standards under the Department of Labor. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, under the Department of Labor, establish these statistics for those working in the United States. Those interested in becoming a dancer or a choreographer, visit the website.

Hair toss in dance is so beautiful. There are some things to keep in mind when showing off that beautiful hair.

Smart phones, tablets, and other mobile devices, are making sophisticated apps or applications for just about anything. There are apps for belly dancing, but beware, some are not worth the purchase.

This year is almost over. Actually, some parts of the world are getting ready to celebrate 2013 as we speak. I'm sure at some point in time, we thought about our goals for 2013.

There is that certain time of the year where dancers do not perform, do not rush to have practice time with the troupe, and the time to just focus on her/himself. Usually, this time is at the end of the year. Why is that?

To know flamenco, is to immerse yourself in it. The dance is truly expression, so there is only one learn it.

My recent trip to Spain allowed me the opportunity to experience flamenco at its finest. International Belly Dancer Mesmera, coordinated this beautiful travel adventure that allowed myself and many others to experience the beauty of flamenco.

In this presidential campaign with women's rights being an issue, I can't help but think of the past, the struggles, the scandals that impacted women. Maud Allan was a rebel in her day, a time when women could not embrace their sexuality.

Social media comes in all forms. With this, it seems the world is always at the tip of your fingers. Every type of issue, person, group, food, you name it, is represented on Facebook. Belly dancers who want to be in the know, well, Facebook is the place to be.

Believe it or not, musicians and belly dancers can coexist. Recently, I had the honor of meeting Sands Ethereal, a vibrant movement of music and dance.

It was a late Mother's Day gift, but the expression on her face made the wait worth it. On May 20, 2012, I danced for my mother, who was part of an audience at recent show.

Also known as finger cymbals, zills are an instrument used in belly dance. Dancers wear the instrument on their thumb and second finger, both hands, as part of a performance. It takes time and dedication to learn how to play, but one will never know unless they give it a try.

Recently, I had the honor of being a dancer at the Thomas Dolby concert in Houston, Texas. It was a great experience, and I had so much fun being on stage with such a classy artist.

There were several titles that I wanted to call my particular article. After several deletes, I'm satisfied with this title. You see, I try to be positive for the most part, but when I came across this blog, Ugly Costume Goddess, I had to write something about this, uh, negative page.

A new year, means a fresh start. All of us love the idea of setting new goals. How to keep up with them is the tricky part.

Most of us are ready to start the new year with all sort of new things. For those in the Los Angeles area, Princess Farhana has a bootcamp that will challenge the theatrical aspect of performance.

Whether you are buying for yourself or that special person, there is plenty of shopping out there. It is never too late, and if you are like me, you are just now starting the holiday shopping.

When a belly dancer decides to make a costume of her own, there are several things that need to be taken into consideration.

I am proud to say that I was one of the first participants at the first annual MECDA Professional Dance Conference. What an amazing five days in California with the best of the best instructors.

Today on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS), the performers danced with emotion. They were each required to perform a piece that was a moment in their life, whether good or bad. The performances were amazing.

The last article, I gave helpful suggestions on planning a successful show. Now, I want to focus on the dancers that will perform at your show and what must be done, so that dancers are willing to peform again and again at your special event.

A belly dance show and/or event takes proper planning, for in order to be successful, the planning can not be done over night. Whether there is one person or a group coordinating the show, several things need to be considered.

Belly dancers are in a unique situation when it comes to marketing themselves. Of course, not all belly dancers and belly dance troupes are alike. The name speaks a great deal and it is important when it comes to marketing.

I decided to take one night off, so that I could introduce the dancers on stage and entertain the crowd. It was the kind of role that I had always wanted to do, since I've seen the best of the best do it.

A forum is a meeting place to exchange views, thoughts, opinions about a certain issue. Bellaonline provides forums for all topics on the website. Belly dancing is no exception and it is easy to become a member of the forum.

I find myself observing what others wear during workshops and at practice. Especially at workshops, I find that most dancers who sport the best, have a great dance attitude. I can't help but to admire their confidence, yet do I really want to sacrifice my comfort to be so dolled up?

At times, I even surprise myself. A couple of days ago, I was in a panic frenzy when I realized I had no music for my workout class.

When people who have a desire to learn a new dance, they think they can just jump right into it. Snap the fingers and there it is, a new dancer. Not so fast. The body must be conditioned the right way to start any type of artistic dance.

December 11, 2010 in Houston, Texas started off as a warm day. As the day progressed, the wind came in, with all its might, bringing the temperature down. However, that didn't stop the Houston Area Belly Dance Association (HABDA) from dancing.

Dancers always want to be beautiful, loved and admired by all. A dancer wants to be flawless when she gets on the stage, receiving praises from the audience afterwards. However, there will be moments when a dancer does not have positive feedback from the audience.

It is one of the most basic moves in belly dance. Some grasp the concept, while others struggle. Here are some pointers to help you understand the movement.

Dancing, celebration, fun, can have consequences. Here are some things to remember for this Hallow's Eve celebration.

Most people believe that one workout is the cure all for everything. Dancers do other workouts that may surprise people.

Dancers probably wish they had a permanent place, so that they can have their essentials to get ready for the performance. Most of the time, dancers have to carry a bag, or two, or three. What to bring and what not, is always a dilemma.

This is part one of The Arabian Nights. Scheherazade sacrificed her freedom, so that no other woman was executed by the Sultan. However, she was able to stay alive, telling her amazing stories.

It was a totally cool experience, on a warm, Houston, Texas night. Co-Founder and Director Ken "Tulo" Knezick of Gypsy Dance Theatre, coordinated a live drum session, with black lights, strobes, and smoke machines to make the mood groovy. I am so looking forward to the next one.

If you haven't heard by now, this week is National Dance Week. Dancers from all over the United States are taking part in this week long celebration. Through May 2, 2010, dancers are putting their best foot forward to show the public that dance is alive and well.

There is something magical about dance movies. These movies we can see over and over again. What is it about these movies that make us keep watching? What is it about these movies that makes us want to dance?

With one of the largest Middle East dance programs in the United States, Samay will highlight 200 performers in Miami, Florida.

Houston, Texas was home to a workshop conducted by professional belly dancer, Sandra. It was nice to spend the weekend with such a talented belly dancer.

Today, a very disturbing message was given to all Americans. "Belly dance is on a rise because of Bin Laden", stated O'Reilly Producer Jesse Waters.

Deciding which workout is never easy. However, more and more workouts are involving dance as a sure way to burn calories, make you healthy, and most of all put fun back into working out.

The story of The Arabian Nights, inspires movies, books, music, and belly dancers. It is not uncommon to hear of belly dance songs inspired by such a magnificent book. However, to become familiar with the story, is well, another story.

The traditional question that seems to make its way once a year, is answered in hundreds of ways. Everyone answers with family and friends. Dancers are no different, but about the art of dance, yes, we are thankful.

Last minute decisions, not finding the right costume, and not having the right size, are all part of every woman's costume panic. Every woman wants to look great and sexy. At times, when a woman feels hopeless, there are always items around the house to consider.

As dancers twirl and shake their hips, their face is also performing. Facials tell everything about the dancer. Just like "hips don't lie", neither does the face.

The weather is finally cooling down, after this long hot summer. However, it is never too late to heat things up. There are many events coming up for October and November. If you like traveling and meeting up with other belly dancers, then check out the events.

I was so thrilled to learn that Gabriela was going to perform at this event. Houston, Texas has talented belly dancers, but Gabriela stands out above the rest.

I've never watched the show, "So You Think You Can Dance", but when the headlines read that the judges were emotional over a performance, I had to find out. After seeing the performance, I could not stop crying. Dance does have that power.

Make plans to attend this first annual, one of a kind event on September 26, 2009 at the Lake Tahoe Community College. Entertainer of the year 2009, Namira, is hosting the competition.

More and more belly dance classes are starting to go online. Suhaila Salimpour's choreography to "Dark Veil" was available as an online class for under twenty dollars.

In this day and age, everything is game. Music, art, food, clothes, and just about anything can be fused, creating a different result. Belly dance is no exception.

This sexy, Turkish singer can make you dance! The media called him the "Prince of Pop", and may I say, rightfully so.

After a review of Sarah Skinner's DVD, I decided to do a little research on the songs that were used in her DVD. Both are very popular, and to really find out the true meaning of Rompi Rompi and Mastika, well, everyone has their say.

Although dancers tend to become experts in their field of dance, there are dancers who explore and learn other dances. This makes the dancer knowledgeable of other music, choreography, costume, and most of all culture.

Sarah Skinner is a belly dancer living in New York. This DVD was released in 2007, but I recently purchased this fantastic DVD.

Upper body movement takes as much skill as lower body. Belly dancers have to incorporate both when dancing. It takes time and practice, so don´t give up if you still have problems.

On February 25, 2009, the most majestic bellydancers known to the world, visited Houston, Texas as part of their tour. It was a wonderful night filled with dazzling costumes, great music, and unforgettable choreography.

Dancers and others in the performing arts are taking a hit because of the economic crisis. The majority of dancers are full-time employees elsewhere, so with this crunch, dancers are making some tough decisions.

This year, the mother and dauther duo, will be hosting the 19th annual Belly Dancer of the Universe competition. Take a trip to Long Beach, California for a chance to see belly dancers compete for awards.

When a person becomes a member of Facebook, hundreds of ads are shown each time you click on to different sections. Entering your hobby also allows a person to view ads of interest. That is how I found Lacy Chenault.

Most women feel that they need dates for the holidays. However, times have changed and most women are going out to nightclubs, black tie events, and other social gatherings with their gal pals. And for the most part, women are dancing with their gal pals.

You don´t need me to tell you about this crazy economic situation. However, from this mess comes good deals that you can´t pass. Right now is the time to check out the discounts by going online. Don´t wait too long, for Christmas is just around the corner.

Dancing is not just all about technique and skill, it is also about your confidence. When a woman is confident in herself, everything falls into place. However, there are many women out there who lack it.

Right now, the weather may not be your best friend. All this craziness is keeping most people inside. Just remember that there are belly dance events all over this great country. I just decided to narrow some events that are upcoming.

Early August 2008, I had the opportunity to experience the Suhaila Salimpour Multi-Level Workshop. It was an experience that I will never forget.

On September 6, 2008, Destination Cairo performed at the HABDA Gala. It was a night filled with excellent performances by many beautiful dancers. Destination Cairo, the dance troupe that I belong to, performed to a fun, energetic song called "Hep Hup Remix" by Yeni Mezdeke.

Not much is known about Gypsy dance or the Roma culture, but through dancers like Simona Jovic, the story can be told about a culture that is vibrant. Today, she travels around the world teaching her audience the true Roma style of dance and music.

There are so many images that come to mind with the mention of the word Gypsy. Immediately, one thinks of freedom, dance, and living wild. A beautiful, earthy woman dancing for the public. These are only stereotypes.

This is the last day that you and I have an opportunity to do some last minute shopping. If you are like me, waiting till the last minute, and don´t know what to give that special person, then I have some suggestions.

Looking for a great cardio? The hip shimmy is the answer. Done correctly, this movement raises the heart rate. In dance, the hip shimmy "wows" just about anyone.

This show has received great reviews in the past. This year should be no exception. Bellydancers will take the stage along with Leela and her dance troupe.

Only at Bellaonline.com, will you be able to submit to the belly dance newsletter called The Dancing Lotus. Each newsletter will feature information about a goddess, chakra, tales of the lotus, and belly dance tips.

Want to create your own costume but don´t know how? Help is just a book away.