Bellydance is both easy and challenging. It’s so easy to get started and to have fun. But, the challenging part is committing the movements to muscle memory.
Now, don’t let this deter you from trying a beginners bellydance class! You can learn and integrate the movements of bellydance easily with just 10 minutes of practice a day.
Let’s look at some key tips to follow to help you start bellydancing in no time.
#1 Schedule that 10 minute practice!
It sounds easy, but for some of us, that can be quite a challenge! I know we all have busy lives, especially if you are working or have kids. But you need to find the time to fit in 10 minutes of bellydance practice.
Look at your schedule, whether on your phone or an event planner, and pencil (or type) it in! Do it while you wait for coffee to brew, on a lunch break, or an hour before bed.
#2 Make a Playlist that Inspires Movement
Sometimes, it’s just a battle to find the motivation for movement. That’s why I will create a playlist of my favorite middle eastern music to just inspire me to move. In 2013, the Journal of Positive Psychology showed that upbeat music can up uplift your mood. That may explain why I love Saidi music so much!
#3 Pick One Thing to Practice
When people say “practice bellydance for 10 minutes a day”, the beginner bellydancer may start wondering, “Well, what do I practice in that short time?” If you feel bogged down by deciding what to practice, try picking one movement that was challenging to you. Is it a hip drop? That undulation? Maybe it’s the straight leg shimmy.
You can also set aside a theme each day for your practice! Make Mondays your shimmy day, Tuesdays for figure 8s, and so on. Last, you can download an app, like Tiny Decisions, which you fill in the wheel with movements and it makes a decision for you!
#4 Enjoy the Journey
Let’s get a little intimate here; enjoy your journey with dance. A journey is not smooth sailing all the way. There will be challenges, triumphs and so-so moments. Whatever it is, take it in stride. I promise you are going to get to exactly where you want to be!
Do you feel better and more equipped about practicing 10 minutes each day? Great! Now, go schedule that practice time, have fun, and enjoy the process!
Want to try a free beginners bellydance class? Get lifetime access to my Bellydance for Beginners series where I teach you 5 movements in under 30 minutes! You know you’ll regret it if you don’t try it!
Ariyana - Bellydancer in Hawaii 