Bellydance -- more properly known as Raks Sharki has nothing to do with stripping, entertaining the sheik in the harem, etc. It is descended from the folk dances of Middle East, where it is done by both men and women.

The two-piece bra and belt, "I Dream of Jeannie" outfit you may think of as "traditional" costuming did not originate in the Middle East -- the idea was borrowed from Hollywood movies!

Those of us who are in love with this dance don't do it to titillate men but because we find it a strong, powerful, and joyous artistic expression.

Many experts say belly dancing is the oldest form of dance, having roots in all ancient cultures from the orient to India to the mid-East. Probably the greatest misconception about belly dancing is that it is intended to entertain men. Throughout history, this ritualized expression has usually been performed for other women--generally during fertility rites or parties preparing a young woman for marriage. In most cases, the presence of men is not permitted. Belly dancing is natural to a woman's bone and muscle structure with movements emanating from the torso rather than in the legs and feet. The dance often focuses upon isolating different parts of the body, moving them independently in sensuous patterns, weaving together the entire feminine form.

Dancing can make you healthy, too!!!