Belly Dance
Your Instructor:​
Khuzama Lavender
​
Khuzama is a multi-award-winning professional belly dancer, choreographer, and instructor from the Philadelphia area and has performed at countless events all over the Philadelphia tri-state area (and as far as California!). She is the Director of a troupe called the Raqs Diva's and a choreographer for M.O.D.E Dance Company. She teaches choreography to dancers in the Philadelphia, Maryland and Harrisburg areas. She has performed for the Mayor of Philadelphia, at the World Cafe Live, at several cultural festivals, and at Harrah's Casino. She has sponsored famous dancers to encourage cultural growth and education in the dance community and guest performing at various venues all around the tri-state area and the country.
Belly dancing is based on one of the oldest social dances in world history, originating in North Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Belly dancing is both a beautiful form of dance and a great way to exercise. it'll help you stay in shape and allow you to express your personal creativity. belly dancing is enjoyed by many people all over the world. Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of belly dancing is the isolated movements performed by the abdomen. These belly movements may be circular, rolling, angular, or vibrating.
​
Can I learn to belly dance?
Anyone and everyone can learn how to belly dance. Belly dance is both a beautiful art form and a great form of exercise for women (and men) of all shapes, sizes, ages, and skill levels. Unlike ballet, most belly dance moves come naturally to the body, so you don't have to be young to begin learning.
​
What are the health benefits of belly dancing?
Besides providing a fun, low-impact workout, belly dance strengthens and tones the entire body while developing balance and grace. Belly dancing also improves flexibility of the hips and spine as well as increases core strength. Belly dance movements, when done correctly, strengthen the deep postural muscles of the spine, abdominals, and hips. Postural alignment is a focus in every belly dance class.
​
Why just exercise the abs?
Although it may seem that only the abdominal area is moving, belly dancing involves several other parts of the body as well. While belly dancing, a dancer must isolate major muscle groups and work them in isolation or in opposition to other parts of the body.
​
Can I belly dance while pregnant?
Yes! We have taught students up to their 7th month. Belly dance is an excellent activity for toning the muscles used in childbirth. If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider.
​
Am I too old to belly dance?
Most dancers working the professional club/restaurant/party circuit are in the 20 - 40 age group. Dancers performing at amateur events such as belly dance festivals perform through their 50s and 60s.
​
Am I too heavy/tiny to belly dance?
Probably not. Most Level 1 and Level 2 belly dance movements can be done by ANYONE in reasonably good health. If you have serious health problems related to your weight, seek the advice of your doctor. For most people (even those "out of shape"), Belly dance provides a moderate workout that is very beneficial to your health no matter what size you are.
​
Am I too young to belly dance?
Every teacher will have her own rules on this. Ruth takes students from age 12 in adult classes.
​
Get Toned with this
Joyful Workout
expressive of culture
Lorelei using finger cymbals to live music at Art of the Belly 2018.