If you’re taking belly dance class, chances are you have a place at home where you dance. It may be between the TV and the couch, with the coffee table pushed out of the way; or a hallway that’s long and narrow; a clear spot in your bedroom; or even your kitchen! I’ve heard so many creative ways people have found a place to practice at home.
But students who are really involved in the dance usually set aside a special area in their home, from an entire room to just part of a room, where they can set up mirrors and a sound system. Your space may not be a glorious mirrored studio with wood floors, but don’t be embarrassed. The point is you’ve taken the time to make this space your own by dancing in it - even if it’s just for a few minutes.
I also used to dance between the bed and the wall, looking into a chipped mirror I scrounged from somewhere. In fact I remember that bedroom ceiling was so low I had to go outside to practice veil dancing! I must’ve looked funny out in the dirt yard swirling a sparkly veil around and dodging dogs and chickens. Other times I’d go into the kid’s room, which was larger, kick the toys out of the way, and practice travel steps.
The dance took me out of these cramped and uninspiring surroundings to a world of joyful creativity. I’d dance for hours, finally vibrating like a plucked string as so much energy flowed through me until I was drenched in sweat. Ah, youth! But this can happen when you let the spirit of creativity move you - you don’t need a spiffy studio and fancy decor - just time to dance.
It’s inspiring to see the places where students dance in their homes. I believe these “sacred spaces” encourage dancing and help students grow, EVEN if it’s not fancy at all. Would you like yours included on my Pinterest Dance Spaces board? I’d love to include it: send me your dance space photo and info, or a link to your photo: anthea (at) kawakib (dot) com - let’s encourage each other to create our own practice space!