| So with Summer right around the corner again, we | | | | around the rib cage. This allows for a strong back |
| begin thinking of ways to get in shape for "more | | | | while promoting good posture helping to prevent back |
| revealing" clothing. From tank tops to shorts to bathing | | | | problems. |
| suits, it is the time of year we all tend to show more | | | | By learning to undulate or, roll your stomach, you |
| skin. So of course we prefer to be trim and tone. | | | | strengthen the muscles that aid in digestion as well as |
| Every Spring we look for ways to achieve this this. | | | | the muscles that aid in child birth. The hip moves and |
| There are many health benefits to belly dancing. Belly | | | | shimmies help to strengthen the pelvic muscles which |
| dance is an exercise that tones and strengthens all the | | | | aid in pregnancy and childbirth. |
| muscles of the body while building flexibility (especially | | | | Other health benefits include muscle control, mind-body |
| in the hips, spine and rib cage). It also builds arm | | | | coordination, increased balance, mood elevation, a |
| strength, improves posture, aids digestion, and relieves | | | | sense of grace, and core conditioning. It also benefits |
| stress. This dance is known as a "muscle dance" as | | | | the heart. While performing belly dance you will not |
| opposed to a "step" dance. This makes it low-impact, | | | | only tone and stretch your body, but you will also |
| so it is easy on the joints and a good exercise choice | | | | sweat a bit giving you a cardiovascular workout. It can |
| for women of all ages. | | | | burn over 300 calories an hour. This can aid in weight |
| Belly dance can also help prevent back problems. The | | | | loss. Besides these benefits it has also been shown to |
| back muscles are evenly used as are the muscles | | | | increase ones self esteem and body image. |