Belly Dance Classes
Therapeutic Egyptian Belly Dance at Caves Beach
At the Caves Beach Hotel
No classes on at present
What is the reason behind naming this series of classes Therapeutic Egyptian Belly Dance Classes?
We begin our classes in a calm and unhurried manner, often starting on the mat. We gradually ease into our practise & prepare the body to atune to the Arabic tuunes, immersing ourselves in the music and connecting with our bodies . This may include gentle, yoga-inspired and somatic stretches that offer a therapeutic element to prepare your body for the class in preparation for the body to dance and move. The end of your class may also include this.
What should you anticipate from the Belly Dance Classes?
Belly Dance is a fantastic way to exercise both the body and mind. It involves isolating different parts of the body and attuning your ear to the intricate melodies and rhythms of Arabic music. In class you will master various moves, including but not limited to:
Moves that involve hip motion:
- Hip bumps single and doubles.
- Circles
- Figure of 8’s
- Tummy rolls
- Tummy bumps
- Camels
- Mayas
- basic shimmies
Upper body movements using:
- Chest lifts and slides
- Shoulder rolls
- Chest and shoulder shimmies
All the names given are purely descriptive and not definitively right or wrong; they may differ with various instructors.
Don't be discouraged if progress seems slow in the initial weeks, each class is different .
Think of it as a musical journey towards a destination; once you grasp the basics, you can progress and improve at a faster rate.
Set your own pace!
We all began as beginners in dancing – even myself!
Each of us is unique, with some finding certain moves easier than others.
Focus on your own progress and abilities, rather than comparing yourself to others.
Connect with your classmates to enhance the fun factor – after all, enjoyment is a big part of why you're here!
In your initial class, concentrate on your posture and breathe through every movement.
Observe, sense, and be mindful of your distinct self.
BREATH
If you are not breathing with the movement, the movement has no life.
To truly embody a movement, one must synchronize their breath with it, allowing the breath to guide and give life to the motion.
- Breathing in harmony with movement not only enhances the physical aspect but also connects the mind and body in a more profound way.
- When your breath is in tune with your movements, you will find a sense of ease and fluidity that can elevate your practice or performance.
- The connection between breath and movement can make even challenging or isolating exercises feel more natural and effortless.
- By focusing on integrating breath into your movements, you can enhance your overall experience and achieve a deeper level of connection within yourself.
Correct posture is important!
If you ever feel unwell, are managing a previous injury, or require water – take a break!
Feel free to inform me if you need any help. Remember, you understand your body best.
Choreography and instinctive movement
I aim to guide you in expressing your emotions through movement rather than solely depending on choreography.
This dance style embraces the beauty of spontaneity in response to the music.
While choreography is essential in a class setting , I aim to combine sequences of movements to establish a cohesive flow, crafting a story with your every motion synchronized with the song or music.
This may help you to “ad-lib” and move naturally later.
As you start to isolate, we will put what you know into a dance to music or a song.
Some classes though we will work with a choregraphy .
Understanding the Music.
Initially some Arabic music may sound strange to the western ear .
“Arabic music is the basis for all Oriental dance and dance is the visual voice for Arabic Music.”
Arabic music and dance have undergone significant changes in this century, constantly evolving through cross-cultural influences and Western contributions. Egyptian Oriental dance as well and in particular, has greatly impacted movement and dance in Western cultures.
Oriental Egyptian dance for the stage, as we know it today incorporates music from as far back as humans have danced .For example , dancers are depicted and in-scripted on stories throughout the walls of the pyramids .
Egyptian dance is ever evolving, shifting, and being influenced in many different ways – for dancers that perform music is carefully chosen for performance - incorporating many different styles of the dance.
“My preference is always to use Arabic music for this dance, it is the music that feeds the soul of the dance. ”
Group classes are not designed for you to become a professional dancer – that requires years of dedicated practice. Instead, they are intended for you to grasp the basics of dance, stay active, enjoy yourself, socialize through dance, and gain a deeper insight into the world of Belly dance.
If your dream is to pursue a career as a solo performer, we can always explore that option and customize a plan specifically for you.
You can be whoever and whatever level you like with this dance ., social or professional .
I promote individuality, spontaneity, body awareness, and, most importantly, having fun!
Background about Belly Dance (In a very small nutshell!)
"Belly dance" is the term originating from the Western world to describe this dance form.
Some dance historians suggest that the term emerged in the USA in the early 18th century, while others propose it was derived from the French term "Danse Du Ventre" during the same period.
In the Middle East, "Raks Sharqi" translates to "Oriental dance" and is commonly used by some practitioners.
Occasionally, I may use the term "Oriental" when referring to Egyptian Dance, which is associated with the era of Orientalism.
Some Westerners may not connect with this term as it could be mistaken for dance styles from Asian countries.
I prefer to characterize the style I teach as Egyptian dance, which is rooted in my lineage and the classical Egyptian style.
The Middle Eastern region is vast.
The music and dance have ancient roots that span centuries, with numerous regional dance styles reflecting its rich history.
Various styles of this dance include, but are not limited to:
- Folkloric: Representing Northern Africa, Gulf, Bedouin, Ghawazee, Eskanderani, and more.
- Classical: Showcasing traditional Egyptian dancers, stage performances, and intricate music compositions.
- Contemporary: Featuring Cross-Cultural influences from Turkish, Arabic, Greek, and American/Western styles like tribal.
Embarking on a journey to learn Oriental Belly Dance is just the beginning of a vast world. As you delve into this art form, remember that the internet is a treasure trove of information, and I am delighted to guide you towards influential figures in the Oriental Belly Dance community.
No matter your proficiency level, you will always remain a perpetual student, as this dance form evolves and adapts continuously.
A little bit about me!
I started as a private student in 1985 with Rozeta Ahalyeas in Sydney. My training started by way of private classes as there was not really a place where you could go and take classes in those days.
I founded Ameras Palace Belly Dance boutique and school in 1987 in Newtown, since relocated to Marrickville, Sydney NSW. Ameras Palace has been in the central pulse point of Belly dance in Australia and is now celebrating 37 years. It is still alive and well today run by my long-time friend, Ali Higson. Please check out the webpage www.ameraspalace.com.au .
My background is European/Egyptian descent. I started performing in Arabic Nightclubs in 1985 in Sydney, then went on to work in 5-star hotels in Europe and all over the Middle East and was based in Lebanon, I stopped performing over a decade ago professional, but I still go back and forth to Egypt and Lebanon to study and teach with top choreographers – I am still the eternal student! I also take people on tours to Egypt yearly and have been doing so since 1999 .
You can find out a bit more about me on google or Wikipedia by typing in “Amera Eid “or visiting my webpage www.ameraeid.com.
Good Luck? Feel comfortable and relaxed and do not hesitate to come to me with any questions! or contact me at info@ameraeid.com .
Happy Shimmies
©Amera Eid 2024
References:
www.ameraspalace.com.au – for all your dance needs
FAQs
What should I wear/bring?
Wear comfortable, flexible attire that allows for easy movement:
- Opt for dance pants, gym pants, yoga pants, or leggings for the lower body to ensure the teacher can observe your leg and knee movements clearly.
- Avoid wearing jeans or skirts. For the upper body, consider wearing t-shirts or singlets; there's no need to show your midriff.
- Feet can be bare or in moments or ballet slippers; avoid runners but dance runners are acceptable.
- Enhance hip movements and feel more connected by wearing a hip scarf. You can choose a jingly or plain scarf based on your preference.
Remeber always hydrate your body and bring a bottle of water.
Don't let age, weight, or fitness level hold you back from dancing – you're ready to hit the dance floor just as you are!
Embrace the diversity of dancers, spanning all ages, body types, and fitness levels.
Classes often welcome girls aged 4 to women aged 75, catering to various abilities.
Discover a fresh love for movement and dance with exotic Middle Eastern music, vibrant colors, veils, hip scarves, and the camaraderie of dancing with other women.
Whether you're already in good shape or looking for a new challenge, belly dancing offers a unique physical and mental experience as you explore new ways to move your body.
Starting a new dance class is like starting any other program of physical activity: check with your doctor first and let the teacher know, especially if you have back and joint problems, are very overweight or unfit, or are pregnant.
I have never danced in my life. Can I, do it?
Give it a try! The movements of belly dance are natural to women's bodies, and in many cultures, girls grow up dancing, without ever taking classes.
Belly dance moves are explained so that you understand them and your own body.
Can I bring my child(ren) with me??
Mothers are welcome to bring their daughters as young as 4 years old if they are mature enough to participate.
When enrolling with a paying adult, and if space permits in the class, girls under 18 are half price. The adult is expected to take responsibility for their child and ensure class is not disrupted. Women aged 14 and over may enrol individually with parental permission (at full price).
Where are the classes held?
This weekly class is at Peachy studio 60 Caves Beach Road, Caves Beach
Do you teach private classes, group classes or workshops?
Please contact me individually to discuss on 0412 0099 83 or email me at info@ameraeid.com
Please arrive at least Five to ten minutes before the scheduled class time.
Give yourself a realistic amount of time for travel, parking, signing in and getting changed. It is important to participate in the warm-up to prepare your body for the rest of the class.
How long are the classes?
All classes are one hour (1 hour) long and may go over time for private classes .
Stretching and warm up and cool down are incorporated in the class – again your welcome to bring a yoga mat or a towel to lie down on if we do stretches on the floor.
Terms and Conditions
Weekly Classes
Bookings are essential as the venue we are using has a maximum nyumber This can be done by SMS/Phone or email . start from $20 a week for a one hour class cash or you can bank transfer
Curated private group classes for women are available .
The minimum number of people required is 8, with prices starting at $35 per person for an hour or based on a customized experience arrangement.
Private classes - Performance and for Personal training
Bookings by email . These classes are per person and no more than 2 in a class.
Mentoring and Workshops
Expressions of interest and bookings by email info@ameraeid.com