Okay. I'm 44 years old and just begining Belly Dancing lessons this Wednesday night. I worry that I'll be in a class with teenagers and won't fit in with all of the thin and gorgeous athletic and flexible young people although the instructor assures me this won't happen. I wonder if she realizes I haven't been very flexible for awhile now. Hmmmm. My last child left for college last year. However, I still do things for my three children and now my elderly mother who moved in next door. I work full time. So, my life is busy even if I don't have small children at home. I'm new to tribes, new to joining one and not sure what to do or what I am supposed to do. Aye! I want to learn to Belly Dance, I have always wanted to learn but had no time. I want to do something different and fun. Am I crazy? Too old? Who knows. I guess I'll step out into the unknown and see what happens. Advice welcome.
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Re: OLDER MOM - BRAND NEW TO BELLY DANCING
Mon, May 8, 2006 - 10:22 AMLaurie...first let me say.. Congratulations for taking on a new adventure that may seem a bit frightening to you right now considering your concerns. What you express is not uncommon and I felt very much the way you did when I first started.
First of all....There is no age limit. If you are 80 and can still kick it then more power to you. I tend to lean towards the belief that the more seasoned a women is, the more successful she will be. You age is a plus not a detriment in the world of BD.
Secondly...BD does not discriminate based on weight. Anyone of any size can do it. It is society that discriminates and that is the aim of manner dancers to change societal perceptions. I always say...you gotta have it to shake it and if you don't have it then a few embellishments here and there will give you all the boost you need.
Finally...flexibility comes with training. If you don't have it, you will learn it. It takes time though as belly dance is not an easy discipline but with patience and dedication you will start to see some wonderful results.
So...in summation, you are not too old, you are not crazy (well no crazier then the rest of us here) and I bet you will make a beautiful dancer. Stepping into the unknown could end up being the best decision of your life. I personally make a practice of it.
Good luck!
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Re: OLDER MOM - BRAND NEW TO BELLY DANCING
Mon, August 7, 2006 - 5:44 PMCongratulations on taking that step, and what seems like a risky on to you, at that!
The women of bellydance, I have found, are all shapes, sizes, and ages, and come together as a strong community. It is wonderful that you are finally pursuing something you wanted for yourself. And it sounds like now is a good time for it. ;)
Anne Marie is right. The flexibility will come. And beatiful bellydancers come in all sizes. Some of the ones who are considered most beautiful around the world weigh a bit more. Being more voluptuous allows the movement to be seen better. Many wouldn't have it any other way. Bellydancing, by the way, has a way of changing the way we look at our own bodies. And at other women.
Enjoy the Journey,
Peace,
T
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