I've been thinking and talking about the healing aspects of sacred belly dance lately. As an adolescent, coming into my body was awkward and studying dance was a valuable tool in developing grace and confidence. It also gave me a passion and identity outside of school, which is invaluable. I'm inspired by programs such as our local transcendanceyoutharts.org/, a San Diego-based non-profit that provides professional training in dance, choreography, creative writing, and theatre to multi-cultural, inner-city youth in San Diego, with the firm belief that the arts can be an effective vehicle for mobilizing and empowering people to work for social change in their communities.

As I help to shepherd one of my best friends' daughter though the transition into adolescence, I see how teaching her these ancient feminine movements could transform her self-esteem and give her a better understanding of her own power as a beautiful woman. And isn't this what so many of us need? So many women view their bodies as a source of shame. Too this, not enough that -- but none of these apply in the safe and supportive belly dance community of women. Women of all shapes and sizes have the capacity to discover their own beauty in the dance circle. How very empowering to tap into that deep well of sensuality we carry in our bellies, and to support one another in a non-competitive environment -- to connect to one another as a sisterhood.

It is my mission to spread these blessings into my community and beyond. Let's make it happen!