I'm very shy and cannot dance AT ALL. My coworkers have tried to drag me onto the dance floor during the Christmas parties and I've just been mortified. I have always wanted to learn to bellydance, but would be too shy to go take a class. Are there any good videos I can buy so I can learn in my own home? Where can I buy these?

Marian - two left feet

Helloooooooooooooooo?????????????
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Marian

I'm sorry for the late reply!!! When it rains it POURS in my world <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Anyway, to answer your question(s) if you are serious about learning to bellydance, I strongly urge you NOT to try & learn from videos. While there are some really great videos out that show you bellydance moves, NOTHING beats that live feel/vibe of class instruction. From my understanding, the instruction videos that are out are intended more for those that have at least the basics of bellydance moves & timing.

TRUST me..I totally can feel your pain about feeling too shy to go to a class but just remember...EVERYONE was a beginner at some point & felt the same way you do...a little apprehensive to dance in public. To be honest I think that mentality is a Western one & I hope more women here in the West will bust out of the mold!

What I DO suggest is you take a look at the Neena & Veena bellydance workout tapes. I reviewed them several years ago and they are fun & incorporate some bellydancing moves in the workout. Here is the link to the review that breaks down the tapes: http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art2711.asp

While this dance is beautiful, fun & graceful...it IS and can be WORK so being physically conditioned is almost required (and I'm not saying "being THIN and a size 3")! Read the review and tell me what you think.

ALso, you might want to check your local YMCA or Community center or even some community colleges offer such classes. You'll surprise yourself when you actually do come out of your shell! <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for getting back to me! :love: While I was waiting, hee hee, I purchased the Veena and Neena four tape set, as well as one called "Instructional Fitness Workout Within Traditional Movement." I also bought a CD, "The Best of George Abdo", of belly dancing music. I'm moving into my new house this week, and as soon as I'm there I intend to get started. Can't wait!!

Marian - excited

Good for you!!!! To be honest, the Neena & Veena tapes are fun...and doing a tape for 1/2 hr everyday can make a BIG difference & really make you feel good! <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Keep me posted!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm so excited for you! heheheh <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Is there some place I could get a coin belt at a good price? Is a weighted belt better than a regular coin belt? Im a beginner and I just purchased The goddess workout.I had the belly queen dvd already. I wanted a variety.Is all belly dancing the same? Or are there differnt styles?

I have the goddesslife workout series and belly queen dvds. Belly dancing is fun in your home but next week I got inspired to take a belly dance class this coming thursday!!! Last night I just purchased a belly dancing outfit. Im also waiting for a coin hip scarf from egypt treasures!!! Im so excited I have butterflys!! I have never felt so EMPOWERED WHEN IM DANCING!!!!!! My self esteem has soared!!!

CAn anyone please tell me what kind of shoes I need????????????????????

I thought I would wear high heels but I want to look good but not fall on my butt!! I have two left feet!!! But when Im at home dancing I feel like a pro!!!!