Belly Dancing is often referred to as Raks Sharki which means "Dance of the east" or "Oriential Dance". This is one of the oldest dance forms in history. Much research has been done into it's origin. However, there are many conflicting theories and much confusion. A few of the more widely accepted theories are;-
It Oriental from indigenous dances of ancient upper Egypt
It originated in Greece spreading with Alexander The Great
It descends from a Religious dance once practiced by temple priestesses
It had been a part of traditional birthing practices in the region of it's origin
It had spread from the migrations of the Romany Peoples (Also called Gypsies) and related groups descended from the Banjara of Rajasthan in north west India
It originated in India, to Uzbekistan through the slave trade
The Dance has grown fusing together many folk dance styles in it's migration across the continents. The styles vary to include Egyptian, Turkish, Gypsy, American, Tribal, Cabaret and many more. All of these styles share the same
basic foundation linking them together under the Belly Dance umbrella.
Today the dance is usually understood to be the practise control of muscle groups creating isolation of body movements. The strength and flexibility of movement gives the dancer the hypnotic power to enthral their audience.
