My bellydance journey began several years ago, on a whim – I didn’t know much about bellydance when I first started attending classes, but I wanted an excuse to buy one of those beautiful, sparkly hip scarves, so I decided I would go along to a lesson. I tried two different classes in Brisbane but didn’t really feel inspired by either of them, and I had almost given up the idea when I came across a flyer for Ambyr’s classes in Fortitude Valley. I’m pretty sure that by the end of the first lesson with Ambyr I was already in love with bellydance, and I felt that I just had to learn how to do these incredible movements (although they felt ridiculously awkward at that point!).
In the years since, I have continued dancing with Ambyr and QBA, through beginner and intermediate, and up to an advanced level of classes, and bellydance has become one of the great passions of my life – I can’t imagine not dancing, and I do it every day, even if for just one song. My iPod has more middle eastern music than any other genre on it these days, and there is something about the rhythms and sounds that calls me to dance – it’s impossible not to. I’ve learnt a lot about the different styles of oriental dance, the history, and the great performers, all of which has helped with my own development as a dancer, and having the example of such inspiring teachers and dancers as Ambyr and Nerissa has been a blessing.
Bellydance has contributed to my wellbeing and happiness in many ways – improved posture and fitness, the development of performance and improvisation skills, and friendships – so many lovely women seem to be drawn to this dance. I have attended workshops with many amazing teachers and have learnt a great deal, but there is still so much to learn – my wish is to continue to improve as a dancer, to continue to discover and define my dance personality, and to continue feeling joyful and inspired when I dance. I am so grateful that I discovered bellydance, and I know it will always be an important part of my life.