Unhappy About Your Body? Then Start Belly Dancing: Study

Belly dancing changes the way you look at your body and weight, according to a study.

It is a known fact that dancers are fitter and have sculpted bodies. A past survey suggests modern dancers achieve better physique than those who perform exotic dance styles like flamenco and pasadoble. Researchers from the Flinder University found women who belly danced tend to have positive body image than who don't.

Belly dancing is a mixture of three cultures - Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and North African- that involves swaying and twisting the body and midriff withcoins sewed on to the costume.  The ancient dance style was an integral part of fertility rituals and wedding ceremonies. In the recent trial, the experts looked at 112 belly dancers enrolled in two renowned dance schools and 101 women who never danced. They surveyed participants about their self-image and perception on body, shape, size and weight.

Their analysis revealed women who were belly dancers had fewer inhibitions about their physical appearances and body type while non-dancing subjects were more likely to compare themselves with others and always thought they were unattractive.

Dancing is the most effective and therapeutic form of exercising that not only helps get rid of unwanted body weight and fat but, also negative thoughts and stress. The authors therefore urge women to take up belly dancing to have fun and also feel sexy.

"Belly dancing is an activity associated with positive body image, because participants tend to focus less on their external appearance, and more on the experience and what they are able to do with their bodies. It allows women a rare, safe and creative opportunity for exploring and expressing their sensual and sexual selves," said Marika Tiggemann, study author and researcher from the Flinder University, reports the Red Orbit News.

More information is available online in the journal Sex Roles.