Ever since I was a little girl, I loved to dance. I love how freeing it is to loose myself in the music. I took a few ballet classes as a child, but I have always wanted to do more.
“My self-esteem and body issues slipped away with every figure eight, hip drop and shimmy I learned.”
After my divorce I felt broken, I couldn’t recognize the person I’d become. I needed to do something for me, something that would bring my heart joy and my mind peace. Remembering how dancing made me feel, I researched what kind of adult dance classes were available in my community. I found the answer in belly dancing. I signed up for an 8-week class at Feminicity and it was my first step towards repairing the broken pieces.
My self-esteem and body issues slipped away with every figure eight, hip drop and shimmy I learned. These graceful and sensual movements not only restored my self-confidence, but also awakened my feminine side. I was me, again. Belly dancing offers many benefits outside my realm of experience so if you are interested in learning more, I recommend following Joany, dance instructor and founder of Feminicity.
My Next Step
Liking this new side of myself, I decided to expand my dance repertoire. I attempted a pole dancing class and found it to be a great work-out, but felt I didn’t have the upper body strength it demanded. However; I did love my introduction to burlesque and I took multiple classes offered through Feminicity. Feminicity offered a variety of classes that fit under the burlesque umbrella like: flapper, go-go, coyote ugly and vintage. These modestly risqué routines were created to make you feel sexy and confident as you move flirtatiously across the floor. You learned quickly that it is more than just a dance routine; it is a performance.
I later transitioned from taking classes to performing on stage with the Feminicity burlesque troupe. We did our own cabaret shows and booked small appearances within our community. I loved every minute of it, and I am so thankful I took that first step.
performing in my last Cabaret. 
Flapper’s Performance, at a wedding 
Getting Ready to Perform “Thriller” 
Cabaret Cast from 2013
Looking back, I am amazed how far I’ve come and how dancing transformed me from being a broken bird to one that soars…. or I should say; shimmies.
My name is Elise, I am a Bucket List Blogger, who inspires and helps others complete their own adventures by sharing my experiences and recommendations.
is it hard to learn Belly Dancing?
Doing a belly dancing class can seem intimidating, but if choose a class geared to beginners you will be in good hands… and practise makes perfect.
If you decide to take a class, I would love to hear from you again. Let me know how it went.