Ahlan wa Salan,
Welcome to Emerald Belly Dance
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Welcome to Emerald Belly Dance, where every step tells a story of renewal, growth and passion. My journey is inspired by the timeless allure of emeralds, which have long symbolized rebirth and healing.
After a period of rest and recovery I am thrilled to reignite my passion for dance and share it with the community.
Just as emeralds reflect the vibrant hues of growth and vitality, I strive to bring that same energy and spirit to every dance class and performance.
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The Emerald ExperienceÂ
Enjoy guided mindfulness of belly dance classes.
Practice with us as much as you want.
Meet the Instuctor
Kahina is a professional Middle Eastern dancer who finds immense joy in sharing her passion for dance through teaching and performance. She firmly believes in the physical, emotional, and spiritual healing power of dance.
Kahina embarked on her dance journey with her first Middle Eastern Dance class at the Appleton YMCA. Though the start was challenging, her love for the music and the movement of the dance has kept her dancing for over 20 years.
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Kahina is well-versed in classical Egyptian, Baladi and American cabaret style dance. Her studies also include the folk dances of North Africa and the Gulf, as well as Turkish, Tunisian, and shaabi styles. Her favorite dance accompaniments are the zils and veil.
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“There is always more to learn from someone, somewhere, because we don’t know what we don’t know.”
Why Choose Emerald Belly Dance
Dedication to Healing and Growth: I believe I the power of dance to heal and inspire. The studio is a place where you can rediscover your strength, grace, and joy. Join me on this journey, and lets create something beautiful together. Whether you are an seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, Emerald Belly Dance welcomes you with open arms and a heart full of rhythm.
Rich Heritage: The first emerald mines were in ancient Egypt, a land of mystery and beautiful dance traditions. I carry that rich heritage forward in my teaching and performances.
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Personal Connection: The name is deeply personal and meaningful to me, chosen to represent a fresh start and the beauty of renewal.
Emerald is not only my favorite color but also my son’s birthstone.
Q and AÂ
How old do I need to be?
I take students 16 and older
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What should I wear to class?
Comfortable clothes that will allow you full range of motion. Most students wear yoga type pants and comfy top. Not to baggy, you should be able to see your movements. And of course a hip scarf. If you don't have a hip scarf I always have extras with me for anyone to use.
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Is this a good type of exercise?
Yes, it is an excellent exercise for women of all ages and fitness abilities. Oriental dance is gentle movement that works with the structure and muscles of women. It is not high impact aerobic exercise that can stress joints or tear muscles.
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What style of Middle Eastern dance do you teach?
I teach classical Oriental dance. In class we will use traditional, classical, pop and modern music from Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, Morocco, and Tunisia.
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History
The history of Middle Eastern Dance is very long and also a little vague. There are no written documents that can pinpoint the beginning of the dance. We do know that it is ancient and archaeologists have unearthed pottery with what is believed to be dancing on it. But is that the start of Middle Eastern dance or is it just dance, people moving their bodies to natural rhythms?
We do know that dancing is shown on the tombs and in art from the time of the Pharaohs, dated to 4000 BCE. There is mention of dance and dancers in hieroglyphics from that time but we do not know what the movements were or the music used. We do know the instruments that were played, but can not for certain say what the "songs" were.
Sessions
Beginner
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Intermediate
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Advanced
Journey Wellness Building
47 S. Main Street
Clintonville
Tuesday 6:30-7:30
Jensen Community Center
487 N.Main Street
Amherst
Wednesday 6:00-7:00
Join us for a fun, inclusive environment where you’ll learn traditional techniques while boosting your confidence and fitness.
Sign up today and embark on a journey of grace, joy, and community.
Classes for Beginners
Discover Belly Dance for Mind, Body, and Soul!
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In this class, you will learn the foundations of Middle Eastern dance. The 8 week session will cover:
Proper dance posture
Basic moves like the hip slide, hip circle, chest lift
Two types of shimmies, hip ups and shoulder shimmy
The moves will be broken down and repeated to help develop muscle memory. You will practice these moves in short combos that will vary, showing how the same move can be adapted to different music.
By the end of the session you will;
Feel more confident with the moves you have learned
Improve your flexibility
Have Fun!!
Belly dance is for everyone! There are no age limits, size limits or gender limits. The only thing you need is a sense of adventure and a willingness to have some fun dancing. At Emerald Belly Dance, I believe that dance is a powerful form of expression and healing that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their background or experience level.​
May our dance always be a bridge to understanding,
May our dance always be a celebration of diversity,
May our dance always be an instrument for peace.
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Dr. Laurel Victoria Grey
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