Did you know that Belly dance is the most ancient form of dance and theorized as having originated to aid women during labor & childbirth?  This sacred dance is unique in that it not only benefits women on all levels of their being, but also empowers through self expression and creating community among women.  The pelvic isolations of movement contribute to the healthy functioning of a woman's  abdomino-pelvic organs &muscles.  Thousands of years later, today's belly dancer is still practicing as it was developed.  Sometimes the ways in which we perform movements may lead to injuries (repetitive strain and/or pain to the low back, knees, and shoulders, and innefficient postures and muscle recruitment patterns).

The demands of our modern lifestyles have affected our posture, level of physical activity, the types of diseases that afflict us, and how we practice belly dance to name a few.  Recent studies in movement science, have enlightened us with a more precise understanding of how the body moves and functions.  Optimal and faulty muscle recruitment patterns have been identified that contribute to many common musculoskeletal impairments.

Integrating current information on how the body moves and creates stability with refined mobility has many applications for dancers and dance teachers.  This information inspires a deeper self understanding, a new level of confidence and effectiveness, and ensures the highest degree of safety.  Course information can be applied to benefit all ages, abilities, levels, and styles of dance.

Participants will learn:
  • Current research findings pertaining to how the body moves and functions and it's relevance to the safe teaching and performance of belly dance.
  • Through awareness and experiential exercises how to integrate movement science and biomechanical based principles into any style of belly dance.
  • Teaching methods to enhance the performance and learning of movements with proper recruitment and coordination of specific muscle groups.
  • Contraindicated movement patterns that contribute to injury.
Cost: $65

Three hour workshop includes handouts and music CD.

Instructor
Michelle Maniaci is a licensed physical therapist and certified yoga teacher who has been practicing for over 12 years.  She has developed a scientifically grounded approach to yoga and belly dance based movements from her deep understanding of Movement Science (the study of anatomy, kinesiology, biomechanics, arthrokinematics, motor control, and motor learning theory). 

Michelle is passionate about sharing a style of dance that is highly effective, scientifically grounded, fun, and safe.  Michelle believes belly dance is a highly therapeutic dance, once adapted. Her mission is to bring the highest level of safety and integrity to this ancient dance and yoga.

Contact Michelle at 305.206.2229  to offer this workshop at your studio or center.
The Biomechanics of Belly Dance
Integrating movement science with belly dance for optimal safety, effectiveness, injury prevention, and performance enhancement.