• Muscles used in the birthing process are exercised. A birthing woman needs to have flexible and strong muscles. With bellydance, the abdomen, torso, pelvic muscles and thigh are all strengthened. We add the breathwork for deep core connection and nervous system healing.

• Less need for a C-section. Bellydance also focuses on the hip movements. As an effective childbirth preparation exercise, it helps avoid the mal-positioning of the baby’s head in the birth canal because the slow hip movements along with breathing, help the baby to find its best or optimal position.

• Helps minimize pain in labor. Since bellydance is also a form of meditation, mothers could help themselves in counteracting the pain and panic during the birthing process. The shimmies in bellydance also help to disperse the pain and tension when in labo hence, potentially giving them a less stressful childbirth.

• Muscle toning. It improves posture and muscle toning which prepares women during childbirth. It addresses the major muscle groups that will be used during labor. The sways, hip drops, figure 8’s, etc work with the muscles, especially the pelvic and abdominal muscles. The dance should be done properly so it can help prevent lower back problems and maintain flexibility. Belly dancing is a natural way to get the baby in the right position for birth. Toning the muscles in the pelvic floor also reduces the chances of uterine prolapse.

• Reduces stress. The rhythm and subtle movements of belly dancing are very soothing. The repetition of the moves and meditation relaxes the mind and clears the stressful things away that may have been lingering in your mind for quite some time. It helps you with visualization. When a person is stressed, muscles tend to contract thus we feel pain, but through belly dancing, the sore muscles are relaxed. It also facilitates proper blood flow.

• Aids digestion. Cravings for pregnant women can be challenging to the body and health. Belly dancing has movements that primarily involve the pelvic and abdominal area. By moving the torso, it allows the food to move along the digestive tract efficiently. This is a good way to prevent constipation in the long run.

• Boosts self-esteem. During pregnancy, women can’t help but be conscious about their weight and their looks and may become sensitive. Because belly dancing has a very feminine energy, it makes one feel more beautiful and gives women a more positive self image.

Now that you know how beneficial belly dancing is, why don’t you start doing it? Nothing feels better than knowing that you can get so much out of dancing. But be guided accordingly when doing this, especially if it’s your first time.