Author: Bella Diva Dance

Starting Tuesday, Jan. 7th at 6:30 PM, Bella Diva will be offering an all-level Indian Folk Dance class taught by teaching associate Nishita Laliwala.

REGISTER HERE!

What is Indian Folk Dance?

India is a land of many traditions and cultures. Diversity makes Indian culture unique. Indian folk and tribal dances are the product of different regions and subcultures where traditions evolved over the ages to celebrate the many festivals observed in India. Folk dances performed to express joy and reverence for each holiday and deity, as well as many other occasions, like the arrival of seasons, various Indian gods, the birth of a child, weddings, festivals, which are plenty. The folk dances can be elementary with minimum steps and lots of repetition, full of energy and vitality.  Some of these dances are performed separately by men or women, while others by both.  On most occasions, the dancers will sing themselves accompanied by instruments.  Eash folk dance has a specific outfit and rhythm.  Many of the costumes worn for these dances are colorful with extensive jewels and designs.  Indian fold dances are full of vitality and energy celebrating LIFE!  

Some of the folk dances we will explore at Bella Diva:

Bhangra

Bhangra is one of the most popular and energetic dances of Punjab. The origins of this impressive dance form remain speculative. It is believed that ‘Bhangra’ is a martial dance form, started by farmers to celebrate the harvest season. No celebration in the Punjab and surrounding areas is complete without a Bhangra performance. When typically performing, several dancers execute vigorous kicks, leaps, and bends of the body to the accompaniment of short songs called ‘Boliyan’ and, most significantly, to the beat of a ‘dhol’ (a double-headed drum). Struck with a heavy beat on one end and a light stick on the other, the dhol imbues bhangra music. It has a syncopated (accents on the weak beats) sound, with a swinging rhythmic character that generally remains the hallmark of any music that has come to bear the ‘bhangra’ name. Bhangra is a high energy dance style with lots of jumping, bouncing, squatting, and throwing movements.

Garba

This dance form originates in the state of Gujarat. Garba traditionally performed during the nine-day Hindu festival ‘Navaratri.’ The dance performance is around a lamp with circular and spiral patterns that are similar to other spiritual dances, like some from the Sufi culture. Garba’s circular patterns symbolize the view of time by the Hindu. Rings of dancers revolve in cycles, as time in Hinduism is cyclical. The word ‘Garba’ comes from the Sanskrit word for womb, and so implies gestation or pregnancy – life! The dancers thus honor Durga, the feminine form of divinity. It often incorporates “Dandiya,” wooden sticks used for a partner, and rhythmic purposes.

Ghoomar

This folk style is a traditional dance of Rajasthan. The dance is primarily performed by veiled women who wear flowing dresses called ‘Ghaghara’ and typically involve performers pirouetting while moving in and out of a full circle. According to the traditional rituals, a newly married bride is expected to dance the Ghoomar on being welcomed to her new marital home. The word “Ghoomna” describes the twirling movement of the dancers and is the basis of the name Ghoomar.

Lavani

Lavani is a music genre popular in the state of Maharashtra, India. Lavani combines traditional song and dance, which is mainly performed to the beats of the ‘Dholki,’ a percussion instrument. Lavani is distinguished for its powerful rhythm and has contributed substantially to the development of Marathi folk theatre. The ladies who perform Lavani wear a long sari length around 9 meters! They form a bun with their hair and wear heavy jewelry, including a necklace, earrings, Kamar Patta (a belt at the waist), and bangles. They usually put a large bindi of dark red color on their forehead.

5 Tips to Stay Healthy in 2020

This time of year, many people grab on to one of the most common new year’s resolutions there can be, losing weight. That is the reason why gyms fill up the first couple of months of the year, but eventually, attendance starts to decrease as people start losing their motivation.

For the best results, you should establish your new year’s resolutions or goals in a different way. Think of how you can keep yourself healthy and happy this year and forget about the number on the scale. Not only does this approach make it easier for you to stick to your goals, but it will also help you stay in good health throughout the year. Here are some ideas:

Define SMART Goals

The most important thing when defining goals is that they need to be realistic. Otherwise, they will be hard to sustain, and achieving the results you expect will be even harder. Instead of focusing on one huge goal, break it up into smaller goals that are easier to achieve —and less overwhelming. Be sure your goals are SMART, specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely.

Dial-in Your Nutrition

It’s not about eating less; it’s about eating better. Instead of thinking about taking things out of your diet, focus on adding more nutritional foods, like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, grains, etc. The more you fill yourself up with nutrient-dense food, the less likely you will be to crave unhealthy things.

Add an Enjoyable Way to Exercise

Have you identified a type of physical activity you love? That should be the one you resort to, rather than something you think might give you results. If you don’t enjoy it, you will eventually give up on it. So, whether you love running, jogging, weight lighting, rope jumping, or dancing, stick to what you love. And if you don’t have something you love yet, make it a goal to try different things until you find it.

Work on a Strategy to Stay on Track

Time is usually a restriction that can quickly derail your plans. Knowing this, you should define an approach that can help you get things done, regardless. You can work your goals into your life routine, it’s just a matter of making a plan and executing it to a T. Maybe you do better if you workout in the morning before the day gets too hectic, or maybe it’s best for you to do it after work when you’re on your way home. Take all that into account when defining a strategy.

Don’t Give Up When You Fail

Don’t worry if plan A fails, and you end up falling off the wagon for a while. Think about how you’re going to get back on track as quickly as possible. If you had a not-so-great meal, get back to the plan on the next meal. It doesn’t matter if you derail for a bit, as long as you get back into it, promptly.

What are your health goals for 2020?

Kick Off the Year with Goals in Mind

This time of year is when we all start looking back on what we’ve achieved and begin to think of what direction to take for the year to come.

One of the most important things you can do to kick off the year right is to define some dance goals. That will help you stay on track throughout the year, so you can get the results you’re expecting by the end of it.

Change Negative Thoughts for Constructive Ones

It’s effortless to allow yourself to get into a negative mindset when things aren’t going as planned. You might be thinking, “Why can’t I ever get this correct?” But instead, ask yourself what you can do to turn your weaknesses into strengths. If you find yourself saying, “I don’t like this class because I don’t know anyone here,” allow yourself to get to know new people. It’s all about perspective.

Compliment Your Dance Mates More

Complimenting others is an act of selflessness and love, which not only has a positive impact on whoever you compliment; it also positively affects you. When you notice something you appreciate about your dance mates, don’t be afraid to say it. An honest “good job!” or “that was so inspiring!” can motivate and make a difference on that person’s day and yours too, and it also has the power to build bonds.

Work Out a Dance Budget

Dance requires an investment. It’s not just the classes; it’s the costumes, money for gas, and anything else you might need. The start of the year is an excellent time to think about those elements that are typically not considered. Put together a budget that allows you to do what you love all year long.

Prioritize Your Health

Your love for dance should never go above your health. Make sure to focus on your emotional, mental, and physical health first. Also, don’t allow yourself to dance through physical pain. If something is hurting, you should stop and get yourself checked out before it turns in to a complicated injury.

Make Friends with Someone New

If you’ve been dancing at the same studio for years, you are still likely to have new dance mates when the year kicks off, and throughout the year too. It is not uncommon to feel very comfortable around those who you already know and not want to interact with new people as much; however, meeting new people is an opportunity for growth. It challenges you as a person, but it also gives you a chance to discover new friends that can last a lifetime.

What You Need to Know About Backbends

Backbends are probably one of the most iconic belly dance moves. They look beautiful and full of grace and poise, and they also look effortless when done right. Performing backbends should be carefully handled, and there are many things to consider. Here are some of the things you need to know before you start the learning process.

Should You Be Doing Back Bends?

Backbends can put a lot of stress on your back, which is why it is not a move that everyone should do. If you suffer from a bad back condition or had a spine procedure done at some point, you should stay away from backbends. Also, if you suffer from ankle, knee, or foot problems or if you’re currently pregnant, you should opt-out of doing backbends for your safety.

If you are a generally healthy person and there are no physical impediments that keep you from doing backbends, you should be sure that you can and are willing to put in the work that is required to prepare your body correctly for this movement.

Condition Your Body First

A healthy back is not all that is needed to do a backbend safely. Before attempting one, make sure to work on a series of other things to prep your body for it and prevent injury. A backbend requires you to have muscular thighs, abs, pectoral and back muscles, glutes, flexible hip flexors, and a durable pelvic floor. The combination of all of the above will ensure your back is adequately supported to perform this movement. There are a series of different exercises to work on each element on that list. Ask your dance instructor to guide you through the process.

Back Bend Supplies You’ll Need

To protect your knees, you will need some supplies. Some of the recommended ones are kneepads, padding for the top of your feet, a yoga mat or a towel, or leg warmers. The choice is up to you. Just make sure you are comfortable and experience no pain in your knees when practicing.

Backs bends are one of the most advanced movements in belly dance class. Be careful, patient, and persevere, so one day you can be a backbend pro.

Belly Dancing Injury-Free

There will always be risks associated with all forms of exercise. How likely those risks are to manifest will depend a lot on how you approach the activity and whether or not you follow the recommendations of the experts, like proper form, etc.

There are, of course, risks of injury associated with belly dance, but there are ways to prevent them from happening.

First Thing to Consider

If something you’re doing is hurting, stop. There are many reasons why it may be hurting. For example, you may need to warm up more and stretch before trying out that move, or you may need to perfect your technique first, with the help of your teacher. It could also be due to your body’s natural anatomy or due to a past injury that may be bothering you. To avoid a severe injury, stop as soon as it starts bothering you.

Keep a Good Posture

Bad posture is not just a concern because of how it can affect you aesthetically. It can also lead to injury. No rounded shoulders, or slumped stances, or buttocks pushed to the back —which can exaggerate the lower back arch. When you’re dancing, your basic posture should be as follows:

• Feet shoulder-width apart and toes pointed forward —unless you have a medical reason not to
• Knees in a neutral position. Avoid keeping your knees bent for too long
• Rotate your pelvis forward so that it aligns with the rest of your body, and the pubic bone points directly down to the ground
• Chest out, as if you had a string going through the center of your body, lifting you straight up
• Shoulders back

Be Careful with Your Neck

Hair tosses look fun and flirty in belly dance choreographies; however, they are to be performed with care as they can compromise the neck. Before you try this move, you should build the strength in your neck that is needed to support a hair toss. Some of the most common exercises include doing head circles, moving your head forward and back, side to side (trying to touch your shoulders with your ears), and sliding your head left and right. Always with your back straight!

Avoid Floor Work if You Have Knee Problems

Although floorwork looks cool, it’s not something everyone should do. If you have knee problems, you should stay away from it so that they do not get worse. For example, knee walks can cause you to hit your knees against the floor. Wearing knee pads is recommended to cushion your knees.

Say Yes to Shoes

Belly dance is performed mainly barefoot. However, it can also be done in sandals, and it will still look great. Especially when dancing outdoors or on unfamiliar stages. Dancing barefoot can make you vulnerable to injuries caused by stepping on beads or even bits of broken glass, wooden floors that release splinters on your feet, or stone or concrete surfaces, which could burn your feet. Floors may also be contaminated with viruses or fungus, leading to a wide variety of foot health conditions.

On your next dance class, talk to your dance instructor to learn more about what you can do to prevent belly dance injuries.

Dance Classes in Denver That Need to be on Your List of New Year Resolutions

Can you believe this year is about to end? It is a time for reflection on this past year, and how to make the best of the next 12 months that are about to begin.

One of the best things we can all include on our list of resolutions is to try something new. Why not, right? These experiences bring us out of our comfort zone, help us expand our horizons, and grow as individuals. Plus, this practice teaches us so much about our character.

This new year, we dare you to try a style of dance you have never tried before! You will surely love the experience! There are so many excellent world dance classes in Denver, but we have picked three styles that you will undoubtedly enjoy.

Samba

Samba is pure fun! Straight from the streets of Brazil, this type of dance is as full of energy as it is full of flavor. There is no need to travel down to South America to experience the beauty of Samba. You can do it right here in Colorado. It is instantly recognizable with all the fantastic costumes and beautiful, energetic moves.

Belly Dance

This middle-eastern dance is rich in cultural background. You’ll learn to move your hips like you never thought you could. Belly dance can be very sensual but full of elegance and poise at the same time. This dance will do much more than teach you new steps; it will challenge your brain with intricate choreography, help you improve your posture, and even alleviate the symptoms of PMS.

Bollywood

All the color, the glitz, and the glam of Bollywood condensed into one style of dance. Bollywood combines a variety of elements from different rhythms, such as hip hop, funk, jazz, and more. This type of dance will put you in a good mood right away.

Dance your way into an unforgettable new year!

How to Dance Confidently and Never Feel Like the “Weakest Link”

When you’re always in front of the mirror, in the company of a bunch of other talented friends and dancers, it can be easy to let your insecurities drown you in negative thoughts and stress. However, the fact that others around you are good doesn’t take anything away from you.

Everyone has different strengths and different ways to process and learn things. Even if you feel like you’re having a harder time learning the choreography, that doesn’t make you the “weakest link.” It just means you’re different, and it’s ok to be you.

Putting all that stress on your shoulders, thinking you’re the weakest one in the group, will not only kill the fun of dance, it can also negatively affect your dancing. Here are some tips to help free yourself from that idea.

Never Stop Believing in Your Abilities

The most important person you should believe in is yourself. Feeling confident will allow you to feel more free in your skin and on the dance floor, which is essential for you to continue to polish your abilities and continue to grow.

Remember Mistakes Will Happen

Making mistakes is ok. You’re human; it is impossible not to, so don’t be hard on yourself. Just take it as an opportunity for growth.

Find Your Areas of Improvement and Work on Them

Those little things that make you insecure are areas that can be polished to help you gain confidence. Reflect on the things that make you feel that way and plan on how you can work on them to turn them into strengths.

Celebrate Your Wins

Everyone has different areas where they excel. Your strengths might be different than the next person, but that’s not a bad thing. It’s what makes dance classes diverse and fun. ???? Celebrate the things you’re good at but also celebrate every achievement, no matter how big or small you think it might be. Every little step forward is worth a little dance party. 🙂

Remember Why You Started and Keep at It

There might be moments when you’re tired or stressed, and you’ll want to give up, but don’t. First, think of what motivated you to start dancing. Bringing back that memory will prompt you to keep going to achieve your original goal.

You bring something unique to the table. Don’t let anything convince you otherwise.

Belly Dance Cymbals: Choosing Them and Caring for Them

Finger cymbals, also known as zills, are one of the props that represent belly dance the most. They are unique and very traditional to this type of dance. They are not mandatory when performing, but they do add an extraordinary touch to any performance.
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Selecting Your Cymbals

When it comes to purchasing zills, there are some things you should consider. When you first start using finger cymbals, they will feel awkward on your hands, but don’t freak out. It ‘s normal until you eventually get used to them. Be sure to pick a good quality pair that feels easy to handle, regardless of their size. Although a lighter set is the best option for you to build strength and coordination.
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The most important thing when choosing finger cymbals is that they sound nice.
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The tone will depend on the material they’re made from —usually, a metal like bronze or brass. However, it’s also a matter of preference, so don’t worry too much about it. You will likely end up with more than just one set of zills —like every other belly dance accessory—  since they’re affordable and can often be found on sale. If you have any questions about your dance cymbals, don’t be afraid to ask your dance instructor for help.

Proper Cymbal Care

Because of their material, you will eventually notice how your zills start to get dirty. It’s no big deal. They are easily cleaned with a soft cloth and a metal polish. Keeping them shiny or having them look a little vintage will depend on what you like the best, but at the end of the day, that will only affect their aesthetics. They should sound the same, regardless. Keep them all together in a little bag that is strictly for their storage to prevent damage.

Prepping Your Cymbals for Use

Not every set of cymbals comes with their elastic, so you might have to buy some. Choose one that is approximately 3/4 of an inch wide. The elastic will need to be measured to fit snugly around your finger and then sewed on. Then you’ll be ready to rock your cymbals on your next performance!