Three Ravens Henna

So, I wanted to share a little bit about my other passion, belly dance.

Only a few weeks ago I officially passed my one year dance-iversary. The decision to take up this new art form was rooted in my love of dancing, my need for some physical activity, and the gentle encouragement of friends (who felt my natural rhythm and movement would lend itself easily to this style of dance).  Out of this decision to explore the world of tribal fusion belly dance, I have found new friendships, new ways of relating to my body, new outlets for my creative spirit, and ,most importantly, I have found something that enriches my spirit.

My soul-body feels a primal, neolithic urge to dance.  When the pounding of drums and the swaying of hips becomes a conversation in motion and sound, I feel connected to something greater than myself, something ancient. I do not mean it lightly when I say that dance enriches my spirit, because some of my most spiritual moments have been while I was dancing: my eyes shut to the world around me, my body ensnared by the beat, and my spirit transcending. Dancing is extremely personal for me, a devotional experience.

In the past year I have seen my body transformed by the push and pull of muscles I barely knew I had. I have felt the accomplishment of figuring out new ways of moving within my own skin, and I have come to a better understanding and appreciation of my own physicality. The “me” I have longed to see in the mirror is starting to stretch and yawn his way into being, and I am thrilled.

In January, I will perform publicly for the first time since I began my journey. I will be surrounded by friends and a supportive community of dancers, and I cannot wait to share with them what I have learned. I will be performing with my teacher and troupe director Deedee, my dear friend Alexandra, and my husband Eric, together we are Eclypse.  I am amazed by what we have been able to do together, and excited to see what the next year will bring.