Often asked questions

Is belly dancing for me?

You bet! The beauty of belly dancing is that anyone can do it. It empowers women to celebrate their curves, get more in touch with their feminine/sensual side and have fun doing it.

Can I get a good workout belly dancing?

The best! You strengthen and tone your muscles, increase flexibility, get a great aerobic workout, burn calories and loose inches. A perfect addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Can I tighten my tummy after having babies?

Most definitely. The first 30 minutes of every class is an intense abdominal workout consisting of various exercises to strengthen and tone the abdominal region. Do this three times a week and you will absolutely see results!

I hear belly dancing is becoming very popular for women of the "baby boomer" generation. True or false?

Very true! Baby boomers are women between the ages of 40 and 60+ who have experienced many facets of life - marriage, children, health issues, divorce, menopause etc. They are now ready to express themselves in a new way but may be tired of the "gym" workout. Belly dancing helps them to rediscover their femininity & sensuality while toning and tightening the areas of the body that many women have concerns about.

Can belly dancing help relieve menopause symptoms?

It has been proven that exercise in general will help symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings etc. but belly dancing gives you more. Women improve their self esteem and develop a greater body awareness while learning to embrace this time of life with a positive attitude.

What do I wear to class?

No special attire is required, just wear something comfortable (leotards, tee shirts, jazz pants, sweat pants etc.) For your feet, I recommend a soft shoe such as a ballet slipper or jazz shoes. Socks or bare feet are fine. No sneakers or flip flops!

Most students eventually purchase a scarf that wraps around the hips adorned with coins or beads. This helps to enhance and accentuate hip shimmys.

How many classes will it take to really learn the art of belly dancing?

It varies depending on the individual. If you have some dance experience and a good sense of rhythm, it will obviously be faster than someone with less experience. Regardless, everyone can learn the dance. After 10 lessons everyone will know the basics.

Do men belly dance?

Yes they do. We do not have classes for men at this time but there are some studios in New York that do. Check the web site "Belly Dancing New York" for more information.

Do I need to make a reservation?

It is preferred. I like to know who is coming to class so I can greet new students and have a mat set up for your abdominal workout.

If you have additional questions please contact me

Belly Dance Parties
Celebrate any occasion with a "Belly Dance Party"
Christina's Boutique
  • Gift Certificates for classes $20
  • Gift Certificates for workshops $160
  • Coined and beaded hip scarfs $20/$25
  • Elegant shawls $20
  • Instructional Video "Belly Dancing for Boomers" $29.95
All items are available at:
The Tree of Life 102-06 Metropolitan Avenue/71st Ave entrance (lower level) Forest Hills, New York 11375 718-544-5997 or call Christina for information and order placement 718-575-0056
email cbelli17@aol.com
Belly Dancing Workshops
Next Beginners
June 22 - August 10
Tuesday evenings 6-7:30pm

June 24 - August 12
Thursday evenings 7:30-9 pm

8 week workshop for beginners
Ages 13yrs - 60yrs+

NEW Slinkydance Workshop
July 7 - August 11
6 week workshop (open to all levels)
Wednesday evenings 7:30-9:00pm
Ages 13yrs - 60yrs+

Next Intermediate
August 18 - October 6
8 week workshop (beginner workshop required)
Wednesday evenings 7:30-9:00pm
Ages 13yrs - 60yrs+

Advanced Workshop
June 22 - August 10
8 week workshop (intermediate workshop required)
Tuesday evenings 7:30-9:00pm
adults only

Sunday Slinkydance Workout
Open Class
All levels invited
12:00pm-1:30pm

Personal Training
Looking for a personal trainer?
Need more information?
Have questions or need additional information about classes or anything on the website?

Middle Eastern Dancer and Teacher
718-575-0056 | 917-584-1757