Hi Carla, yes you do have time to pull in the belly or release the pelvis. For example, a full shimmy speed pelvic circle would be 1,e,&,a. 4 quarter notes and 4 locations for the pelvic accent, side front, side back. It just takes time. I'd say the muscle contraction would be felt most at or below the belly button. Good luck!

Hi Carla, Yes, you will. It the most incredible thing about the body. We can build our strength. Keep up the great work

Hi Stella, I am SO glad you enjoyed this class. The woman who made my outfit is from Italy. Her name is Cinzia Baraldi. Here is her Etsy shop but it appears she is taking a break. https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaShalai

Hello Dear Rawda, What a pleasure to meet you and hear your story. I am so happy you have been able to connect back to dance. I owe so much of my dance journey to the Arab women and men who taught me. There is still a long way to go in society but it is a beautiful thing to see more women, and girls able to embrace their cultural heritage through dance. So much resect for the dancers who risked so much to dance and inspire us all.Keep up the great work!!

Hi Rawda, We have passed your request to Esraa. We hope to have her back in to film later this year.

So glad you tried it. With some practice ti will come easier and easier.

Please do! Would love to feature on our Friday Feature

Hi Carla, I remember learning so many things as a student dancer that contradicted each other. As I started watching old videos from the 40s and beyond I noticed that almost none of it was true. The founding members of this dance did many of the things that so called "experts" say not to do. So, its not a pass to do whatever you want but it is an invitation to get curious. DO a little digging into some research. Know the style you are working with and allow yourself the freedom to express and be an artists. Good luck!

Definitely!!

Yes. I love doing those types of stretches as well. Ill add a few more in the upcoming months.