These pictures were taken at 13 weeks, 21 weeks, in labor, and five months post partum. My hips are still a little squishier than they were before I got pregnant, but nobody’s complained so far, and I think the extra weight helps my shimmies!
Same costume, different body (Anonymous)
You look fantastic! It is so wonderful that you feel confident enough to show your body so soon after giving birth :)
The belly dancing is probably good…for getting your body back and mentally, for feeling good about yourself! Congratulations on your new baby and your confidence.
Yes bellydance originated as a fertility dance. Its movements help develop muscles necessary in childbirth, and it is the celebration of all things female. Originally the DeviDassi in India, danced exclusively in temples, as this was a holy dance, and the women who danced at home danced exclusively for other women…not other men!!! The dance prepared the muscles for childbirth, and the women taught the girls how to endure the labor. Then there was a shift from a matriarchal society to more of a patriarchal society and the men wanted the women to dance for THEM. ..but originally it was a secret and sacred dance passed from woman to woman.