I am an oriental dancer (belly dancer) and instructor from Calgary, Alberta. I have danced since the age of four, taking classes in ballet, tap, modern, jazz, African, ballroom, and oriental. I have also practiced yoga for the last ten years. I came to oriental dance due to chronic back pain and the after-effects of a car accident. I had been told that oriental dance would enhance my core stability and help with recovery (as well as provide a good, safe workout). Two great things resulted: I am now mostly pain-free and have found a dance form that I love and will be able to continue with for several decades. I believe that the oriental dance form is ideal for women of all ages and cultural backgrounds.

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