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Full-Text Articles in Leisure Studies
Healing Through Movement: The Benefits Of Belly Dance For Gendered Victimization, Angela Moe
Healing Through Movement: The Benefits Of Belly Dance For Gendered Victimization, Angela Moe
Angela M. Moe
Perceptions of “belly dance” are that it is degrading, exploitive, and incongruous to feminism. Curiously, however, the dance is incredibly popular in various parts of the world, including the United States, as a form of recreation and creative expression. This paper examines the apparent disconnect between public perception and practitioner standpoint. Findings indicate a strong holistic healing component, particularly in terms of gendered interpersonal victimization, where belly dance seems to hold potential for self-exploration and discovery. Grounded historically, culturally and empirically, these findings are discussed in terms of their application to social work practice as it relates to alternative therapies.
Beyond The Belly: An Appraisal Of Middle Eastern Dance (Aka Belly Dance) As Leisure, Angela M. Moe
Beyond The Belly: An Appraisal Of Middle Eastern Dance (Aka Belly Dance) As Leisure, Angela M. Moe
Angela M. Moe
Middle Eastern dance (aka belly dance) is an ancient and expressive form of movement, associated with feminine and community-based celebration and ritual. However, it is also thought of as erotic, seductive, and titillating. Despite stereotypes, belly dance appeals to contemporary women as leisure. This paper examines the intrigue with belly dance in the United States, specifically why women practice this dance form and what their involvement suggests about the gendered nature of leisure, and the need thereof, in women's lives. It also considers the possibility that belly dance may be a feminist form of leisure. Based on participant observation, journal …