The Body Files Blog-Adventures in Bellydance:

Growing up as the chubby kid was not fun. Not only did I get teased in school, I was also raised to hide my tummy. I was even given shaping underwear at a young age. That’s how it was back in the 80’s. Women who were larger bodied tucked in their tummy with uncomfortable underwear. Their clothes were baggy as a way to “compliment” their size. And there was no “cool” clothes in plus size. Either you wore grandma looking clothes or you dressed like a man. 
From the moment I met Accalia I fell in love with the “Tribal fusion” type of Bellydance. I sensed her loving personality and knew that I was in good hands. Without hesitation, I signed up for her Beginner and Choreography classes! I thought it was something I was going to teach in my dance fitness class....Little did I know it was going to be part of my journey to love myself. 
A few of my moments during these past 12 weeks:
🙈Mirrors!!!! This class room has mirrors. It wasn’t that bad... until I decided to practice in my bra. All the parts that I was raised to hide are now out for everyone including myself to see and stare at everyday.
After a few weeks I realized that It was in my best interest to practice without a shirt. (Not mandatory, but it helps when practicing)
Not to mention giving up my compression tights for more comfortable stretchy pants.... letting it all hang out. 
🙌 One class the teacher said “ok partner up”. I was so nervous! It was school all over again! Who is going to dance with the fat one? One of the students came running up to me across the room... I’d love to dance with you! On the inside I was crying with joy! 😭 Not only did we totally nail the move we were practicing together,... but I made a new friend!
She is not the only beautiful human being I met during these past 12 weeks..... what an amazing supportive environment the class turned out to be! I have learned that the Bellydance community is accepting and loving.
The lesson for me in this...
-Don’t ever let your fears or insecurities hold you back from doing something you have always wanted to do! 
-Instead of viewing the parts of your body you don’t like as flaws.... feed your body Love! Learn to love those parts. Send those parts positive energy instead of negative energy. Your body deserves it!
Photo credit: Accalia Bellydance