Bellies for Breasts
Tuesday, 23 March 2004
Presenter: Tod Johnston
Bellies for Breasts started in 2001 after one of the girls, Kym, got breast cancer. It was the inspiration to give something back to the community.
Alma and Rose were guests of Tod Johnston in the studio, he didn't take much convincing to join them in wearing a traditional oriental style belly-dancing costume.
The interview
Hundreds of women participate in belly dancing classes every year. Apart from the fun aspect, it is used by some women as a form of healing their breast cancer.
Alma Sarhan says it helps improve the range of motion and flexibility in the affected arm, and helps reduce the risk of lymphedema - the swelling that can occur when lymph nodes are removed from the armpit.
Standing up
Tod learns that belly dancing is all about the hips and bellies.
The first move they showed Tod was the hip-drop. You lift your hip and then let it drop.
The shimmy is like a fast shake.
Ululation, Snake Arms and the Figure of Eight were also demonstrated online.
Tah dah!
Psychologically, belly dancing can help build self esteem by helping you to regain your sense of femininity.
(and says Tod - you can't help laughing as you do it - and that's got to be good for you!)
