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Expert: - 3/9/2010


Question
hi Gia,
i am trying to learn how to bellydance but i have trouble in locating and pushing in my upper abs for the roll move. can you help me with that?
also, i'm also having a little bit of trouble with the choochoo shimmy and i would want general tips in how to bellydance with fluidity.
thanks
p.s awesome page

Answer

Gia and her Lower Ab C
Hi Donatella!
The upper abs you're looking for are at the "V" in your rib cage!
Use your hands to try to find the bottom of your ribs and trace a line up to the center were they form the upside down "V".
If you LIFT your rib cage (not with your hands! LOL!) you may be able to see it and feel it more easily...if you laugh, cough or pant, you should see it move a little...this is the area around the diaphragm where you'll need to contract the muscle.
I suggest laying on your back...you can prop yourself up with your arms or with pillows...put a slightly heavy, large book (and...I kid you not...I've done this with my cats as well!)on your abs with one end right over that diaphragm area. GENTLY...work to push the top of the book up, while keeping the other end neutral.  Then try to raise just the bottom while keeping the top neutral or down!  You may only be able to move it a TEENY bit at first...but keep doing it a few times a week and you'll build up the strength to 'push' and contract that area with greater ease!

The Choo-choo shimmy is a bit easier!
Start with parallel feet, knees SOFT, and tailbone down.
Rise up onto the balls of your feet...you don't have to be HIGH up on the balls of your feet...but you do need your heels lifted.
You will SHUFFLE...not STOMP...but SHUFFLE your feet forward and your hips will naturally follow the back-and-forth motion of your knees!
Good luck and let me know how you make out!
Gia
www.IDreamOfGia.com
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    Commentshe really explained it very well and she is very nice also


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Gia al Qamar

Expertise

I am a fulltime, professional Belly Dance Performer & Instructor. I can answer questions about Middle Eastern dance. I can discuss topics such as technique and history, performing, music, props, costumes and more! I will not answer questions about the misconceptions about this dance of a sexual nature.

Experience

I am, literally, a life-long dancer, having studied dance in its many forms since the age of 3. My college degree was in theater arts from Rutgers University. I have studied with a myriad of well known belly dance master instructors (all listed on my website... www.IDreamOfGia.com )and I continue to study with teachers from around the world. I have extensive performance experience and teach group and private classes in Northern NJ and the NY Metro area.

Publications
"The Hip Circle" "Jareeda" "Bella Online"

Education/Credentials
I have studied with master teachers from all over the US and the Middle East, I have a degree in Theater Arts from Rutgers University and continue to study and increase my knowledge and ability through private sessions, workshops and master classes.

Awards and Honors
Voted NJ's Favorite Belly Dance Teacher by NJBellydanceing.org 2009 Oasis Honors "Cleopatra" Division 2008 Performing Arts Awards (various) Mustang Medalion (NJ)

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