I recently saw this very interesting discussion on a bellydance group that I’m part of:

Quick question from a beginner . . . After bellydancing I often get that “in love” feeling. I don’t know why because the feeling is not directed at anyone. It’s an energy that is coming from within me . . . a lot of nerves & elation at the same time. Does anyone know anything about this? Thanks!

😯 What?!?!?!?! Yes, this is a real thing!

 
Here are some of the responses to help explain:

“When you do an activity you enjoy, your body produces and release happy hormones, the same hormones you get when you’re in love with a person. I’m sure someone on here can provide the scientific terminology.”

Psst, they’re called Endorphins, yay!

“This is part of what belly dance can do for you, whether you just dabble… perpetual student, amateur, hobbyist, or aspire beyond as a teacher or professional performer. As a teacher, I try my best to encourage my students to attend class regardless of how they feel (unless they are actually sick), because I personally know the massive lift that an hour-ish of working on the dance can give.”

YESSSSS!!! This is so true and I totally agree with this person!

“As a teacher, I am obliged to attend each and every class…regardless of how I feel. Let me tell you, there have been times that I could barely drag myself to class (long, hard, very stressful days), but I did because I was obligated to show up to teach. Once I start with the opening warm-up routine everything else just melts away. By the time I wrap up the class with cool-down stretches I am usually “over the moon” with positive energies. And my students feel the same way.”

I can definitely relate to this one, it is absolutely true!

So, in case you were thinking about trying a belly dance class but weren’t too sure about what’s in it for you, now you know! Happy hormones and feeling over the moon, not to mention laughter, moving and stretching your body, exercising your brain…

Sounds great to me!