Shamira's Tips - Sensuous Coordinated Movement

Q: I bought The Sensuous Workout DVD back in May. I have never done anything like this before and my movements are jerky and stiff to say the least! I hope you don't mind, but I'm writing to ask if you have any tips and advice?

I turned 40 this year, my weight is perfect for my height and though I am not unfit, I am not very coordinated when it comes to dancing. I know it's going to take time and practice but I wonder if you have any advice on becoming more fluid and sensuous - well, any advice or tips you could pass on to me really.

A: Happy birthday!!

Here's what I would recommend: First of all, relax and breathe. When you practice, take note of how many times you are actually holding your breath without realizing it. Practice sections of the warmup and find one move that feels more fluid and sensuous to you - do that move over and over. Take note of how you feel when you do that move that you are comfortable with.

Choose another move and try to bring that feeling into it. Put on some sensuous music or use the soundtrack from the video without watching me and just do those moves with lots of repetition. The more you practice, the more fluid you'll get.

Finally - patience. You can't expect it overnight! Enjoy the trip and forget about any expectations you have for a destination. Let it be something you enjoy working on, rather than something you feel you have to "get to." One move at a time. Choose one. I have always found small circles to be the most sensuous move in all of bellydancing, but for you it might be something else. Go with your feeling.

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