Belly dance, also known as dance oriental or raqs sharqi, is thousands of years old and rich in tradition. While its origins are unclear, it is believed to have once been a dance women performed to strengthen the body for pregnancy, labor, and delivery. In ancient Arabia and other parts of the middle east, this dance was performed by women for women. Due to its poor introduction to the West, it is a common misconception that this dance was designed for the entertainment of men. However, depending on the culture, close family members often danced for one another at family gatherings. Even so, the belly was rarely shown. Raqs Sharqi is a proud, ancient, and joyful art form.

Belly dance is an ever evolving dance. There are many different styles of belly dance including but not limited to Egyptian, Turkish, and Gypsy Tribal. The West, especially America, even has its forms of the dance. For example, balancing a sword during dance, Isis wings, and snake-like movements are all uniquely American. Even the modern belly dance costume of an elaborate bra, bare belly, and skirt is an influence of the West. All of these styles have influenced belly dance and most dancers use a combination of several different forms of the dance today.