Belly dancing for pregnant women

I was surfing the TV one late night and saw a special feature about belly dancing. What caught my attention was that a pregnant women was doing the belly dance. The instructor mentioned that it is healthy and safe for pregnant women. Belly dancing strengthens the core and upper legs, muscles that can be very helpful during late pregnancy and labor. The Obstretician also said that as long as it feels good and doesn't put a strain on the back it is good for the pregnant woman. Aside from its physical benefit, it also builds a woman's self-esteem by aging gracefully.

I also found out that belly dancing initially conjured up seductive moves done as a performance. I also thought that it later become part of a hedonistic evening aimed at men. But its origin stems out as an activity that women did for each other, to help with childbirth. Now that is something new!