Biography Of Zareena
What's in a Name?
Zareena is a name inspired by an Arabic word for "Golden", reflecting the ancient life-giving warmth of sun in the desert, warm drifting sands, and the color of sun-touched skin next to glimmering sequins.
A Soul Endeavor
Discovering Dance
I began the study of Bellydance at the age of 31, with a determined will after a traumatic experience in my life, it turned into an amazing life path that has been a passionate experience of expression and learning, including an electric desire to pass on this joy to others in teaching, living as an artist, and performing to cross-cultural audiences.
Education and Training
- B.A. Art History and Anthropology. 1993
Courses Leading in certification in:
- Intergrated/Deep Tissue Massage Therapy (2000)
- Paralegal (2003-2004)
Bellydance has required the use of skills I learned years ago in athletic training, and in ballet, jazz, and other international dance. In addition to continually taking Bellydance classes, I attend seminars with knowledgeable professionals from the U.S. and the world.
Approach to Dancing and Teaching
My approach to Bellydance, or more appropriately, Middle-Eastern Dance, is based primarily on utilizing the ancient movements as an empowerment tool for women, then as an educational tool to bring enhancement to entertainment at cultural venues. Stylistically I focus on the Egyptian Bellydance style that ranges from folkloric to contemporary choreography.
In watching and performing dance, I am continually aware of its healing and electrifying effects on all people. I use the knowledge of healing and energy from massage therapy in a sort of "channeling" manner to bring an especially healing force to performances. The synergy of the music and the natural joyfulness and power of this dance is a powerful instrument.
In instruction I think it is important to teach cultural information, history, and a strict emphasis on body awareness and proper exercise of the muscles. More in depth students learn to draw upon energy stored in the body and mind to exude energy and creativity.
I also have an intense research approach from cultural anthropology, thoroughly studying Middle Eastern/North African dance as a living cultural force with the rare property of being both ancient and organically-changing in our fast modern times.
Mission
There are many oppressive and destructive forces in our world today that threaten if not the very existence, at least the viability of human life. I believe that is one reason why more people are realizing the inherent value of culture and the value humanity. In these lie the blossoms of our past and the seeds of our future.
We are all art and instruments, or at least we all can appreciate the beauty and value that the arts lend to life. I believe that Bellydance is an especially empowering, strengthening, and beautiful force. Although it arose from what is now one of the most volatile and war-torn parts of the world, countless of thousands of people have embraced it, not allowing prejudice or fear to stop them.
Like many cultural treasures, this form of expression is today more than ever, a portal to another world and a door to understanding.
In every day of my life I work, write, and dance to promote understanding, defeat misogyny and misconceptions, and increase knowledge and beauty through movement and music.
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world."
Mohandas Gandhi
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