How To Love Your Belly.

How do you feel about your belly? In today's social climate, the belly is definitely a part of the body that is often judged and critiqued a lot. These days a slender belly is considered desirable by most. But it wasn't always like that.

Back in the middle ages, having a bigger belly was desirable and considered to be a symbol of wealth. And in the late 18th century, women in London were wearing belly pads in their dresses to give the appearance of a bigger belly.

But this really isn't about the opinions of others. This is about your relationship to your body. Personally, I have never had a flat belly. I'm a curvy woman and always have been. I also have a curvature in my lower spine which makes my belly appear bigger. Honestly, you'd think it wouldn't matter so much. But the amount of people who have commented on my belly over the years is more than you'd think. I understand how it feels to feel uncomfortable in your body. Over the years, through dance, a nourishing diet and Tantra I've cultivated a much healthier relationship with my body and at 45, I feel the best I've ever felt. Here are some of my tips to love your belly:

Love yourself from the inside out:

Your belly doesn't just process your food. It is your emotional body. Because of the sensitivity of the bacteria, your belly is considered the second brain. It contains your ''gut feeling ''. It contains your womb, perhaps carried children. Your belly has done more for you than anyone that would judge it's shape. It's your friend and ally! Never forget that.

Eat well:

This isn't about losing weight. It's about nourishing yourself and loving yourself from the inside out. How does your belly feel from the inside? Many years ago, when I ate and drank whatever I liked my belly was far less happy than it is now. I had bad habits. I loved booze and ate copious amounts of take away curry. Over the last couple of years I've been introduced to juicing by my wonderful partner and it has really changed the way I feel inside. My mind and my body feel fresher and my appetite has subsequently reduced. This has been a natural progression. I would NEVER starve myself for the opinions of others and neither should you. Experiment with pro biotics and freshly pressed juices to help support your digestion.

Belly Dance:

Celebrate your belly by dancing with it. Belly dance is the best way to cultivate a healthy relationship to your belly. When I dance, I love it so much I never think about my body shape. My attention is drawn to what my body can do instead. Along with this, you can think about strengthening your core through exercises if you choose. Help your body become strong so it can support you well.

Conscious Touch:

Use the Tantric practice of conscious touch to cultivate a wonderful relationship with your belly. Pick your favourite essential oil blend or lotion, warm it in your hands a little and begin to gently massage your belly in a circular motion. Always go clockwise on yourself (stroking up the right hand side and down the left side.) this is the direction of your digestion. Place any judgements you have about your belly aside and focus on what you feel underneath your fingertips. Now place your entire focus on the feeling of connection between your hands and belly. Notice the warmth and texture of your skin. Notice the rise and fall of your belly. Breathe deeply and slowly into every stroke. Make this a meditative practice. You'll probably begin to notice some lovely qualities about your belly.

Meditate:

Place your hands on your belly and just sit with it! Gently focus on the breath, the rise and fall of your belly. Notice what else you can feel. Notice if you can can connect with the good bacteria I your belly.

The bodywork I offer to women combines the wisdom of Tantra, Paganism and two decades of practice. Honouring the body is a powerful way to heal your relationship to it. It helps you to remember the sacredness of who you are. You can find all about my bodywork sessions here.

I also offer one to one and group belly dance classes. These can be held online or in person at the beautiful Goddess House in Glastonbury. My belly dance classes incorporate embodiment and sacred practice because from my experience, it's the most powerful way to dance. You can find out more about my belly dance classes here.

You can also book a free fifteen minute video consultation with me by filling out the form here.