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Hayal I began belly dancing in 2002, although my dance training began long before that. I started with jazz and ballet classes in 1996, and I was part of a university dance team from 1998-2002. Once I began belly dancing, though, I fell in love with the earthy, sensual movements and with the cultural history of that form of dance. In the last three years, I have moved from simply taking classes to training with professionals to performing with a professional troupe, Farhannah Dancers. I also dance professionally at Middle Eastern restaurants and other performance venues (festivals, weddings, etc.). When I’m not dancing, I’m working on my PhD in Social Psychology. I also love movies, other forms of exercise (tennis, yoga, and hip-hop), and playing with my dog, Maverick. Although belly dancing isn’t the only important part of my life, it is one of the most fulfilling parts in many ways. I experience dance as a form of meditation, a way to get away from the stressful, fast-paced life I lead. As beautiful as belly dancing is to watch, I have found that the benefits for the dancer herself are even more amazing!
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