BELLY DANCE AND DISCOVERIES: WOMEN´S PERCEPTIONS ABOUT THE CHANGES IN THEMSELVES AFTER PRACTICE

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the perception of women practitioners of belly dance on the changes arising in themselves after practice this physical/ artistic activity. Material and Methods: This study is characterized as a descriptive qualitative research. The sample consisted of 11 belly dance practitioners aged 18 to 40 years in two academies that offer this modality at Joao Pessoa in the state of Paraíba. A questionnaire was used to obtain the socio economic characteristics of the sample as age, income, practice time in belly dance, marital status and occupation. Then the participants answered a semi-structured interview designed for this study. For the data analysis, the interviews were transcribed and then the contents of the responses were analyzed according to content analysis. Results:The data collected in the interview pointed to the presence of positive perceptions of belly dancing and the benefits of this practice relating to: self-esteem, self-knowledge, self-care, knowledge in dance, sensuality/ sexuality, menstruation, wellness, physical changes, socialization / relationships and health. Conclusion: The perception of women practicing belly dancing to the effects of this body practice is a set of elements that benefit from a holistic perspective, consolidating itself as well as physical/ artistic activity of great relevance to the bio-psychological aspects female social. DESCRIPTOR Dancing. Motor Activity., Women