A couple of months ago, bellydance supporter and promoter Craig Nine in Tokyo e-mailed me about an interview for the launch of his newest bellydance website, bellydancer.jp. I met Craig just before leaving Tokyo. He's been in the entertainment business there for years and has taken bellydance on as the new hot thing to promote. He's a blessing for dancers in that he's doing a lot of the work for us. He has planned his own events and does not discriminate from studio to studio when deciding which events to attend. When I told him I'd be coming back to the U.S. he suggested an interview that could help show that bellydancers are women with professions, families, and bling, too. We originally spoke about a video interview but didn't have time before i left. The site went live this month and yours truly talks about dancing while pregnant. When Craig asked me to do the interview, I knew I needed some shots of my belly in costume. Thus, the green bananas shoot :)
Ironically, the site has some English pages, but not my interview. So I'll post what I said here. Or you can practice your Japanese at www.bellydancer.jp
1. It's been a few months how are things in the States?
Things here are nice. I don't mind being away from Tokyo in the summer months, it's much cooler here. Adjusting to a slower paced lifestyle was difficult for me. So I fill my time by going to dance classes and I began teaching a bellydance class here as well. Of course, it's nice to be around my family.
2. We'd all like to congratulate you on your pregnancy, how many
months are you currently?
I'm currently 32 weeks (out of 40)! I just found out that it's a boy!
3. Can you still shimmy (joking) but do you still practice, or
perform?
Yes, I still practice. I can also still belly roll which always gets a laugh. The shimmy is relaxing and is a nice massage for the lower back if done in correct posture. That was not something I anticipated! So yes, I still shimmy quite a bit. I have not performed since I've been back in the U.S. I'd love to, though.
4. I remember from talking to you, you really being conscious about
your health, do you have any advice for those dancers who are planning
to have a child in the near future?
My advice is to trust in your body. Dancing while pregnant has been the most moving and beautiful experience of my life. Bellydance has prepared my body very well for carrying and growing a baby. As always, listen to your body. Don't let other people tell you what you "need" to do (or avoid doing) when you're pregnant. You're the one living in your body so you're the expert on what feels right and what doesn't.
5. What are you missing from Tokyo the most?
My boyfriend! And my friends, students, and dance community. I miss performing and being in the studio. And okonomiyaki.
6. What would you like to say to your many friends & students who
can't wait to see you again?
I miss Tokyo much more than I expected! I can't wait to see the progress my students have made when I get back. I'm on Mixi, so I'd love to hear from you if you'd like to e-mail me. Nihongo mo daijoubuyo (I need the practice).