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Charity Fundraiser for Life Dances On

Ramona — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 13:29:53 GMT

A portion of the purchase price of every copy of Dynamic Belly Dance by Ramona purchased from now until March 15, 2008 from www.DynamicBellyDance.com benefits Life Dances On (www.LifeDancesOn.org). LDO is a charitable organization supporting cancer patients and their spouses/partners with dance classes tailored to their needs. Dancing helps patients maintain a positive attitude and promotes social networking and physical flexibility. Enjoy reading this colorfully illustrated book and donate to a good cause by buying your autographed copy during this special promotion! ***************************************************************** About Life Dances On: Life Dances On is an Atlanta-based charitable organization which supports cancer patients and their spouses/partners with dance and social support. Patients and their partners receive free group dance classes along with others who are struggling with cancer. Dance movements are adapted so that participants can dance without discomfort (for example, some cancer patients need to keep their arms at waist level to avoid pain from breast incisions, so the instructor shows how to adapt standard social dance movements into comfortable variations). Studies show that loving support helps patients survive cancer. Please help us donate to this worthy cause by buying Dynamic Belly Dance at DynamicBellyDance.com, or send a donation directly to Life Dances On via their website(www.LifeDancesOn.org). In the news: Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing is the new bellydance book that is receiving international accolades! From a recent review: "...Great how-to book that reads easily for those belly dance students who are interested in new ideas on either developing choreographed or improvisational dances. This is the only belly dance book in print dedicated to educating readers on how to create both. Ramona's bold approach on a subject much needed in our dance community is very well written and the sections on presentation techniques and stage presence skills are from real-life examples and stories about creating dances and presenting them to audiences." -- Belly Dance, A Raqs Sharqi Magazine And as seen in these magazines and ezines: The Chronicles (U.S.), Belly Dance, A Raqs Sharqi Magazine (U.S.), GildedSerpent.com (U.S.A.), Bellydance News (U.K.), Taqasim (U.K.) The scoop: Books may be ordered via the Paypal link at www.DynamicBellyDance.com, or by mail order directly from American Bellydance Innovations (ABI, the publisher). The book is $40 + $5 shipping ($45 total), and Georgia residents add sales tax. Mail order info: send a $45 check (GA residents add sales tax) payable to ABI, P.O. Box 1083, Atlanta, GA 30301-1083 Books are mailed via USPS. Use the Contact Us page at www.DynamicBellyDance.com if you have any questions. Thanks for your support!

BD for Red Cross

Ramona — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 19:19:53 GMT

Help the American Red Cross this holiday season by buying a copy of the Dynamic Belly Dance book from www.DynamicBellyDance.com. A portion of the purchase price of every Dynamic Belly Dance book purchased from now until January 15 will go to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. In the news: Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing is the new bellydance book that is receiving international accolades! From a recent review: "...Great how-to book that reads easily for those belly dance students who are interested in new ideas on either developing choreographed or improvisational dances. This is the only belly dance book in print dedicated to educating readers on how to create both. Ramona's bold approach on a subject much needed in our dance community is very well written and the sections on presentation techniques and stage presence skills are from real-life examples and stories about creating dances and presenting them to audiences." -- Belly Dance, A Raqs Sharqi Magazine (U.S.A.) See a review just posted at: http://www.gildedserpent.com/art42/dinaramonabook.htm And as seen in these magazines and ezines: Belly Dance, A Raqs Sharqi Magazine (U.S.), GildedSerpent.com (U.S.A.), Bellydance News (U.K.), Taqasim (U.K.) About the Red Cross and water conservation: We appreciate the Red Cross’ recent response to the California wildfires and want to help them continue their work with responding to floods, wildfires, hurricanes and other disasters in the coming year. Many Americans are deeply concerned about the Level 4 drought in areas of the Southeastern US and look to the Red Cross for advice. For water conservation tips go to: http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_582_,00.html The scoop: Purchase "Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing" from www.DynamicBellyDance.com until January 15, 2008 to help the Red Cross. Books ordered from www.DynamicBellyDance.com are autographed by Ramona, the author. If you're giving Dynamic Belly Dance as a gift, please specify the name of the recipient so that the book will be personally inscribed (for example, "To Sally, with best wishes.") Books may be ordered via the Paypal link at www.DynamicBellyDance.com, or by mail order directly from American Bellydance Innovations (ABI, the publisher). Please use Paypal and order by Dec. 14 if you need the book to arrive in time for Christmas. The book is $40 + $5 shipping ($45 total), and Georgia residents add sales tax. Mail order info: send a $45 check (and sales tax for GA residents) payable to ABI, P.O. Box 1083, Atlanta, GA 30301-1083 The fine print: Offer applies to books purchased from www.DynamicBellyDance.com with Paypal, or by mail order with a check or money order sent to ABI. (Offer does not apply to books sold by other booksellers). Books are mailed via USPS, so allow plenty of time for delivery due to holiday mail volume. Use the Contact Us page at www.DynamicBellyDance.com if you have any questions. Thanks for your support!

Recommended: Belly Dance, A Raqs Sharqi Magazine

Ramona — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 19:08:14 GMT

I just subscribed to Belly Dance, A Raqs Sharqi Magazine, and I'm very impressed with it. Great full-color photos of many well-known dancers, easy to read articles, the inside scoop on some of the popular belly dance conventions (both in the US & overseas). I'd recommend this mag to other dancers. So nice to see such a high-quality print periodical. Their website is www.bellydancemag.com I also really appreciated their review of my new book, "Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing." They have a page of short, succinct reviews in the Fall/Winter 07 issue. I really enjoyed reading the reviews of the other new publications----so nice to know about the latest available works on the market.

Performance tips for birthday parties

Ramona — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 02:41:22 GMT

Creating a special dance in honor of a special occassion? Want to make a celebration extra-special for your special someone? Want to know where to find the bellydance version of the Happy Birthday song? Click this link to read my article on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/richpub/syltguides/fullview/R3SFUXINQ4FFGB/ref=cm_sylt_pdp_title_full_1 Lots more articles are at www.DynamicBellyDance.com on the Articles page. Enjoy!

Atlanta--Nov 10--Bellydance workshop: Create your own choreography!

Ramona — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 14:22:49 GMT

Nov. 10, Saturday 2-4 pm: Ramona teaches a dancemaking workshop, sponsored by Diana at Dance & Arts Showcase, Atlanta.Take the great moves you love & weave them together into your own unique choreos & improvisations! Details: www.companymezza.com, email diane.adams@turner.net. Please pre-register ($35) as space is limited. Ramona is the author of Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing. Read articles, excerpts and reviews at www.DynamicBellyDance.com

Keeping Costumes Clean and Beautiful

Ramona — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 13:12:09 GMT

by Ramona Article from www.DynamicBellyDance.com Dance costumes are a big investment whether they are store-bought, custom-made or handmade by you. Keeping your costume looking and smelling wonderful will enhance your confidence and stage presence. In particular, costumes embellished with beads or other decorations need to be handled with care to preserve their beauty. Precautions to prevent damage and prompt stain removal will give your costumes a long and beautiful life. Preventing damage Perspiration is acidic and will damage and stain fabrics. Using dress shields or promptly removing stains prevents acidic damage. It helps to use deodorants or anti-antiperspirants that dry clear; some products leave white residue that transfers unsightly debris to fabrics. Perfume and many hairsprays contain alcohol, which damages sequins and fades the color of some fabrics. A towel or other cover over your costume will prevent damage from spills when dressing for a show. Keeping costumes fresh and clean One of the best ways to keep your costumes clean is to ensure that your body is clean when you get ready to wear it. If you sweat during the day and then put on your costume, you immediately transfer dirt and odor onto the costume. You can prevent this by taking a shower or using wipes on your body just before putting on your costume. Use hypoallergenic wipes for sensitive skin. Some costumes are more sweat-proof than others. A thin cotton t-shirt or crop top worn under opaque, loose-fitting folkloric dresses will absorb perspiration, keeping acidic moisture away from the costume. Some long-sleeved folkloric costumes have cutouts in the armpit area, which prevents perspiration stains and odor on fabrics while allowing more freedom of movement for the arms. Dress shields are also a useful alternative for preventing fabric damage in the underarm area. Washing and dry cleaning Silks and some cotton fabrics are prone to fading when washed or dry-cleaned, losing their color vibrancy. If cleaning is necessary, test a fabric swatch or inconspicuous area of the garment. Dry cleaning is less dangerous to some fabrics than washing; however, dry cleaning results in loss of glued-on decorations, applies heat and fades silk. If washing a costume in the washing machine is unavoidable, you can put it inside a pillowcase and tie the opening in a knot, using the delicate cycle and cold water to avoid damaging sewn-on beads, coins and other embellishments. A stain remover stick is helpful for removing stains. Be sure all the stain is gone before putting the item in the dryer, since heat will set some stains, making them harder to remove later. Delicate fabrics can be laid out to air dry, which is safer for them than using a dryer. Storage If your costume is not washable or dry-cleanable (as is the case of many beaded costumes) let the costume air dry after a performance in order to allow perspiration to completely evaporate. This is also very important for shoes and wigs. Costumes should never be stored until completely dry, because wet storage will result in mold, which could completely ruin the costume. Be especially careful not to store wet shoes in plastic. Store your costume away from direct sunlight and bright lights to avoid fading; this is vital for preserving delicate silks and antique fabrics. Costumes with heavy beadwork or made of net or stretchy fabrics should not be stored on hangers, since they can permanently stretch. These costumes can be stored flat or rolled. Fasten hooks and eyes and close zippers when storing. In addition, avoid wood and plastic hangers, since they release acids, which cause fabric stains with long-term storage. Padded hangers are a safer choice. Taking care of your costumes will ensure that they look and smell lovely for many performances. Ramona is the author of Dynamic Belly Dance, the Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing. See free belly dance videos, read book excerpts and order an autographed copy at http://www.DynamicBellyDance.com

Free Bellydance events at Gwinnett & Atlanta public libraries

Ramona — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 16:24:28 GMT

Open to the public: Gwinnett Library: August 27, Monday 7 pm: Meet the author of Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing at the Five Forks Branch of the Gwinnett Public Library. Author Ramona will read a section from her book and give a mini dance lesson, demonstration, autographing. Dynamic Belly Dance available for sale at the event. Library website: http://www.gwinnettpl.org/ Author website: http://www.DynamicBellyDance.com Atlanta Library: August 30, Thursday 1 pm: Meet the author of Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing at the Margaret Mitchell Branch (across from Peachtree Center MARTA station) of the Fulton County Public Library. Author Ramona will read a section from her book and give a mini dance lesson, demonstration, autographing. Dynamic Belly Dance available for sale at the event. Directions, details: http://www.socialweb.net/Events/62403.lasso Library website: www.afplweb.com Author website: http://www.DynamicBellyDance.com

Freebies for your newsletter, email, blog or ezine

Ramona — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 19:30:40 GMT

Read & enjoy! Free articles by Ramona at www.DynamicBellyDance.com, click on Articles on sidebar. These articles may be emailed to friends and used in newsletters, blogs or ezines. Excerpts and reviews of Ramona’s illustrated new book, Dynamic Belly Dance, The Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing, are also on the website. Free articles: Choreograph a Fan Dance: 11 Creative Ideas Overcoming Stage Fright – Creating Confidence During Performances Mysteries of Muscle Memory Selecting Music based on Audience Preferences Dance Meditation – Easy, Energizing, and Relaxing The Magic of Dancing is Love Desktop Rhythm – Dance, Rhythm and Variety for Daytime Energy Easy Teaching, Learning & Chatting Flexible Strength The Fountain of Youth

The Magic of Dancing is Love

Ramona — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 11:57:48 GMT

Dancing is an ancient tradition which has been used for thousands of years to celebrate happy events, and is rooted in expressing love. From antiquity up to the present, dancing has been a traditional part of wedding celebrations and celebrations of birth in many cultures. Both weddings and childbirth express the power of love - romantic love and love for a new baby. In particular, belly dancing has ancient roots in weddings, fertility, and birth celebrations; love songs often accompany these dances. Some cultures still have a loving tradition of female friends dancing around a laboring woman to support her efforts during the birthing process. Not surprisingly, modern evidence shows that having supportive women friends present during labor helps a woman during the birthing process. Love shows in a smile, in dance movements, lyrics, and in holding the arms out in a loving gesture—all part of dancing. Smiling is especially important in dancing; dance instructors often remind students to smile during performances. A smile communicates joy and love. “Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing,” said Mother Teresa. Reaching out to help others Charitable giving is an act of love, and many dance events benefit charities. Dancers often organize benefits and perform at fundraiser's for charities that support research and cures for diseases. Dancers also sponsor charitable performances for senior citizens in nursing homes and non-profit events that benefit schools and other organizations. I organize an annual charity performance at a nursing home. The elderly in nursing homes deeply appreciate young people coming to perform for them, and our group brings smiles to many faces. I was touched when the director of the nursing home told me that the residents look forward to my group’s performances so much that they post our pictures where they can see them all year long. Dancing through a crisis One of my friends organized a support group for cancer patients and their spouses. She was inspired to do this by her own experience with cancer, believing that dance and social networking help in coping with the stress of a cancer diagnosis. This group meets regularly for ballroom dance classes, salsa classes, and other partner dances. Dancing helps these couples express their love and support for each other. Moreover, caring and support can make a tangible difference in health outcomes. Love creates the biology of happiness and positive energy Research shows that women facing cancer who are members of caring support groups have better outcomes than those who are not. Over and over again, research shows that knowing that someone loves you helps survival during life’s greatest challenges. Dance classes are a great way to meet new friends; many close friendships are forged through dancing. Furthermore, scientific studies show that by merely observing acts of loving kindness, the observer’s immunity is enhanced. Showing love towards animals directs positive energy to them too. In an Ohio State University study, rabbits receiving identical high-cholesterol diets had different health outcomes depending on whether or not their handlers regularly hugged and petted them. Partner dances such as ballroom and salsa include a loving touch, since hand-holding is often a part of these dances. This is a beautiful way to connect with your mate. Other studies have shown that having a pet to love is good for human health. Some dancers involve their pets in their performances; a professional husband-wife dance team includes their little dog in their Oriental-inspired theater performances. Express your love today A dance student told me that she started taking belly dancing classes for her husband’s benefit, as a loving gift for him. Some belly dance students create dances for their spouse in celebration of a special anniversary. Show your love for someone special today! Here are a few ideas: Think love: send good wishes to all your friends and family, especially those who are sick or coping with stress or sorrow. Talk love: tell your loved ones that you are thinking of them. Read love: look for the theme of love in everyday stories in the news. Charity concerts, stories about pets, and wedding announcements are love stories. Sing love: sing a love song to yourself in the shower. Dance love: dance in the privacy of your home, dedicating your performance to a loved one. Give your loved ones a smile and a hug today! Ramona is the author of Dynamic Belly Dance, the Joyful Journey of Dancemaking and Performing. See free belly dance videos, read book excerpts and order an autographed copy at http://www.DynamicBellyDance.com

Premiere Party for the Dynamic Belly Dance book

Ramona — Tue, 08 May 2007 02:18:55 GMT

Thank you to everyone who participated in my Dance-o-Graphing (belly dance party and book release celebration) at Messina's last night. The dancers were all so beautiful, with a great variety of performances. It was wonderful to have such an appreciative audience filled with so many friends and families. Performers included Satinka, Aspyn, Oracle & the Delphi Dancers, Sadira Mahin, Leah and me (that's me in the orange costume). For fun, I wanted to do something new & different, and I enjoyed dancing in my black leather Goth costume & 7-inch heels. It was a great feeling to do something new & on the edge. The dance was hot, in more ways than one--leather costumes are hot, especially in this climate! I also had great fun dancing in my favorite orange Madame Abla costume at the end of the show. It was wonderful to share my book with so many dance enthusiasts, and to hear from dancers about how much they've been enjoying reading the book and getting new inspirations for dancemaking. Everyone commented on the beautiful photos in the book. Dancers have been telling me that my book is helping them improve their technique, which is so nice to hear. Info about the book is at www.DynamicBellyDance.com

Bellydancing for the American Cancer Society

Ramona — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 13:30:58 GMT

The American Cancer Society is a charity that is especially meaningful to me. It's been almost a year since I lost my father to colon cancer. Though colon cancer screening isn't pleasant, it saves lives and improves our quality of life. On Saturday, Apr 28, Alexandria is sponsoring a belly dance show benefitting the American Cancer Society (Beckley, WV). I donated an autographed copy of Dynamic Belly Dance to be auctioned at the fundraiser to support this worthy cause. Many belly dancers and our families have struggled with cancer, so this is a charity which is near and dear to many of our hearts. Info about how the book is benefitting charitable causes is on the Dance-O-Graphing page of www.DynamicBellyDance.com