Articles about Rafi'ah

When I met Rafi'ah, I had the image of a Transylvanian Countess. I had my first taste of her dance style of "liquid fire" a couple years ago at a workshop in the heart of the Rocky Mnts. We started the workshop on the floor focusing on deep undulations and her "philosophy" of taking our dance from the inside and allowing it out. To actually get that concept and add it to your dance is where Rafiah has had an impact on myself and others; engaging from deep within.

She uses the term Serpentine Yoga. It's the concept of using undulations and micro-movements, to release muscular tension throughout the entire body. By practicing it, it helps to give your dance a boneless quality...liquid!!! Personally, studying with Rafi'ah has improved my own comprehension of where my movements are based from, which helps, not only to execute each move, but also the filling in of each movement. She challenges each individual to dig into their bodies and strive to finish off those subtleties that make belly dancing so intriguing.

Rafi'ahs teaching techniques go beyond the movements. She has the ability to translate music virtually to perfection, in a sensual way, by molding to the music, feeling each phrase, combining the melodies and the sharpness of the percussion. She conveys the music deeply. Her ability to execute shape, dynamic hip isolations, and then finish with a look of ultimate lightness and liquidity makes for a visual treat.

concept and add it to your dance is where Rafiah has had an impact on myself and others; engaging from deep within.

She uses the term Serpentine Yoga. It's the concept of using undulations and micro-movements, to release muscular tension throughout the entire body. By practicing it, it helps to give your dance a boneless quality...liquid!!! Personally, studying with Rafi'ah has improved my own comprehension of where my movements are based from, which helps, not only to execute each move, but also the filling in of each movement. She challenges each individual to dig into their bodies and strive to finish off those subtleties that make belly dancing so intriguing.

Rafi'ahs teaching techniques go beyond the movements. She has the ability to translate music virtually to perfection, in a sensual way, by molding to the music, feeling each phrase, combining the melodies and the sharpness of the percussion. She conveys the music deeply. Her ability to execute shape, dynamic hip isolations, and then finish with a look of ultimate lightness and liquidity makes for a visual treat.

If you get the chance to study with her, I highly recommend the privledge.
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