Belly dance is a rich history within itself. To pass on this art form from one dancer to another, signifies that the dance will go on for years to come. From one woman to another, from one mother to her daughter, the dance is a celebration of true womanhood.

There are dancers who are fortunate to have been taught the dance early in life. Looking at the backgrounds of famous belly dancers, it is no surprise that most of them start at such young ages. Many were also fortunate to learn the dance from their mother.

Although Mother's Day has gone by, I want to recognize the wonderous beauty of mothers, especially those in belly dance. Indeed, there are wonderful dancers that are here today because their mother taught them.

Tonya and Atlantis are mother and daughter belly dancers. They have been in the belly dance community for years. Mother Tonya has two troupes, "of Veils and Incense" and "Essence of Veils". Atlantis is constantly busy dancing and acting, so it is a wonder how she has time for herself. They are known for the Belly Dancer of the Universe Competition; there is a competition each year. If you go to their website tonya-and-atlantis.com, you can view the photos for this year's competition. Tonya and Atlantis have a new CD called "Ecstasy in Bellydance Volume I".

Ansuya and Jenaeni are directors of the dance troupe Yaleil. Most of us know Ansuya through her performance and instruction DVDs. Ansuya learned to belly dance from her mother Jenaeni. The legendary Jeneani danced in Los Angeles in the sixties and seventies. Ansuya continues the legacy with her graceful moves, and Ansuya is known for her finger cymbals. You will be amazed when you see her perform with her cymbals, and her performance will inspire you to learn.

Jamila and Suhaila Salimpour, a dynamic mother and daughter duo, are legendary. Tribal belly dancers have Jamila to thank, for she is one of the mothers of Tribal. Creator of Bel Anat, Jamila taught her daughter the art of belly dancing. Jamila trained belly dancers in the sixties and seventies. Now continuing the legend, Suhaila teaches courses to aspiring belly dancers in California. Belly dancers take her courses, and for the most part, you must make sure to register in time. In turn, most of her students are now instructors of Suhaila's technique.

Suhaila's daughter Isabella Antoin is a third generation belly dancer. This beautiful, young girl performs with her mother. Jamila must be so proud!

As belly dancers, we have to look up to our instructors for guidance and support, as would a daughter to her mother. We learn methods of belly dance that have been passed on from one woman to another. Honor your instructor, your mother in dance.

Should you wish to dance with your mother, there are belly dance workshops for you and her. What a wonderful, unique way to spend time with your mother. Most important the time spent together is priceless.