ESSENCE OF BELLYDANCE™ Teacher Spotlight Brenda
"Belly dance gave me a powerful, feminine feeling. The fact that it kept me in shape was a bonus."
Interview from March 30th 2026.
Can you share a bit about your background?
Brenda (69): I am a fashion designer and professional seamstress. I create unique, one-of-a-kind clothing, lingerie, and jewelry. I am a certified ESSENCE OF BELLYDANCE teacher and fitness instructor in my active 55+ community.
How did you get in touch with the Bellydance and what does it give you?
My interest in belly dance began in 2007 when my friend invited me to her belly dance halfa (party). I was intrigued by the movements and began practicing via live classes as well as watching belly dance tutorials on YouTube. That’s when I discovered Coco’s Essence of Bellydance online classes. I found that belly dance gave me a powerful, feminine feeling, and connecting the movements to music was something that I really loved. The fact that it kept me in shape was a bonus.
You also run a lingerie boutique. How did you decide to make dance your career?
I closed my brick-and-mortar shop to move it online, and wanted to focus on a fun way to stay fit. As I was nearing retirement, I didn’t want to become sedentary. I am always trying new things, and I thought that teaching belly dance would eventually be a rewarding experience.
How did you start, and what were the important milestones/turning points in your career?
After starting the Essence of Bellydance program, the Teacher Training was offered. Taking the Teacher Training and getting my certification would open the door to sharing the beautiful art of belly dance with my community. If I love it so much, other women in my age group could benefit from it as I did. The turning point was when I approached the fitness director about teaching belly dance at the fitness center.
You focus on training women 50+ can you tell us more about your experience with this age group?
I love teaching belly dance to this age group because of the rewarding benefits to the body. The pelvic floor is strengthened, the body & mind are open to a whole new world. There is no age limit in belly dance, nor are there any height or weight restrictions.
You joined the Essence of Bellydance Teacher Training in 2021. Did you have doubts if it‘s the right thing to do?
No, I knew it was the right thing to do. The timing was right, and since the program was offered online and via Zoom, it was accessible.
How did the training change you?
The training gave me the confidence I needed to succeed. The critique I received pushed me to new heights and showed me that I had what it takes to become an inspiration to others, especially in my age group.
What was the best moment in your dance life so far?
We were asked to perform a 20-minute routine at the fitness expo in our community. That was when I truly realized it was recognized as being good for the body and that women over 55 years of age could see it for fun and fitness.
Is there something you regret?
My only regret is that I didn’t take belly dance classes sooner.
How does a day in your life look like?
I dance almost every day. I love spending time with my husband and our little dog Bella. I try to add some creativity to my daily life and always find time to give thanks for my health and well-being.
What 3 tips would you like to share with women who want to pursue a similar dream?
1. Don’t second-guess it, just do it.
2. Give it your all.
3. Believe in yourself. Do it for you first, then share with others.
What are the 3 books that shaped your life?
The Art of Letting Go by Nick Trenton
Good Morning, I love You by Shauna Shapiro
What is your vision for the future?
To live a happy, healthy life and to continue to be a creative soul. To enjoy time with family, friends, and community.
Thank you so much for the interview Brenda. You are an inspiration.
Do you love to dance and want to inspire other women? Then join our international community of excellent dance teachers and start teaching your own ESSENCE OF BELLYDANCE™ classes. You can do it!
