Middle Eastern Dance Gets Her Moving

After a lifetime of seesaw dieting, I made a promise to myself when I reached 50. I announced to the world that I would not endure even one more miserable day of hunger, weakness or feelings of deprivation. I would let my body do what it would--and there would be no more weigh-ins, no more restrictions, no more diets.

Actually, with the pressure off, my weight more or less stabilized at an acceptable “chubby.” Of course I was always aware of the extra 10, 15 or 20 pounds, but now, in my 70s, I could happily deal with the extra baggage.

But the 70s bring more than maturity, acceptance and serenity. They also bring arthritis, osteoporosis, that morning stiffness, the creaky knees. My dislike of traditional forms of exercise was beginning to take its toll.

During my school years, I tried always to select dance classes to fulfill the required physical education courses. I did well and thoroughly enjoyed them. Dancing has been second nature to me since childhood. Now, in my “golden years,” I needed a little extra nudge to resume my beloved dancing.

I found my inspiration in the form of a talented young Palestinian playwright-actor-dancer whom I met two years ago. After watching his impressive performance in “Salam, Shalom” at a theater in Hollywood, I lingered in the theater to talk with him about his work and background. This conversation grew into a close friendship that changed my life and most certainly my health. He introduced me to his delicious, healthful foods, his Middle Eastern philosophy, his music and his lyrical dance style. He insisted that I dance with him. And so I gained an “adopted” son and a dancing partner. I was hooked.

The male version of Middle Eastern dance, as performed by Saleem, is not traditional belly dancing as we Americans know it. It does involve extensive hip, arm and body movement, but is not too strenuous for us senior citizens. It was easy and great fun to imitate his graceful movements. The music carries a strong beat and spirited ethnic melodies. One simply cannot be still once the music begins.

Once I learned the basics, I found enormous satisfaction dancing any time, alone at home, on into the night. It became an important daily ritual. No one tests me; I needn’t be too graceful or authentic. I merely have to begin to move, and the irresistible music does the rest. It’s made a huge difference. Now I get my necessary exercise and I love it.

Some days I dance only 15 minutes; other days, nearly an hour. Sometimes my senior friends come to dance with me. One thing is certain: I am slimmer, more limber and active, my mood is brighter, and I have a strong sense of well-being. Growing old or feeling old at this time has faded into the background. I’m having too much fun.

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Vital Statistics

Name: Corrine Sutila

Age: 75

Occupation: Retired homemaker

Old Weight: 140-145

New Weight: 125-130

Height: 5 feet, 1 1/2 inches

Time to Get There: About 1 1/2 years

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