Though it’s associated with sensuality and seduction today, paintings that date back to 16th century Baghdad suggest that belly dancing was designed to entertain the women of the royal household. Men weren’t allowed to watch these performances — even musicians were blindfolded during the show.

“Centuries ago, belly dance had ritualistic significance. Mothers would teach it to their daughters as it was a part of tradition,” reveals Aakriti Prasad, instructor and sales and marketing head, Veve Dance, “Among Africa’s Bedouin tribe, it was customary for belly dancers to form a ring around a woman in labour, and dance and chant through the birthing process.”