Molly M. says, "Excellent coach for a self-conscious newbie! I've been so grateful to be taking belly dancing lessons from Shyama for the majority of this year. It began as an activity that my future mother-in-law and I could do together for fun and a way for me to interact with Shyama even though we were no longer at the same workplace, but it turned into so much more. The first time I tried belly dancing, I could barely do a hip slide. Now I am putting together sequences of moves in dance routines. Shyama is extremely patient, always letting me try steps over and over until I feel comfortable. She always has a pleasant demeanor and has great ways of describing moves, especially if I'm not getting it and a more creative explanation has to be used. Belly dancing is difficult and can be hard for someone, especially if they are not comfortable with their body. Shyama makes me feel at ease and more comfortable expressing myself with my body, which is a beautiful thing! Also, she is an incredible dancer herself but very humble. She also invites her students to belly dancing events, which is very inclusive of her, recognizing that all who are interested in the art of belly dance have something to contribute to the community's belly dancing culture." Read more