HipMix.net

Who Are The 3 Sisters & How Can They Make A Belly Dancer's Belly Happy?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

The story of The Three Sisters from Native American Culture is the inspiration for our delicious Three Sisters Wraps. Learn about the food lore from American Indians and see how The Three Sisters will keep busy belly dancers and performers healthy.

Best Organic Food Choices for a Belly Dancer's Budget

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Organic foods, or not organic foods? That is a BIG question. With a tough economy, and a growing fear of toxins in our produce, what is a good choice in the produce section of the market? Do belly dancers need to break into their "belly dance costume piggy bank" in order to make healthy food choices? What's real and what's hype in the organic food industry? Read on as Hip Mix explores your best food choices.

Is Gluten Free the Way for Me?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

More and more bellydancers are tempted by fad diets that promise them amazing results. Every year it seems there's a new one or at least a new and improved version. Belly dancers need all the nutrition we can get to maintain our figures as well as get the most out of our perfomances. Hip Mix breaks it down for you.

Forget Bland or Boring, A Granola Recipe Your Way

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Give your granola some personality. Use our recipe to forge a HIP snack to jazz up your energy level. It's a simple and healthy snack every bellydancer should have at home or on the go.

Fun Fruit Kebabs with Zesty Dips

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Fruit: An essential part of any bellydancer's diet? Absolutely! Read on as The Hip Mix Team shares with you why bellydancers need to need to punch up the fruit servings and offers up some fun and easy ways to give them a refreshing spin.

My Return To Dance: Post Amputation

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

I am smiling and full of joy when I dance. Spiritually I am a much stronger person, and in my personal life I am much happier. I hope that if you ever see me perform that my strength and resilience will shine through, and that you will not see my disability. You will see the real me, the essence of who I am.

Ron Perovich

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

This month's featured musician made headlines last month when he signed a deal with Hip Muzik. Now you can learn more about Ron Perovich, the artist behind the music that will soon be featured in videos for belly dancers.

Bistro Eggplant on the Go

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Not only has The Hip Mix Team prepared a wonderful eggplant recipe, but read on to learn more about the history and health benefits of this Hip veggie.

Top 10 Snacks for the Busy Belly Dancer

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Nutritional balance is a must for a belly dancer’s body. Belly dancers typically burn around 250 calories during a dance class, and that energy has to come from somewhere. Thanks to our fast paced lives, it's knowing what snacks can be thrown in your bag before setting off to yet another bellydance workshop that will do you the most good. With many so-called ‘’healthy snacks’’ on the market, which actually benefit your body the most?

Detox + Belly Dancers = A Healthy Decision??

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

When it comes to the nutrition and health of belly dancers, is a detox program a good choice? What is detox? Is it a diet? Is it fasting? Read what belly dancers, professionals and others share with HipMix.net on this buzz-worthy topic.

Butt Busters!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Hip Mix busts the myths about "Tinny Hinny's" being your best friend. Some of that extra junk in the trunk we have been fighting since junior high is a belly dancers new BFF.

Upper Arm Help

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Upper arms...the bane of every belly dancer's existence. That may be a bit of exaggeration, but the most common complaint heard in bellydance classes is "I hate my upper arms!" The Hip Mix Fitness team shares some simple moves to incorporate into your daily routine to help make your upper arms and YOU a happy dancer.

Belly Dancers Swim! Why You Should Add Some Splash To Your Life

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Swimming is a great fitness activity... and so is belly dance. Read on to learn what can happen when you mix the two, you'll be happy you did.

Core Fitness

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

In bellydance classes do you hear the phrase "conditioning the core" used? How about "engage your core muscles?" What is the core of a belly dancer's body and why is it so freaking important? The Hip Mix team tells you why having a strong core is so important to an oriental dancer, and great ways to get your core into top shape.

Love Your Legs

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Take a look at any bellydance costume catalog or website, and you'll find skirts with high slits on either one or both sides. Many belly dancers cringe at the thought of baring that much skin and given that 90% of women have cellulite, no wonder. Read on to learn great ways to strengthen, define muscle and even love your legs.

Basic Turkish Salad

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

For the nutrition-concious bellydancer, salads perfectly fit the bill for a healthy lifestyle. From the simple Turkish Shepherd's Salad, "Coban Salatasi," to a medley of veggies, you can use our basic recipe to create your own delicious dish. Afiyet Olsun!

Don't Be Too Busy For Breakfast

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Yes, your Mom is right: Breakfast IS the most important meal of the day. So if you know that, then why do you keep skipping out? Trying to drop some weight for your next bellydance performance? Read & learn more about what skipping the morning meal can do to you.

Burn More Calories Every Day - A Few Hip Tips!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Does bellydancing burn calories? You bet! But are you dancing every day? Read on as Hip Mix shares with you simple choices you can make each day to add some additional BURN.

Aliyah

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

The passion of this bellydance teacher and performer is not unusual. But Texas resident Aliyah credits bellydance for something much more - a physical and mental path of recovery. After a drunk driver ran over her and nearly killed her, it was and continues to be the art of oriental dance that keeps this police officer moving.

Lily Tsai - A Texas Based Dancer With A World of Knowledge

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Hip Mix is shining the spotlight on Lily Tsai, an amazing oriental dance artist, gifted bellydance instructor and beautiful soul. Meet Lily and you'll see why Hip Mix is proud to have her part of our instructional team.

Are You Ready? Preparing For Your Bellydance Performance

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

For a bellydancer, feeling prepared and relaxed when stepping onto the stage can be a challenge. So what can you do? Read on as your Hip Mix Team shares with you some great advice.

Belly Dancers & Personality Conflicts: What To Do In Those Rare Times

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

It's not fair to say, "get a group of women together and of course there will be issues." But when it comes to Belly Dance group dynamics it is said more often than not. Hip Mix explores proven methods to move past personality conflicts in a group. It's time to shine, not whine!

The Bellydancer's Other Half, A Supportive Partner

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

When a student is bitten by the Oriental Dance bug, it often means their spouse or partner becomes more than just another face in the audience. A new vocabulary and better photography skills are a few things that are likely to develop. Perhaps there is a middle eastern musician or dancer ready to emerge?

What about YOU? A Bellydancer's Guide to "Me-Time"

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Today's bellydancers wear many hats. Between all of the commitments, jobs, events and responsibilities, bellydancers still need to find the time to squeeze in practicing the art of Oriental Dance. So with all the go-go-go how do you find the time to take care of you?

Why Knot Productions Begins Video Series with Lily Tsai

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Burgeoning production company currently filming with world-renowned performer and choreographer
with more installments to be shot later this year.

It Takes Two To Belly Dance

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

If you thought you were alone in your new found passion in the world of belly dancing, think again. We depend on our supportive partners to help keep us balanced and grounded. A loving and supportive bellydance husband, Ken McCarty shares with us his insightful journey watching and supporting his wife Daisy learn the art of belly dance.

Beginner Bellydance Cabaret Costume Design Part 1- The Skirt

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

A belly dancer has many tools in their bag to enhance performances and that includes a great costume. A fabulous bellydance costume can be expensive and what if you are a beginner bellydancer? Read on as a bellydance newbie, Daisy shares with Hip Mix solutions to start your bellydance costume collection, DIY style.

She begins with a skirt, but hold on to your measuring tape, we will feature a Part 2 in a few weeks to complete your bellydance costume.

Beginner Cabaret Costume Design Part 2-The Top

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

HipMix continues the series on DYI constume design. In part 1 of the you learned how to make a cabaret skirt so lets grab our tapes and material to complete your personal creation.

Stop Procrastinating and Start Prioritizing!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Bellydancers and musicians alike, often feel like there isn't enough time in the day - or at least it seems that way. So how are you with your juggling skills? Ready to take charge of your time, rather than letting the time run away?

Bellydancers Don't Come With An Expiration Date

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

New to bellydance? Cool! Think you might be too old? Say whaaaat? Think again! Age is just a number, and no matter where you are in your life journey, bellydance can be a beautiful addition. Learn what brings so many people into the art of bellydance, as the Hip Mix team explores the magical appeal of oriental dance.

How To Tell If You're Becoming A Belly Dance Diva

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

A belly dancer shares her comical views on the topic of Diva-ism in the belly dance world. Read on and be armed with the tale-tell warning signs.

Lasers: A Hip Guide Through The High Tech Beauty Galaxy

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Been to the doctor's office lately? Hip Mix's Dilara Sultan has & was shocked to see the mutitude of different Laser treatments on the market. "I won't lie, I am a gal who plans to age the way I want to," Dilara said with a smile. Read on to learn some of the basics about current laser treatments. "It's the savvy bellydancer's guide thru the Laser Galaxy!"

What To Expect In Your First Belly Dance Class

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Finally decided to take a belly dance class? Good for you! Read on as Hip Mix and other belly dancers share what you can expect in your first belly dance class. No need to be nervous, Hip Mix is here to help sort the fact and fiction for you.

Bellydance Costume Care Basics

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

When it comes to taking care of our costumes, Dilara should know. After a weekend mishap involving a certain diet drink spilling out onto her costume, she got the HipMix team in action. Read on and learn some great information on how to take care of your bellydance investment.

Tribal CONfusion

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Whether you're new to the art of belly dance or a seasoned dancer, Hip Mix explores and explains the uniqueness of Tribal Bellydance. ATS, ITS are two styles that we hear of; but don't forget other names like: Gothic Tribal Bellydance, Tribal Fusion, Dark Tribal, Urban Tribal... and perhaps you know of more. Take a look as talk to other dancers to help understand the unique beauty of Tribal Style Bellydance.

Performance Anxiety: It's Not Only For Beginners

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Ask any bellydancer about their first performance, and they're likely to recall how nervous they were. However, those before show jitters are not reserved only for newbies. Read on as your Hip Mix team explores performance anxiety and how to control those butterflies.

Great links for more Belly Dance information!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Here are some of my favorite associations related to the bellydance community. From these sites you can learn more about the origins and history of oriental dance, get more education on the artform and perhaps even join non-profit organizations in your area.

When Is A Bellydance Prop a Crutch?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Bellydancers use a wide variety of props, including cane, sword, veil, double veil, candle trays, goblets, fan veils, wings of Isis, live snakes, and many, many others. In the hands of a skilled belly dancer, a well-handled prop adds another layer of interest to her performance. But where is the line between a prop enhancing a bellydance performance, and a crutch which may be crippling the bellydancer? The Hip Mix team explores this hot topic.

In The Begining, There Was The Web & Then It Got Hip.

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

In honor of the 6-month birthday, if you will, of HipMix.net, re look back at the first entry in Dilara's Diary.... ahhh, memories. So sweet. And cool to know that in that 6-month time one belly dancer's blog could be read by over 60,000.... wow!

Belly Dance Snob

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Women Peak at 31?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Women peak at 31? What does Dilara Sultan, the outspoken and sharp-witted writer/ belly dancer think about that one? Hahaha, you know. Now read on to see how she puts it into words.

Belly Dancers: You Gotta Go With Your GUT!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Burlesque and Belly Dance???? Sparked from an email received last week, Dilara Sultan addresses the question and gives us a test too. Do these two performance arts work well together?? Share your thoughts with us.

The Droid Phone... Not For This Belly Dancer's Busy Lifestyle.

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

News Flash: The Google Android is now the top in it's class, surpassing RIM (Blackberry). Huh? Yes, Google is a daily part of Dilara Sultan's life... but the Droid mobile phone is one example of technological disappointment. What rings with you?

My Favorite 4-Letter Word

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

The new stats have been shared at the Hip Mix office and Dilara is tripping out. What she refers to as her "6-month old baby" (the site HipMIx.net) has had an interesting journey thus far. See what this money-savvy belly dancer shares about her "baby" and her favorite 4-letter word.

Is Misogyny Masked As "Just Conversation" Or Am I Simply A Stupid B--ch ?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Do we still have issues of sexism? Have people, women included, allowed behavior and comments to simply "slide" as to not cause trouble? Is it just talk and really no biggie? Read on as Dilara Sultan, introduces a new thought on the subject of casual sexism in today's society.

Honey, This Ain't No Garage Sale...

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Does Frugal = Cheap? Not in Dilara's book. As HipMix.net launches it's Hip Shopping Experience this month, Dilara Sultan explains how a Coupon Queen can provide something valuable to the bellydance shopping scene. And please, don't EVER call her Cheap!

Aussie Bellydance Teachers (& all of us) Take Note - Fees for Music in the News Again!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Thanks to news from Hip Muzik, the Australian Copyright Tribunal has raised its fees for music used during fitness classes. And we're not just talking circus peanuts here!! Read on as Dilara Sultan give the 'head's up' to Aussie Bellydance Teachers... and the rest of the global bellydance community.

Art, Fashion & the Re-Birth Of The Material Girl

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Dilara Sultan sees what’s coming in the Fall 2010 fashion scene and sounds off... Do we have Madonna or Michelle Obama to thank? Is Bourgeois the new Black? How will the original Material Girl generation embrace the new/old ‘look’?

Belly Dance and Fitness with A "Real Housewife" This Weekend

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

When celebrities and belly dance converge, Dilara will be the first to tell you: it can be a good or not-so-good happening. So, in this weekend's news it seems celebrity belly dancing will be going on... but read again. And be happy!!

Is It Safe? Professional Pedicures

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Bellydancers want to look good from head to toe, so many turn to the salon for a pedicure. It can be relaxing and a great way to soothe tired feet. But keep your eyes open, you can't trust your feet to just anyone - your health may depend on it.

Safety First! Belly Dancers, Back Bends & Hair Tosses

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Belly Dance is beautiful, graceful and watching the dance artist move their body can be mesmerizing. Back bends and tossing hair are two moves that are exciting to watch but if don't improperly can cause a lot of grief for a belly dance later.

Looking for advice for older dancers...

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Our Hip Mix friend, Michele is looking for your thoughts. How old is too old to become a bellydancer? When did you begin? What words of wisdom do you have to offer to a mid-40's beginner?

Navel Jewels?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

How do you show off your belly button.... or do you hide it? They come in all shapes and sizes, and Hip Mix member Z is looking for your advice...

Faux Finishes Are Fabulous! Have A Safe Tan

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Getting that summer glow has been in the news once again. What are the safest and best practices for developing that sun kissed look without all the damage? HipMix reveals how to get the rich color and tone you want.

Skin Care Basics

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Being a belly dancer certainly has its perks, great costuming for one, that also leaves us with a lot of exposed skin. Hip Mix takes a closer look at some areas we don't always focus on but ceratinly get a lot of attention while performing.

Bellydancer Beauty On A Budget: Savvy Hair Care

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Bellydancers, like another other performer, invest time to look good from head to toe. This quest, however, can become expensive. But it doesn't have to be. Hip Mix gives you practical tips for for bellydancers and performers to combat bad hair days.

Why Wear Shoes?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

What about belly dance shoes at your belly dance performance? Do you wear shoes or do you do your floor work in the buff?

Body Art and the Bellydancer

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Hip Mix Writer and bellydance performer Damiena explores the history of tattoos and it's connection to the bellydance world. Is it only for the Tribal dancer? What stigmas, if any, still exist?

My Summer Sabbatical... Join Me.

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

A bellydancer's idea of "getting away from it all," but not leaving town. Yes, Dilara's going on a sabbatical, one that's sure to recharge, renew and be quite rewarding. Read on and decide if you will join her... chances are you'll be happy you did.

Move Over Jamie Lee Curtis... Bring In The Belly Dancers!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Jamie Lee Curtis, America's "Activia Lady," a Belly Dancer?? Why not? It would be a great commercial. See what was shaking in Canada and France for Dannon's ad campaigns. Oriental Dance. Someone certainly has some great taste!

Mediocre Music from Country, Pop & Bellydance Rap?? (part 1)

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

TIm McGraw falls short with his Southern Voice, Lady Antebellum has a top-selling booty-call anthem, and now the bellydance community gets a slap in the face from Sadie, Kaya and their snake-like charms.

Moving From Music to Movement: How Do We Represent The Art? (part 2)

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Bellydancers are heavily stereotyped, especially in the west. Is the the fault of media? Close-minded conservatives?? Or does the true blame fall on us, the bellydance community? Does the dance define us, and what about icons in the industry? Where does the line between poor judgement and professional responsibility fall - and who is qualified to call FOUL? Thanks to Sadie & Kaya, the debates have arose. Where do you see the problems, or are there any in their bellydance performances?

Burning & Sharing Your Belly Dance Music? It Could Cost You Thousands!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Copyright infringment... not an exciting topic for a bellydance blog? Read on my friend. A recent ruling in USA courts is calling for a student to pay almost $30K for making copies of music and sharing with her cheerleaders... Shocked? Are Bellydancers any different? Many are just as guilty.

Can Berlin's Lawmakers Help The Bellydance Community?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Pull Out The Knife & Get On With Life Already

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Belly Dancers Need to Thank Bin Laden for Belly Dance? Say What Bill O'Reilly!!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Belly Dance has a rich history. And it is not shocking that belly dance is popular all over the world, including America. But according to this clip from Bill O'Reilly's Show on Fox, it is not the art nor the beauty of belly dance BUT Osama bin Laden who Americans can credit it's popularity to. Dilara Sultan fires back.

My Boobs Aren't 'Dense,' Just Slow-Learners

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

"I took my girls for their first photo shoot," Dilara declared in the Hip Mix office. "Write about it," we responded. Read on to see how well her boobs performed on their Mammo Debut. You never forget your first time, do you?

From A Hip-Pop to a Jaw-Drop. What the hell happened this week?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

From the end of February, 2010 --- Dilara recaps the top info from around the world: a 90 year old belly dancer in the UK celebrates with a shimmy; Tarkan, his arrest and Dilara's ready to play 'doctor'; & let's not forget 'The Bill's' - Yes Bill Maher & Bill O'Reilly checkin out Dilara's Diary too!

The Life of One Belly Dancer & ................................... (insert alternate persona here)

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

What is the life of a belly dancer like?
What are their thoughts, personal philosophy and outlook?
This refreshing presective, shared by Dilara Sultan, may surprise you. Belly dance, accourding to her, is not about the shimmies, about the costumes or a diva-like personality, but a lifestyle. A lifestyle reflected through dance, music and thru the pages of HipMix.net as well.

You Did What? When You Were ______ -ing?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Bellydancers have proven time and time again that they posess many talents: smile & shimmy at the same time... well, that's obvious. But read on to learn what these talented bellydancers say they can accomplish while doing some mundane, daily tasks.

If You're Worth A Million Bucks, Why Do You Keep Giving Yourself Away?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Free belly dance performances? For a bellydancer to grow his or her business, or make contacts for future gigs, what is the best way to spread your Isis wings and soar? This is a great question and Dilara Sultan offers up her thoughts.

A Belly Dancer's Belly Aching: Observations From My Hospital Bed.

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

The belly ache of a belly dancer became a bit more than expected. Not once, but two times in the past week Dilara has been admitted to the hospital. The observations and experiences she has made during her stays are NOT those of a Total Type-A Control-Freak Belly Dancer... honest!

Judgemental or Just Mental?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

In preparation for an upcoming video shoot, Dilara reflects back on her days in front of the camera as an actress. This belly dancer's point of view on people, categories and judment opens up an interesting opportunity for YOU to share your thoughts on the subject. Are you judgemental?

What Exactly is the Speaker Saying? Pelosi Supports Royalties Rights For Almost Everyone

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Dilara Sultan is at it again --- sticking up for artists rights in the music industry. This bellydancer shares her thoughts on why the new words from Nanacy Pelosi aren't so great for musicians and composers... well, it depends on who you are.

Hip-Pops & Jaw-Drops, What Happened This Week? (4/30)

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

It's been a fist-fighting time in the political arena, and this bellydancers dishing! Dilara also shares the latest in film success for Ahmed. What's happening in Egypt with a Lebanese Pop-star's convicted killer?? And did you get a seat at tonight's Arabian Nights in NYC???

Hip-Pops & Jaw-Drops - What Happened this week? (4/24)

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

What do Louis Vuitton, Kelly Clarkson, Canada's Yasmina Ranzy, and a disappointing day in Houston's court system have in common? Dilara dishes on the good, the bad and the waaaay ugly in this past week's news, dance and entertainment scene.

Dilara's known for her wit, her honesty and her uncanny ability to recognize opportunities to educate about her passion: oriental dance and music. Belly dancers, musicians and fans follow this blog... and with over 23,000 views from around the world, this belly dance blog is emerging to the top of the list.

What's worse... the economy or our attitudes?

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

Trying to boost the economy by spending your money but you can't get ANYONE on the phone? What's with that!? Is it the economy's fault...or is it just plain laziness? Here's Dilara's perspective.

First zills!

2010-09-05T16:27:50Z

A beginner bellydancer is looking for advice about zills. What's your advice on keeping zills from falling off? What other advice do you have to share about zills for a new belly dancer?