Shimmy with Sheikha

I’ve taken up belly dancing and I LOVE it! I’ve always wanted to learn how to belly dance, but it’s one of those things that you can’t tell just anyone – especially since the uptight and rigid people of the world look at you like you just told them you want to be a stripper or something. I discovered that a friend of mine was a belly dancer and I immediately said, «You must let me go with you!»
She recommended Shimmy with Sheikha, so I went to try it out. It’s up in Evergreen (off of 285 and N. Turkey Creek Rd.), so I didn’t think it would last, especially since I live in Highlands Ranch. Well, let me tell you, all it took was one time and I was hooked!
The 30-​minute drive is total bliss. Evergreen trees, aspens, wildlife… it’s just what this city girl needs once a week. Every Thursday is my «Serenity Now!» day. The music we dance to isn’t what you’d think – it’s very funky and cool with great beats. Sheila (Sheikha is her stage name) is ah-​mazing! She’s fun, upbeat and a great instructor. The women who attend her classes are equally awesome – it’s all about The Sisterhood. I’m telling you, I’ve had terrible weeks that are dissolved by attending one of her classes. On Mondays I start the countdown: 4 days until belly dancing… 3 days until belly dancing… When I’m getting cranky, Jeff will ask, «How many days until your class, hon?»
My husband can’t believe the transformation I’ve gone through since I’ve started. I used to be very self-​conscious about my body (I mean, c’mon, I live in Highlands Ranch: home of the cosmetic, stick-​figured trophy wife and I’m a Mexican with actual curves). Not anymore. Belly dancing gets you in touch with your inner-​self and is truly for EVERY body type. I also love that her studio is in the midst of nature and not in a gymnasium.
If you’re interested, go on her website and check it out (
). She also does entertainment for parties and group functions.