TODAY'S WOMAN: Are you short of confidence? Try pole dancing...
Women lacking in confidence used to head for assertiveness classes.
Now, they're being urged to throw caution and most of their clothes to the winds... and enrol for a pole-dancing class.
The notion of painfully shy women being asked to parade like strippers to make them feel better about themselves sounds like a contradiction in terms, but organisers say it works.
"In today's image conscious society, women are bombarded with pictures of young, gorgeous, size zero models. Our confidence has taken a major bashing.
"But the glamorous, curve-loving art of burlesque can help," say Polestars, who run dance classes throughout the country. They teach easy steps that help women feel more confident about being sexy, and see their curves as advantages.
But even before you set foot in a class, Polestars say women can learn to be more confident by following these simple steps... and faking it.
Confidence is all about loving yourself and if you do, the world is your oyster. The art of Burlesque teaches you to embrace those curves and imperfections, cellulite and all.Remember that no-one is perfect, nobody is flawless. Look at yourself in the mirror and instead of playing up your negative points, remind yourself how great you are.
If you look good, you'll feel good. Get a new hairstyle. Think glossy locks and lots of curls. If your hair is short, add fabulous, encrusted hair pins.
Diamonds aren't a girl's best friend, her make-up bag is. Use cosmetics to enhance your best features. Burlesque girls love red lipstick and eyeliner because it creates an instantly glam image – they can become their sexy alter-ego at the swish of a lipbrush. But if you don't feel confident enough to be so bold, cosmetics counters can show you lots of subtle make-up.
Hiding under baggy clothes? Nothing eats at your confidence more than an ill-fitting wardrobe. It's not about being waif thin so love those hips, and slip into something gorgeous. Pencil skirts and high heels are in and hourglass silhouettes are amazingly sexy.
Walk tall. Confident people do not slouch; they do not drag their feet.
Eye contact is essential in exuding that all-important air of confidence.
Remember to smile and try to relax and revel in your newly faked confidence. It will soon become real confidence.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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