Which brings us to modern belly dancing in the United States. Belly dancing is now both an exotic dance and a form of exercise. In some social circles, it is used to teach women how to embrace their femininity. The dance form came to the US through European exposure. Because belly dancing spread to Europe, during war time invasions of Arabic territories. Belly dancing is one of the most exotic forms of entertainment, due to the rapid hip movements. When Europeans first saw belly dancers perform, it was deemed, erotic and scandalous, because it was during the Victorian Era.