Body piercings have been the object of much controversy -- besides
being an artistic expression and a celebration of one's physical
endowments. The belly ring is such a piece of jewelry.
In times of old, body piercings were treated differently, depending on
the culture. As most body piercings had ritual or ceremonial value,
many cultures prohibited specific types of body piercing that were
purely for the sake of adornment. The warriors of old Central and
South American civilizations sported body piercings, specifically in
the nose area, in order to appear more intimidating to their enemies.
On the other hand, lip piercings and decorations were meant to enhance
attractiveness, especially among women of the day and age.
And while body piercings were more or less common in ancient Egypt,
the ancient Egyptian pharaohs actually appropriated specific types of
piercings. For example, no one BUT members of the royal family should
wear a belly ring, on pain of death! Talk about the price of vanity.
Nowadays there is still some stigma associated with body piercings,
especially among young women. It may be true that piercing is not
always a safe practice, but more and more tattoo parlors are adopting
measures that will ensure that infection is at least avoided. The
increasing popularity of body jewelry cannot be ignored, especially
since things like the belly ring and lip ring are making their way to
MTV!
Yes, we're talking about Britney Spears and her belly rings. We're
talking about the famous "stars and moon" dangling belly ring she wore
to the MTV music awards last year. We're also talking about Christina
Aguilera and her "Nirvana nipple ring," among lots of other
unconventional accessories -- made slightly less unconventional by
their appearance on international TV.
Belly rings are popular among young people who like to get together
and dance. Dancers on TV are popularizing it as a sexy accessory.
There are no pharaohs
http://www.dontplayplay.com/html/Bothsexes/20061002/47493.html