Make Your Body Your Valentine

Most people spend the month of February displaying love for others, but Counseling Services Department would like for students to spend time loving themselves. During this month of Body Image Awareness Month, Counseling Services Director Jennifer Catlett is ready to improve the way students think about their bodies.While some plans for Body Image Awareness month are still being finalized, there are two definite dates students should put on the calendar: February 16th in Swann Hall and February 24th in Alumni Hall. Three student volunteers will share their testimonies and a short video will be shown that exposes the negative impact that the media makes on one's body image. One student will be discussing body image as it applies to different cultures and diversity groups. Both events begin at eight o'clock. Catlett's aim is to make the events up close and personal so that responses are numerous and honest.

Another event to promote Body Image Awareness Month will be held in the MSAC on February 25th. From eleven to one, students will be able to participate in a hands-on activity to improve body image.

Students have also been invited to a special showing of the movie America the Beautiful: Life. Liberty. And the pursuit of Size Zero at the University of Tennessee. Doors open at six and admission is free. Several notable counselors and doctors from organizations such as Focus Healthcare and The Ranch, an eating disorder treatment facility, will be attending.

Body image awareness and improvement does not end in February. On Monday, April 12th, Carson Newman will host author Anita Johnston, PH.D. Johnston's presentation is titled Cracking the Code: Using metaphors to understand and treat disordered eating. This professional workshop will be held in Gentry Auditorium from seven to nine pm. Those wishing to attend must RSVP by April 5th.

In case none of these dates work into your schedule, the National Eating Disorders Association lists several ways students can improve their body image, including surrounding ones self with positive people and wearing clothes that are comfortable and that make you feel good about your body. Students who wish to improve body image should also do something nice for themselves and appreciate all their bodies can do. It is also suggested that students spend the time and energy that you might have spent worrying about food, calories, and your weight to do something to help others.

The Counseling Services Department's website offers more information about Body Awareness including a link to mental health screening website that helps students identify issues and learn more about themselves.