From March 25 to March 30, Hokie Wellness and the Linda Davis Endowment are sponsoring a campus- wide campaign called “Body Matters Week.”
Stemmed from the Body Matters Project, this week is dedicated to the promotion of positive physical and emotional wellness in college students. The Body Matters Project in itself works to prevent body issues and eating disorders by encouraging students to become the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves. Combating appearance ideals from each angle, the students and faculty in Hokie Wellness have planned a week full of self love and body acceptance. Here is the itinerary for the week:
Sunday 25
Women on Weights (McComas Gym)
11 a.m.-12 p.m. Many college girls feel intimidated lifting next to their male classmates. In fact, some girls avoid weight lifting for the pure fact that they do not want to be judged using smaller weight. Women on Weights helps girls get acclimated with fitness equipment they may feel uncomfortable using on their own. This event helps students get an intimate and stress-free experience with the McComas Gym weight room. Personal trainers will lead small groups through challenging exercises and safe weight lifting techniques.
Monday 26
Ask a Professional Expo (Mccomas Hall Lobby)
1:30–4:30 p.m.
Brought to you by Cook Counseling Center, this casual health expo gives students the opportunity to chat with professionals in a fun, upbeat setting. Ask questions about mental health, fitness, body image, healthy eating habits and how to combat the pressures of fad-dieting. Giveaways and raffles will be given to those bold enough to gain insight on their personal health.
Tuesday 27 and Friday 30
Combined Cooking Class and Mindful Eating (McComas room 143)
Tuesday session: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Friday session 12-1:30 p.m.
One of the biggest struggles of adapting to college life is adapting to college eating habits. This cooking and healthy eating class provides students with cooking skills, healthy eating techniques, and tips on how to turn a healthy meal into a healthy lifestyle habit.
Wednesday 28
Cultural Impact of Body Images and Its Effect on the Black Community (Black Cultural Center)
12:00–1:15 p.m.
The Black Liberation Talk Series at the Black Cultural Center of Virginia Tech is offering an opportunity to discuss the social and political standing of the Black Community in a fun- uplifting environment. Come eat, chat, and hear the testimonies of the students and faculty in this community. In light of Body Matters Week, discussions will stem from body image issues, mental health awareness, and how to combat societal pressures to conform.
Thursday 29
“Embrace” movie (Lyric Theater)
First Show: 4:45 p.m. Second Show: 6:45 p.m.
Offered for free admission at the Lyric Theater, this film highlights the mental health journey of former body builder Taryn Brumfitt. After choosing herself over her image, Brumfitt started a global phenomenon in the fight against the pressures of appearance ideals. “Embrace” not only accentuates the importance of self love, but the benefits of acknowledging beauty in all shapes and sizes.
Nurturing a Healthy Relationship with Food (McComas 198)
12:30-1:30 p.m
Join Virginia Tech registered dietitian nutritionists in a discussion about fact vs. fiction on popular fad diets and sustainable approaches to weight management while nurturing a healthy relationship with food. This event is open to students and employees. Pre-registration preferred. Light snacks and refreshments provided, bring your own lunch.
Body Positive Yoga (McComas Hall, Studio B)
5:15-6:15 p.m.
Embrace yourself, just as you are in this moment, with a Hatha yoga class led by Erin Doty. Strengthen and support your yoga practice with props for safer alignment, more freedom, and a relaxed experience. Receive and affirm your power in this class that features sun salutations and a guided meditation. Take home affirmations to unify toward your greatest potential with self-care, confidence, and grace. Class is suitable for all levels.
Use Body Matters Week as an excuse to spread extra love and acceptance in your community. Attend the events, bring your roommates, spread the word, and help your peers realize their worth. Body positivity does not start and end in these five days. Make body positivity a lifestyle habit, and happiness will follow suit.
Find out more information and register for events here!