Spring Break
ETSU Love Your Body Day boosts positive self image
Heather Seay
Issue date: 10/27/05 Section: News
|
There is a need for events like this, Bushore-Maki said, because one out of five college women suffer from eating disorders, and 96 percent of women want to change something about their bodies.
"There is a large segment of our population who don't like their bodies," Bushore-Maki said.
Actions against some of the reasons why women have negative self images were also being taken at the event. Petitions were being passed around at the event to stop the negative images perpetuated by advertising media. The media, Bushore-Maki said, sends distorted messages about how women should look and behave.
"I think the petitions we're sending to marketing groups are great," said Leona Nixon, a sophomore majoring in early childhood development.
Vendors at the event were there to offer information and services to raise women's self-awareness. Several campus programs and groups were present at the event.
The Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance offered a board where women could write what they love about their body on a Post-it note and attach it in front of the booth.
Free chair massages were offered by two groups - the Body Health and Mind Center, 807 N. Roan St. and Integrated Health Concepts, 240 Medical Park Blvd, Suite 1000, Bristol.
The Body Health and Mind Center also offers a full range of spa treatments as well as a full service hair salon. At Wednesday's event they were giving away $40 in spa services.
Jean Buchanan, a licensed massage therapist, offered pregnancy massages as well as chair massages at the Love Your Body Day events.
Offering massage therapy, acupuncture, herbalism, raindrop therapy and Reiki, Integrated Heath Concepts also offers the traditional services of a medical doctor. "We encourage people to take responsibility for their own wellness," said Marita Aicher-Swartz, the Reiki master at Integrated Health Concepts.