By SHANE WRIGHT
Body image is a problem that affects many people. Because the Women’s Services and Resources Center has received so many requests about the subjects of body image and nutrition, it is holding body kindness workshops.
The first workshop,”Body I Hear You,” will be presented by Jean Taylor Scott, Women’s Services and Resources coordinator, today at 11 a.m. in 1510 ELWC
Scott has been at BYU for 15 years. She received her master’s degree from California State Northridge.
She received her doctorate at BYU and is the chair of the Utah County Child Abuse Counsel.
She is also a member of the Women’s Conference Committee and spoke on body images at Women’s Conference this year.
She wants to help women see the lies that the media portray on what a woman should be and look like.
“I want women to feel comfortable about who they are and who they are not. I feels that this is an important part in keeping a healthy body image,” said Scott.
Kristy Shelton, mentor specialist for Women’s Services and Resources, said there is a problem at BYU with body images.
“There’s a problem with self-image here at BYU and the media is a big part of it,” Shelton said.
“It’s important that women accept who they are, satisfied with who they want to become, and work on those talents and qualities that will make them an asset to society,” she said.
Society puts an emphasis on good health, said Katy Ballenger, Miss Teen of America, but people can take it to an extreme.
“Exercise gives you energy and makes you feel good, but you need to find a balance,” she said.
This summer before the pageant, Ballenger said she went on an all-protein diet and an exercise program. Since the pageant, she has focused on eating a well-balanced diet and nutritious foods.
“Everywhere you go you see non-fat and fat-free,” Ballenger said. “Young people also view media figures as twigs and they feel that they have to live up to those expectations.”
Ballenger stressed that women should find a balance in their exercise programs and maintain good health.
