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UTHSC events for American Heart Month

During the month of February, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is hosting community-wide events to observe American Heart Month as designated by President Barack Obama.  During the month of February, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is hosting community-wide events to observe American Heart Month as designated by President Barack Obama.  The two, free events stress the importance of smart cooking, eating and exercise habits, and the acceptance of weight variations throughout life.  

“Love Your Body Month” events feature a forum on eating disorders and unrealistic body images, as well as a health and fitness seminar. The seminar offers relaxation techniques, simple exercises for adults and youth, lunch and a cooking demonstration by Memphis native Bryant Terry, nationally recognized eco-chef, food activist and author of “Vegan Soul Kitchen.”

“Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a challenge throughout the life cycle,” said Frank Harrison, UTHSC Fitness Center director.  

 “It’s important to find ways to improve our health habits, but we should keep a realistic perception of individual body image,” said Fonda Fracchia, UTHSC fitness and wellness coordinator.

“The ‘Barbie doll’ body type that society pressures women to have is unfeasible and men are not likely to maintain washboard abdominal muscles at middle age and beyond.  However, everyone can strive for the best body possible with reasonable weight and strength goals. That’s where Love Your Body Month activities can help.”

“Love Your Body Month” events will be held on the UT Health Science Center campus.

Popcorn and Perspective

This forum on eating disorders and unrealistic body images will be on Tuesday, Feb. 22, from noon to 1 p.m. Patricia Duda, an expert on eating disorders affiliated with the Transformation Center of Memphis, a counseling center to improve physical and mental well-being, will speak on understanding realistic goals for your body image.  The free event includes complimentary popcorn and will be held in the plaza at 920 Madison Avenue.  

Forever Fit, Forever Fun

This health and fitness seminar is set for Saturday, Feb. 26, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Student-Alumni Center, 800 Madison. The seminar will engage adults and youth in stress relief and relaxation techniques, as well as simple exercises to do at home, work or school.  

In addition, the seminar will include a healthy cooking demonstration by special guest Chef Bryant Terry, and a forum on the link between brain development and nutrition by UTHSC expert Paul Herron, PhD. Lunch will be provided.  The session is open to the first 125 participants and reservations are requested.  To make a reservation, call Regina Sims at 448-5069 by Thursday, Feb. 24.

(For more information or to inquire about joining the UTHSC Fitness Center, contact Regina Sims at 448-5069 or visit: www.uthsc.edu/campusrec.)