Turn off the Media: Tune into Yourself Rocio Gómez, M.A. PPS

Factors that shape our Body Image 124 The MEDIA TV/Movies/Magazines Our Personal View How we view ourselves Judgments Comments from others Harassment Sexual and Racial 568 Changes Physical changes in our body; Puberty Our Family What our parents think of our bodies Our Culture What is instilled in our culture Actual Conditions Such as disabilities and illnesses 3 7

Poor Body Image affects ALL women A 10-year study of eating disorders in more than 2,000 girls (grades 4 through 12) found that more Latina girls reported frequent weight loss attempts over the previous year than did other backgrounds These are percentages of teenagers trying to lose weight.

The media DOES NOT reflect what women have achieved in society. The media ignores women who become lawyers, doctors, decision makers and business entrepreneurs. Advertisements and the media forget to include the complexities of modern women's lives. MYTHS V.S. FACTS: Myth #1: Overeating Causes Overweight Research suggests at least 51 causes of overweight, include genetic, metabolic & other environmental factors. Myth # 2: Dieting is Effective Clinical studies show that up to 95% of dieters regain the weight lost, within the first year. Myth #3: Dieting is Healthy In addition to inadequate nutrition, dieting implicates weakness, fatigue, weight gain & obesity. Myth # 4: Everyone Can Be Slim Many researchers suggest that the body has a "set point" or biological control for the amount fat in the body; weight is determined predominately by genetics and early nutrition.

The Power of the Media Advertising is the most influential media in our culture. It reflects our daydreams, affects what we eat, what we wear, how we look and play. Watch this!

What gets in the way of Happiness?? Insecurities Anger and resentment Fear Becoming a “victim” or jealousy Shame or guilt Lets work on our issues and let the baggage go!!

1. Face your fears 2. Forget your failures 3. Work on your self confidence 4. Reward yourself when you succeed. 5. Talk to those you trust 6. Never be defeated! Self- Improvement

Anything is Possible 1. Believe it is possible 2. Do the work to make it possible 2. Be persistent and determined!

Tips for Success…… Set goals and make adjustments when needed Find a support network Find a mentor Volunteer and be of service to others Follow your passion Focus on YOU!!!

It starts with YOU! Unconditional love; love without judgment, expectations, or conditions Self love/self esteem Stay confident and remain humble “You must love yourself before you love another. By accepting yourself and fully being what you are, your simple presence can make others happy.”You must love yourself before you love another. By accepting yourself and fully being what you are, your simple presence can make others happy