SMU’s sixth annual Love Your Body Week came to a close Thursday evening with a dinner symposium hosted by the SMU Women’s and LGBT Center. Sixty-one people gathered in Umphrey Lee’s Mack Ballroom to hear guest speakers and SMU students discuss body positivity and personal wellness. Door prizes, giveaways, and a smorgasbord of cuisine was provided for those in attendance.

The evening began at 6 p.m. when emcee Michael Connor introduced the first speaker, Jessica Lott. Lott is a professor in gender studies and a P.h.D candidate in anthropology at SMU. Her talk was centered on “Fat Activism” and her experiences as a full-figured woman.

One of Lott’s key points was society’s visceral reaction to the word “fat” and how it can affect our community at large. Instead of using the adjective as a simple descriptor (such as tall, short, blonde, or brunette), we commonly use the word “fat” as an insult.

“We have to take the negative power away from the word ‘fat,’” Lott said. “This doesn’t just benefit fat people. This is for everyone.”

Lott encouraged people to wear what they feel best in and have confidence in your figure no matter what the shape.

Emcee Connor then introduced Atali Carr, who takes “love your body” from a more biological perspective. Carr is a holistic living and natural health coach who developed the “Vibrant Method,” a lifestyle system designed to help individuals create and reach personal health goals through proper diet and activity.

Carr discussed the challenges of being healthy in college and gave audience members several things to think about.

“Treat your body like the machine that it is. Feed your body accordingly. Sleep accordingly,” Carr said.

She emphasized the importance of rest (plenty of sleep and time management) and proper nourishment (fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats) for managing stress and living a happy life.

After both guests spoke, a student panel joined Connor on stage to discuss their own struggles with body image and health, as well as share their experiences growing to accept themselves for who they are.

Kendell Miller-Roberts, a sophomore dance and human rights double major, said she has had her share of insecurities, but her ability to dance always reminds her of how magical her body really is.

“Loving your body isn’t going to happen overnight,” she said. “It takes a long time. But for now, be appreciative of what you are lucky enough to have.e