Body appreciation month is a special time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the diversity, strength, and uniqueness of our bodies. It is a movement that encourages people to cultivate positive relationships with their bodies, regardless of societal standards or appearance-based judgments. This month serves as a reminder that every body is worthy of respect, care, and kindness, inspiring individuals to embrace their own physical selves with compassion and gratitude.
At SUNY Cortland, Body Appreciation Month is celebrated with a week full of thoughtful events and activities designed to foster self-acceptance and promote mental and emotional well-being. From February 16 through February 20, the campus community will have the opportunity to engage in a series of interactive and educational experiences under the theme “Befriend Your Unique Self.” These events are aimed at helping students recognize their inner worth beyond appearance and challenge harmful societal pressures relating to body image.
Monday, February 15: Positive Post-Its (All Day)
The week begins with an all-day Positive Post-its campaign. Post-it notes with uplifting messages will be displayed on bathroom mirrors across campus. This simple yet powerful activity encourages students to start their day with affirmations and reminders of their worth, promoting positive self-talk and reinforcing kindness toward one’s body and mind.
Tuesday, February 17 – Cookies, Cocoa, and Compliments (1–3 PM, Neubig Hall/Lobby)
The warmth of hot chocolate and the sweetness of cookies will accompany a heartfelt event where participants receive handmade snowflakes with uplifting notes. This cozy gathering invites students to indulge in treats while exchanging compliments and spreading kindness. The event encourages community bonding and highlights the importance of celebrating the small joys that come from feeling seen and appreciated.
Wednesday, February 18 – Stop “Weighting” To Feel Better (7-8 PM, Corey Union Exhibition Lounge)
This educational session led by Dr. Lauren addresses the complex topics of eating concerns and body dysmorphia. Attendees will learn practical methods to practice intuitive eating and appreciate their bodies for what they are, not just what they look like. The event challenges weight-focused narratives and encourages a compassionate approach to self-care, empowering individuals to break free from negative body judgments.
Thursday, February 19 – Befriend Your Unique Self (1-3PM, Corey Union Fireplace Lounge)
Participants are invited to a creative session focused on treating oneself with the kindness and understanding one would offer a close friend. Attendees will make personalized journals and friendship bracelets, tangible reminders of self love and community support. Additionally, there is an opportunity to enter a raffle for a self care basket, reinforcing the message that caring for oneself is vital and deserving.
Friday, February 20 – Stuff-An-Animal With Kindness (3-4PM, Corey Union Exhibition Lounge)
The week concludes with a heartwarming activity where students create their own stuffed animals, placing a loving message inside as a “reminder” of their uniqueness and value. This event serves as a symbolic act of nurturing kindness toward oneself and others, especially in moments of self-doubt or struggle. Limited supplies make this a special treat for the first 100 students, adding a sense of community and shared experience.
Why Body Appreciation Matters:
Body appreciation is more than just a positive attitude toward one’s physical appearance; it is a foundational aspect of overall well-being. In a culture that often prioritizes unrealistic beauty ideals and superficial judgements, cultivating body appreciation helps individuals build resilience against harmful comparisons and self-criticism. When people learn to appreciate their bodies for their functionality, strength, and unique qualities, they foster a healthier mental and emotional state. This self compassion reduces anxiety, depression, and disordered eating behaviors, while promoting confidence, self-esteem, and a deeper connection to oneself.
By celebrating body appreciation, communities like SUNY Cortland create safe spaces for honest conversations and support around body image and self worth. These events remind students that their value is not always defined by appearance but by fulfillment of who they are. They also encourage habits of kindness and empathy that extend beyond the self, nurturing a culture of respect and inclusion.
This month is an empowering call to honor and cherish our bodies as vessels of life and experience. Cortland’s Body Appreciation Week offers a meaningful platform for students to engage in this journey, inspiring lasting change, self-acceptance and self love.