Healthy is the New Skinny at Woodland Public Library

The Woodland Public Library was honored and excited to host Katie H. Willcox from Healthy is the New Skinny and her presentation on media manipulation, self-love, happiness and overcoming negative thoughts from society.

Despite the heat, over 65 people, young and old, attended and participated in Zumba, Kickboxing, Yoga, crafts and drank smoothies made from frozen fruit and fresh chard from the library’s garden. We also had a health educator from Yolo County bring information for teens.

The highlight of the evening was Katie’s presentation and the impact she has on young girls and boys and also older men and women, is beyond positive and life-changing. In a post-survey, one 16 year old girl said she “will start being more positive and this helped me to understand other people’s views of beauty and to change my views to be more accepting of those views.” In other words… True beauty comes from within.

Katie incorporated her personal story as a plus-size model, educated with facts and history, and included personal testimonials from everyday people (every body type) to really get her message across. “YOU are wonderful and can live an authentic and healthy life.”

I admired how genuine and real she was during the event and how Katie took the time to meet and talk with all the girls and people. She truly listened, and made everyone feel valued. We even had some participants that drove as far as Modesto and San Francisco to attend our Health Festival and meet Katie.

All in all, the event was a huge success thanks to Katie, the fitness instructors, teen volunteers and participants. The event was funded by a grant from the California State Library, Friends of the Woodland Public Library and City of Woodland Measure J funds.

Written by,

Rhea- Teen Services Librarian