Halloween can sometimes feel like a trick for those committed to a healthy lifestyle. But don't let it spook you! To keep your wellness goals on track, take a minute to revisit your "why" – the reason you began this amazing journey. And don't forget, your independent OPTAVIA Coach is here to cheer you on!

While Halloween celebrations usually call for sugary treats, you can still revel in the holiday's magic without derailing your progress. Whether you're relaxing at home, escorting little ones for trick-or-treating or partying at a monster bash, check out the following playful tips to help you stay on your health quest this Halloween:

• Outwit the Treats: At a shindig, go for the tiniest plate you can find and resist the urge to stack it sky-high with goodies. Offer to bring a veggie platter or a Lean & Green dish to ensure there are healthy bites to munch on.
• Dive into the OPTAVIA App, found in the App Store (for Apple lovers) and Google Play (for Android enthusiasts). It's a treasure trove with over 200 scrumptious recipes that are both mouthwatering and guilt-free!
• Don't Begin the Night Hungry: Whether you're guiding trick-or-treaters or joining a Halloween hoedown, don't head out with a growling belly. Enjoy an OPTAVIA Fueling accompanied by refreshing water. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the Halloween excitement, without your tummy calling the shots!
• Offer Treats That Sparkle: Instead of the usual candy haul, consider handing out glow sticks, teeny glow-in-the-dark toys, crayons, or coloring books to the kiddos. These non-edible treats are just as enchanting.
• Add a Dash of Activity: If you're hosting a gathering, make it more than just a food fest. Toss in activities like a costume parade or a game of tag to keep everyone moving and grooving.

With these tricks up your sleeve, you can conquer the Halloween temptations like a pro. And remember, your OPTAVIA Coach is your Halloween hero, here to guide you not just through this spooky season, but all the festivities to come. Keep rocking your wellness journey!

As the leaves fall and November dawns, it's time for us to come together in support of Men's Health Awareness during Movember. This month-long campaign is dedicated to raising awareness of critical issues affecting men's health, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention throughout the month of November. At OPTAVIA, we believe in the holistic wellness of our community members and that includes the men among us. 

This Movember, we're excited to highlight OPTAVIA ACTIVE, to encourage physical activity, foster connections and promote overall well-being among our community members. Let's join hands in making a difference, not just in our own lives but in the lives of those we care about. 

Here's how you can get involved and make a meaningful impact this Movember: 

• The Movember Challenge: Commit to a physical activity goal this month, whether it's walking, running, cycling, or hitting the gym. Share your fitness journey and progress with the OPTAVIA Community on our dedicated social media channels, using the hashtag #OPTAVIAACTIVE.
• Spread Awareness: Grow a Mo! Grow a mustache, take a picture and share it on your social media profiles. Encourage your friends and family to do the same. Share important men's health facts, figures and resources to educate your loved ones about the importance of early detection and prevention.
• Support and Share Your Journey: Connect with fellow OPTAVIA Community members participating in Movember. Share your experiences, struggles and achievements. Together, we can motivate each other to reach our goals.
• Nutritional Support: Remember, nutrition plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Talk to your OPTAVIA Coach about maintaining a balanced diet during your Movember journey.

Let's make a difference this Movember and raise awareness about men's health issues. Together, we can promote healthier lifestyles, encourage early detection and provide much-needed support for those facing health challenges. The OPTAVIA Community is here to support you every step of the way. 

Stay active, stay healthy and let's make this Movember a month of positive change for men's health! 

The Intimidating Path to Wellness

In the pursuit of health and happiness, we often encounter challenges that test our resolve. Corey, a remarkable individual, knows this struggle all too well. Throughout his life, he battled with his weight, facing ridicule and adversity. Yet, his inspiring journey with OPTAVIA proves that transformation is possible, no matter how daunting the obstacles may seem.

As a child, Corey experienced the pain of being picked on for his weight, a memory that lingered into adulthood. He engaged in manual labor and recreational activities to keep his weight in check, but it was an uphill battle. In 2004, a job promotion led to more desk time, and his weight began to creep up. He embarked on a never-ending quest for the "magic pill" or the "perfect diet," trying numerous fad diets, each with some success but none offering lasting results.

The turning point came in 2017 when Corey reached a breaking point. Weighing 476lbs, he lived in constant pain, his mobility severely restricted. Simple tasks like standing and walking were excruciating. Sleep eluded him, and he relied on energy drinks just to get through the day. It was a harrowing experience, with nightly fears of not waking up.

In October 2017, Corey's desire to see his son play football led him to a pivotal moment. Despite the immense pain and embarrassment, he stood on the sidelines, aching to be part of the moment. As he sat in his car afterward, overwhelmed by despair, he cried out to a higher power, seeking answers. In that moment, he felt a divine message: "I already provided a way. You just haven't been ready to listen!" It was a message of hope, and a friend from church became the instrument of change.

Reaching out to his friend, Corey discovered that he and his wife were Certified OPTAVIA Coaches. They had not only shed substantial weight but maintained their new healthy lifestyles. Corey seized the opportunity, ordered his program, and embarked on a life-altering journey.

On October 27, 2017, Corey began his transformation at 476lbs. Over the next two years, he lost a remarkable 250lbs*, reclaiming his life and his health. To mark this incredible achievement, Corey celebrated by running his first-ever 5K on the second anniversary of his journey. Surrounded by loved ones, clients, and coaches, it was a day filled with profound significance.

Today, Corey and his wife are Certified OPTAVIA Coaches, paying forward the gift of freedom they discovered. They are dedicated to helping others find their own paths to transformation, proving that with determination and the right support, we can conquer even the most daunting challenges life throws our way. Corey's story is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the OPTAVIA program, proving that no goal is too ambitious when you believe in yourself and the possibilities that lie ahead.