The Power of Giving Back on your OPTAVIA Journey

In addition to fostering a rational and positive mindset, OPTAVIA places a strong emphasis on the concept of paying it forward through acts of contribution and giving back. By sharing your personal achievements and spreading kindness through small gestures and volunteering, you not only make a positive impact on others but also experience a profound sense of self-fulfillment.

Here are some practical ways to make a meaningful contribution and give back to your community:

Practice Daily Acts of Kindness

• Challenge yourself to perform at least one small act of kindness each day. Simple gestures like sending an encouraging text to a friend or colleague can boost confidence and show your support.
• Compliment someone sincerely, surprise a coworker with lunch or coffee or prepare a nutritious Lean & Green meal for a neighbor in need. These acts of kindness can have a ripple effect of positivity.

Volunteer Your Time

• Dedicate some of your time to local organizations that are in need of support. Research organizations to discover various volunteering opportunities.
• Volunteering not only benefits the community but also allows you to connect with like-minded individuals and contribute to causes that align with your values.

Donate Gently Used Items

• Make a positive impact by donating gently used clothing, furniture, or food to local charities or shelters. Your contributions can provide essential resources to those in need while setting an example for others to follow.
• Cleaning out your closet or pantry can be a simple yet effective way to give back and declutter your own life in the process.

As you continue to integrate the habit of giving back into your OPTAVIA journey, it will become second nature. You'll discover that contributing to your community not only benefits others but also contributes to your personal happiness and overall well-being.

As the weather gets cooler, finding fresh veggies can be a bit challenging, but don't worry! You can still grow your own delicious and nutritious vegetables in your backyard, indoors or on a small balcony. Gardening is an enjoyable and rewarding activity that anyone can try, regardless of their level of experience.

Below are some suggestions that are perfect to accommodate large or small spaces:

• Kohlrabi - Kohlrabi is packed with good stuff like vitamin C, calcium, and fiber. You can grow it in pots or containers. Even a sunny windowsill can work. Try adding shredded kohlrabi to a slaw or salad or making kohlrabi “noodles”. Kohlrabi tastes great roasted, steamed, and grilled too!
• Radishes - Radishes are speedy growers. You can harvest them in just 30 days! They're also high in vitamin C and low in carbs. Plant them in small pots or even a hanging planter so they are easily accessible for your Lean & Green meals.
• Turnips - Turnips are a great choice. You can eat both the roots and the leaves. They're low in carbs and can be grown in pots or containers.
• Mustard Greens - Mustard greens are not only healthy but also grow quickly. They add a zesty flavor to your dishes. You can grow them in small containers or a window box.
• Kale - Kale is super nutritious. It's rich in vitamins A and C, plus calcium and potassium. Try a kale salad with salmon for a delicious, healthy Lean & Green meal. It grows well in pots or containers.

Remember, you can have these vegetables with any of our meal plans - they are great additions to Lean & Green. Even if you don't have a backyard, you can still enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own vegetables. Just find a sunny spot inside or a small space outside and get planting. If you're not sure how to start or need some advice on growing veggies in small spaces, feel free to ask me.

Let's make this fall a healthy and green season together! Happy gardening!

From Struggle to Strength

Elizabeth's journey began months before she mustered the courage to say "Yes." It was a time when she was weighed down by the relentless burdens of endometriosis, her weight and the exhaustion that permeated every aspect of her life. She knew she had reached rock bottom and was utterly tired of feeling "sick and tired."

Though she initially turned down the opportunity to change her life, in February 2017, Elizabeth was confronted with the stark reality of her situation. Approaching her 30s, 100 pounds overweight and facing daunting health challenges, she realized she needed help. Her life was spiraling out of control and her demanding job left her drained.

On February 28th, 2017, Elizabeth embarked on a transformative journey, one that would alter her perspective on everything in her life. Surprisingly, this journey didn't feel like a diet; it felt like a lifestyle shift. One healthy habit at a time, Elizabeth began shedding pounds while becoming more intentional and present in the lives of those around her. The power of OPTAVIA’s Community, her Coach's guidance and exploring the six macro-habits of health were instrumental in her transformation.

Elizabeth shares, "By learning how to eat with a simple system, growing in a community with like-minded people and leaning on my OPTAVIA Coach, I am now able to be one-hundred percent present with people!"

In just nine short months, Elizabeth lost over 80 pounds*, but her journey didn't stop there. During this time, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 Endometriosis and other hormonal conditions. Despite these challenges, Elizabeth maintained her weight and discovered a newfound love for CrossFit and running.

Last year, on July 8th, Elizabeth delved into the NEW Habits of Health System 2.0, which transformed her perspective on health and wellness. The Element discussing Addictive Qualities of Food made her realize she was responsible for her food choices. She made a momentous decision on July 8th, 2019 – cutting out ALL refined sugars from her diet.

On February 29, 2020, Elizabeth celebrated her 3-year healthiversary by running a 5K she had trained for. The very next day, she decided to recommit to her health, putting herself first. This decision couldn't have been timelier, as just two weeks later, the world faced unprecedented times.

Elizabeth acknowledges that some may view her journey as filled with ups and downs, but to her, OPTAVIA is about a holistic transformation encompassing body, mind and finances.** Her journey has blessed her and her family, granting her newfound freedoms in physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Elizabeth understands that this journey is lifelong, and she's filled with gratitude for the growth and transformation she's experienced over the past three years. She's well on her way to achieving her goal of losing 100 pounds and embracing abundant freedoms all because of that one small "Yes!"