As the temperatures drop and winter blankets the world in a cool embrace, it can be tempting to hibernate indoors and take a break from your regular exercise routine. However, staying active during the cooler months is not only possible but can also be incredibly rewarding for your overall well-being. At OPTAVIA, we believe that maintaining an active lifestyle is a key component of a healthy journey, regardless of the season.

Check out these tips and tricks to help you stay active and energized during cooler weather.

• Bundle Up and Step Out: One of the best ways to combat the chill is to layer up and brave the outdoors. Invest in quality thermal gear available at the OPTAVIA Gear Store to keep you warm, and make sure to dress in layers that you can easily shed as your body temperature rises during exercise. A brisk walk or jog in the crisp winter air can be invigorating, providing a welcome change of scenery while keeping you on track with your fitness goals.
• Explore Winter Sports: Winter offers a myriad of sports and activities that can turn exercise into a fun adventure. Whether it's ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, or even a friendly game of snowshoeing, these activities not only provide an excellent workout but also add an element of excitement to your routine. OPTAVIA encourages finding joy in movement, and winter sports can be an entertaining way to stay active.
• Indoor Workouts with Aaptiv: For those days when the weather is just too harsh, bring your workout indoors. Through our partnership with Aaptiv, a leader in digital fitness, OPTAVIA Clients can sign up for a low-cost monthly or annual membership that unlocks access to over 7,000 workouts across a variety of fitness categories. From high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to yoga, there's a workout for everyone. All you need is a small area, a positive mindset and the determination to keep moving, no matter the weather outside. Whether you’re working out at home or in the gym, Aaptiv will provide the guidance you need to make moves every day.
• Set Realistic Goals: Understanding your limitations and adjusting your fitness goals during the colder months is crucial. OPTAVIA promotes setting realistic and achievable goals, whether it's maintaining your current level of activity or exploring new forms of exercise. By setting achievable goals, you'll stay motivated and be more likely to stick to your routine, even when the weather makes it challenging.
• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Proper hydration and nutrition are essential, especially during cooler weather. OPTAVIA emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced diet to fuel your body for optimal performance. Additionally, staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature and supports overall well-being. Don't forget to continue your healthy eating habits and stay mindful of your nutritional needs during the winter months.

Staying active in cooler weather may present some challenges, but with the right mindset and a bit of creativity, you can make it an enjoyable and integral part of your healthy living journey with OPTAVIA. Stay active, stay warm and let OPTAVIA be your partner on this exciting journey toward a healthier you.

The holiday season is often synonymous with joy, celebration and togetherness. However, amidst the festive chaos and bustling activities, it's essential to carve out moments of peace and quiet for your well-being. OPTAVIA recognizes the significance of maintaining balance during this busy time.

Let’s explore practical tips to help you find tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

• Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst the holiday shopping, decorating and gatherings, it's easy to forget about self-care. OPTAVIA encourages you to make self-care a priority. Schedule specific times for activities that bring you peace, whether it's reading a book, taking a long bath, or practicing mindfulness. By setting aside time for yourself, you can recharge and face the holiday rush with a renewed sense of calm.
• Create a Quiet Space: Designate a specific area in your home as a tranquil retreat. It could be a cozy corner with cushions and blankets, or a small room adorned with calming decorations. This space can serve as your sanctuary, providing a brief escape from the holiday hustle. Spend a few minutes there each day to unwind and center yourself.
• Plan Mindful Breaks: In the midst of holiday preparations, it's crucial to take short breaks to reset your mind. Incorporate mindfulness exercises into your routine, such as deep breathing or quick meditation sessions. These brief respites can be powerful tools to manage stress and maintain a sense of calm amid the chaos.
• Set Boundaries: Don't hesitate to set boundaries during the holidays. Clearly communicate your limits with friends and family and let them know when you need some time alone. Whether it's a quiet evening at home or a solo walk-in nature, establishing and maintaining boundaries ensures you have the space you need to recharge.
• Schedule 'Me Time' on Your Calendar: Just as you schedule holiday gatherings and shopping trips, make sure to schedule 'me time' on your calendar. Treat this time with the same level of importance as any other commitment. By making self-care a non-negotiable part of your schedule, you'll be more likely to prioritize and protect these moments of peace.
• Embrace the Joy of JOMO: The "Joy of Missing Out" (JOMO) is a concept that encourages finding happiness in missing out on hectic or draining activities. Embrace JOMO during the holidays by being selective about the events you attend. It's okay to decline invitations and opt for quiet evenings at home. Choose activities that truly bring you joy and align with your well-being.

This holiday season, make a conscious effort to weave moments of peace and quiet into the fabric of your celebrations. By following these tips, you can create a balance between festive chaos and personal tranquility, ensuring that you not only survive the holidays but truly enjoy and cherish this special time of the year.

From Rock Bottom to Global Impact

Francesca, a wife and mother of two, found herself at a low point in July 2020, battling diabetes, fatty liver, and high cholesterol and triglycerides. Parenting from a couch, she had tried numerous weight-loss methods without success, leading her doctors to express doubt about her efforts.

One morning, overwhelmed and contemplating life, Francesca's husband encouraged her to reach out to an OPTAVIA Coach. Despite initial apprehension, a conversation with the Coach, along with support from her husband, convinced Francesca that she deserved a healthier life. Embracing the OPTAVIA program, she experienced rapid progress, shedding 11 pounds within two weeks* and feeling a newfound vitality.

The positive changes extended beyond physical health. Motivated by her transformation, she inquired about sharing this journey widely. Encouraged by her Coach, Francesca took on a new role as an independent OPTAVIA Coach herself.

Becoming a Coach became a profoundly rewarding decision. As Francesca coached clients, her family took notice and became invested in their own well-being. The collective journey toward health strengthened the family bond. Inspired to extend this impact, Francesca began bringing on more Coaches, realizing that she was not only contributing to physical health but also making a positive impact on emotional well-being.

With the exponential growth of Coaches and Clients, Francesca recognized the potential for a broader impact. Her influence expanded, reaching friends and family, and the movement gained momentum. The initial goal of fostering a healthy environment for her family evolved into a mission to bring lifelong transformation to a growing number of individuals.

As Francesca added Coaches from different parts of the country, she noticed the potential for a national impact. Their shared motto, #OperationBuffalo, symbolized their commitment to creating an impact across the country by meeting in the middle. Eager to extend their reach globally, Francesca expressed a hope to expand to other countries, recognizing the potential benefits for loved ones abroad.

Looking toward the future, Francesca and her expanding team aspire not only to make a national impact but also to contribute to a global transformation. Their collective goal is to bring health and well-being to individuals worldwide through the OPTAVIA program.