Okay, this was not what I expected but I am not disappointed. This book is printed to look like a small magazine - in fact I had to take a double look at it. It is small in size and very glossy. In fact every page is color pictures and is also glossy. This makes is great to carry around as it is small enough to fit in a purse or bag. Also the glossy pages are more wear resistant and would stand up to small spills or other accidents (especially if you have small children around).

I found this book to be unique in its setup and that may be one of its greatest selling points. Since it does not look or feel like a normal book it is less intimidating. It is split into 6 weeks each with a theme of sorts. I enjoyed the personal stories listed for each week. Each day begins with a morning reflection that can easily be done in a few minutes. The next page is "Daily Practices" these are ways to improve your faith life, medical,movement, work, emotional, family & friend, and nutrition. These are small suggestions and encouragements to change areas in your life for an overall healthier lifestyle. This books focuses on all areas of life, not putting emphasis on one thing over another. The day ends with the Evening Wrap-up which is reflection and bible verses and a prayer.

Very good book littered with scripture and encouragement for everyone. Great read.

Thanks to B&B Communications for this review copy. ( )

From the back of the book: “The 40 Days to Better Living” series is produced by the staff of the Church Health Center in Memphis, TN…”

This edition, “Optimal Health“, helps you improve your life, bit-by-bit, using the 7-Step Model for Healthy Living. Each day, you have a Morning Reflection and an Evening Wrap-Up, as well as Daily Practices. The daily practices focus on 7 key areas: Faith, Medical, Movement, Work, Emotional, Nutrition, and Family & Friends. There’s journaling space for each day, too.

The beginning of each week has a featured “success story” of someone who has made changes in order to live a healthier life, naturally (no supplements or gimmicks).

I liked the full-color pictures on each page, and the ample journaling space. The success stories were inspiring, too!

Overall, I think this is a great little book that can be of help in keeping one focused on their goals, and it’s a good reminder to make faith an important element in your journey to healthy living.

Rated: B+ ( )