Meridian residents danced, laughed and enjoyed a fun time Saturday as B.T.B.Y. Way of Life held its Health and Wellness Expo at Uptown Meridian Mall.

Darrin Mitchell Jr., founder of B.T.B.Y. Way of Life, welcomes residents to his organization’s Health and Wellness Expo at Uptown Meridian mall Saturday. Photo by Thomas Howard

Darrin Mitchell Jr., a fitness trainer and founder of B.T.B.Y. Way of Life, said the expo highlighted a number of health and wellness speakers and vendors to help residents discover both the physical and mental benefits to exercise, as well as introduce them to some of the resources in the local community.

Mitchell said he founded B.T.B.Y., which stands for Be The Best You, after his own health journey. In 2018, he said he battled severe depression and poor mental health, and exercise helped pull him out of the slump.

“At the time, I didn’t see where it was taking me, but I’m so grateful it led me here,” he said.

Through the organization, Mitchell said he wants to encourage others, help them overcome negative thinking, become healthier and be the best versions of themselves as possible.