The Well Drop: Perimenopause Symptoms, Weight Gain, Mood & Sleep

Podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmer reflect on how a chance discovery led them to David Restrepo, the founder of Vitahealth Apothecary, an integrative pharmacy that changed their perspective on health. From natural remedies for common ailments to the importance of preventative care, David's knowledge has become an integral part of their wellness team and routine. Discover the benefits of integrative pharmacies and the power of alternative solutions as they recount personal stories, such as managing ear infections naturally and fortifying our immune systems during flu season. Learn how small changes, like reading supplement labels and choosing quality over quantity, can make a significant impact on your well-being. 

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The transformative journey of perimenopause is a profound and individual experience that encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. It is a transition marked by both physiological changes and deep introspection.

Michelle Aspinwall, a self-described medical intuitive, connects science and ancient practices to help empower women to navigate the transformative journey of perimenopause. She opens up about her personal journey, the importance of tuning into the body's whispers, and how to navigate hormonal changes with grace. Whether you're in your 40s or curious about women's health, she offers wisdom that transcends conventional approaches.

She joins podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur to share her unique approach to women's health, emphasizing the importance of tuning into your body's whispers and recognizing the individuality of every woman's experience. She explores the subtle yet significant shifts in hormones, the integration of spiritual

Topics Discussed: 

-Physical Transformations: Perimenopause, typically around the age of 40-42, initiates a series of physical changes in a woman's body. Hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, undergo fluctuations, leading to shifts in menstrual cycles

-Energetic and Spiritual Shifts: Beyond the physical, perimenopause is a time of profound energetic and spiritual shifts. Michelle emphasizes the significance of understanding the chakra system, a seven-point energy system along the spine. Around the age of 42, women transition from the third eye chakra to the crown chakra.

-Navigating the Uniqueness of Women's Health: Michelle emphasizes the uniqueness of women's health, rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach. Every woman's body speaks its own language, and the journey through perimenopause is deeply individual.

-The Intersection of Science and Spirit: Michelle's approach to perimenopause integrates both science and spirit. Drawing from her background as an integrated biohacker and spiritual intuitive, she blends scientific understanding with spiritual insights. This fusion creates a holistic healing journey

Learn more about Michelle Aspinwall

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Podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur dive into the challenges and opportunities that arise as families transition into the new school year. They share their insights on the importance of finding moments for self-care amid the whirlwind of schedules, activities, and responsibilities that often come with the back-to-school season. They discuss how simple rituals, like listening to podcasts or music while doing daily chores, can provide a sense of solace and relaxation, even in the busiest of times.

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A strong core is not just about physical health but also contributes to overall well-being. It can boost your self-confidence, improve body image, and enhance your ability to engage in physical activities you enjoy.

What is diastasis recti? Julie Tupler is a registered nurse, certified childbirth educator, and certified personal trainer. She is the pioneer behind the TuplerTechnique®, a program designed to treat diastasis recti in women, men and children. Julie breaks down the common condition and explains how it affects everyone, regardless of gender, from childhood to adulthood.

She joins podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur to share valuable insights into its connections with the pelvic floor and the importance of strengthening the transverse muscle. Her expertise shines through as she unveils the secrets behind diastasis recti and offers hope to those looking to heal their cores. How long does it take to resolve diastasis recti? Can it reopen after being closed? She addresses these questions and more, shedding light on the journey to a stronger, healthier core. 

Topics Discussed: 

Diastasis Recti Defined: Diastasis recti is a condition where the outermost abdominal muscles separate, and the connective tissue between them stretches sideways. It is not gender-specific and can affect both men and women. 

Diagnosis of Diastasis Recti: Diastasis recti can be diagnosed by checking for a separation between the abdominal muscles and the condition of the connective tissue between them. Severe cases may lead to an outie belly button or a noticeable bulge when performing certain movements. 

Connection to Pelvic Floor: Diastasis recti is connected to the pelvic floor, and addressing one often involves addressing the other. Strengthening the transverse muscle can help with both conditions. 

Exercise Safely: Certain exercises, like crunches, can worsen diastasis recti if the transverse muscle isn't engaged. Pilates and yoga can be diastasis-safe if practiced correctly. 

Treatment Duration: The time it takes to resolve diastasis recti varies depending on its severity and the commitment to a treatment program. Significant improvement can be seen in as little as six weeks, but it may take longer for complete closure. Reoccurrence: Diastasis recti can reopen, especially if activities that strain the connective tissue are continued. Maintaining good habits and core strength is crucial. Co-management: Chiropractors and healthcare professionals can co-manage diastasis recti with Julie's program, even if they don't have time for extensive training. 

Connective Tissue Health: Strengthening the connective tissue is crucial for healing diastasis recti and supporting the core.

Learn more about the Tupler Technique

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Podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur share their personal takeaways from their chat with Dr. Frank Lipman. They discuss the importance of prioritizing prebiotics over probiotics, shedding light on the often-overlooked elements of gut health. Dina's key takeaway revolves around the concept of an "active ritual," while Amber emphasizes the significance of regular health marker check-ups and the need to reevaluate imbalances.

Don’t miss Dr. Frank Lipman’s episode on The Well Drop. Listen here.

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Knowing your food, knowing your farmer, and choosing the right quality ingredients can transform your household's health and well-being. 

John Wood is a true pioneer in the grass-fed beef movement as the managing partner and fifth-generation farmer of US Wellness Meats, also known as Grassland Beef, a company founded in the mid-1990s. Grassland Beef is dedicated to providing nutrient-rich, 100% grass-fed beef, along with lamb, bison, dairy, wild-caught seafood, free-range poultry, and heritage pork. The company's mission for over two decades has been to offer nutritious, 100% grass-fed and pasture-raised meats from sustainable and environmentally friendly farms. Grassland Beef's products are easily accessible online, allowing consumers to make convenient purchases. 

John shares the remarkable story of how he transitioned from conventional grain-fed beef to championing 100% grass-fed and pasture-raised meats. He provides valuable insights into his philosophy and approach to producing quality meat products, emphasizing the importance of harvesting and packaging meats quickly within two or three days, ensuring freshness and quality.

He joins podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur for an eye-opening conversation about the environmental and health benefits of grass-fed meats, including their superior nutritional profile, rich flavor, and the science behind it all. They dive into the history of meat production, the impact of changing grazing methods, and the surprising secrets of cooking grass-fed steaks. 

Topics Discussed:

-Alan Savory and Holistic Resource Management: John Wood was inspired to venture into grass-fed beef after reading a book by Alan Savory titled "Holistic Resource Management." Alan Savory is known for his expertise in land management and reversing desertification through sustainable grazing practices. 

-Historical Changes in Land and Animal Management: Overgrazing and changes in land management, including the introduction of grain feeding, contributed to desertification and health issues in cattle. 

-Nutritional Benefits of Grass-Fed Beef: Grass-fed beef is highlighted for its nutritional benefits, including higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin E compared to grain-fed beef. Grass-fed beef is also associated with a more favorable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. 

-Importance of Younger Animals: Grass-fed meat from younger animals tends to be more tender and flavorful compared to meat from older animals. 

-Approach to Meat Production: The importance of harvesting and packaging meats quickly within two or three days, ensures freshness and quality. High-quality meat can be affordable and accessible to everyone, steering clear of exorbitant prices often associated with specialty meats.

-Meat Variety and Cost-Effective Options: There are a variety of meat cuts available, such as inside round muscles and primal ribeye, which offer cost savings when purchased in larger quantities; ground beef is often an excellent value, especially during times of increased demand, like the COVID-19 pandemic.

-Navigating Meat Labels: There is a changing terminology in meat labeling, particularly the shift from "grass-fed" to "grass-finished." Consumers need to know their food source, whether through direct communication with butchers or understanding the origins of the meat.

Learn more about Grassland Beef

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Rituals and simple practices play a significant role in promoting long-term health and overall well-being. These routines and habits are essential because they provide structure, consistency, and mindfulness to our daily lives, which can positively impact various aspects of our physical and mental health.

Lisa Zaloga, a yoga teacher with 23 years of experience, shares some of her personal and professional rituals and practices related to her wellness journey. Her journey from teaching yoga to focusing on injury recovery is an inspiring story of resilience and transformation. Discover how personal challenges shaped her approach to healing and why she co-founded Wave Wellness, a wellness studio dedicated to helping people recover, rejuvenate, and find hope. She emphasizes the importance of being relatable and understanding her clients' needs.

She joins hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur for an enlightening conversation about the science behind sound therapy, PEMF mat sessions, the benefits of lymphatic drainage, and practical tips for maintaining optimal health at home. Lisa’s goal with Wave Wellness is to create a space where clients feel optimistic about their long-term health, providing an alternative to the sometimes disheartening experience of traditional medical treatments. 

Topics Discussed: 

-Wave Best Rest: Lisa introduces "Wave Best Rest," a treatment at Wave Wellness that combines a near-infrared PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) mat with a neuroacoustic treatment to promote relaxation, focus, and improved sleep. 

-Rituals for Wellness: The significance of creating wellness rituals, such as disconnecting from technology before bedtime, can help improve sleep quality and overall well-being

-Sound Healing: The podcast discusses the benefits of sound healing, using binaural beats and ambient music to influence brain waves, reduce stress, improve focus, and aid in relaxation. 

-Lymphatic Drainage: Lisa explains the popularity of lymphatic drainage treatments, both for aesthetic reasons and overall wellness. She distinguishes between different types of lymphatic treatments and the importance of hydration for optimal lymphatic function. 

-Simple Lymphatic Health Tips: Lisa recommends staying hydrated and engaging in regular movement, even a simple walk, to promote lymphatic health. She also encourages mindfulness in daily activities, such as showering and eating, to incorporate meditation into daily life. 

-Meditation and Mindfulness: Lisa emphasizes that meditation doesn't have to be complicated or intimidating. It can be integrated into everyday activities like showering, eating, or paying attention to your body. Mindful living can enhance overall well-being. 

-Holistic Approach: The discussion underscores the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, emphasizing the importance of holistic wellness practices.

Learn more about Wave Wellness

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Your skin health and inner well-being are intimately linked. Taking care of your skin goes beyond surface-level treatments. 

Sarah Karaolides from Sarah Kay Skin Studios, a wellness-focused skin studio in New York City, shares her holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of diet in skin health, particularly highlighting the potential negative impact of dairy, gluten, refined sugar, and processed foods on the skin. Stress management is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, and Sarah advises clients to find ways to reduce stress, such as switching from coffee to tea. She suggests using natural kitchen items for skincare, including Greek yogurt, honey, oats, and turmeric, for various skin benefits. 

She began her skincare journey after training at the Aveda Institute in Manhattan and has received multiple awards, including being named Allure's Celebrity Facialist of the Year. She joins podcast hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur as they dive into the world of skincare and discuss incorporating daily skincare rituals. She reveals the importance of starting skincare and wellness conversations early, even with teenagers, to promote healthy habits. Sarah discusses her new skincare studio, where she offers various treatments, including microcurrent, ultrasound technology, LED light therapy, and more, tailored to individual client needs.

Topics Discussed: 

-Teenage Acne Management: Avoid harsh treatments and over-drying the skin when addressing teenage acne.

-At-Home Remedies: Use natural ingredients like Greek yogurt and honey for skincare masks as well as LED light therapy, and gua sha tools.

-Diet and Skin Health: Dietary choices, including dairy, gluten, and processed foods, can impact skin health. 

-Time Management: Try and find a few minutes each day for self-care rituals like gua sha massage or applying gentle skincare products. 

-Sun Protection: Stress the importance of sunscreen during outdoor activities or vacations. 

-Holistic Wellness: Emphasize holistic wellness, encompassing skincare and overall well-being. 

-Parent-Teen Conversations: Initiate conversations about self-care and wellness between parents and teenagers for better understanding and support.

-Sarah collaborates with skincare brands Environ and A-tour in her studio

Visit Sarah Kay Skin Studio in New York City

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Thoughtful choices in supplements and medication are crucial, as not all products are suitable and can have side effects. 

David Restrepo, a registered pharmacist and the owner of Vitahealth Integrative Apothecary in New York City, is renowned among physicians for his expertise in holistic health by developing comprehensive patient care plans that integrate Eastern and Western medicine approaches. He sources the cleanest and most effective nutraceuticals, supplements, and botanicals to optimize wellness. His understanding of drug interactions and potential side effects helps patients find a proper balance, compensating for depletions caused by conventional medicines and environmental factors. 

He joins hosts Amber Berger and Dina Wizmur to discuss his collaborative approach with clients, doctors, and healers. David's knowledge and commitment to patient care are revolutionizing the world of pharmacy and integrative health, bridging the gap between conventional and alternative medicine and empowering individuals to optimize their well-being.

Topics Discussed: 

-Integrative Pharmacy vs. Traditional Pharmacy

-Importance of managing your wellness when you are well

-How to decipher quality supplement brands

-Where to purchase supplements

-What probiotics to take and when 

-Why Vitamin D is an important supplement for the whole family 

-Understanding side effects on the depletions that certain medicines can create

-Absorption of supplements: Pills vs. Liposomal vs. Powders

-NeuroProtect: Helps to reestablish a healthy connection between the gut and the brain

VITAHEALTH: Discover supplements approved by David Restrepo and his team.

VIOME: Learn about your gut health from the comfort of home with VIOME

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The human body needs food for fuel, nourishment and sustaining life itself. But food is so much more than a biological necessity. It brings comfort, helps us bond and build connections, share experiences and create memories. That’s why it’s important to instill a positive relationship with food not only for yourself but your entire family. Deena Barselah is a wellness coach who joins podcast host Dina Wizmur in an open conversation about how to approach food mindfully. She provides tips for simplifying how you’re eating and creating an atmosphere that is friendly and approachable when dining. 

Topics Discussed:

-Diet Culture: 80s vs. Present Day 

-Food and mood: How foods affect how you feel

-Building a healthy relationship with food for you and your family

-Food environment and ambiance matters

-Engage your children in the food making process

-Preparing food vs. eating food 

Learn more about Deena Barselah's practice here

Follow @thewelldrop @deenabarselah

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