Wildly Optimized Wellness Podcast

Attention, adventurers! The Wildly Optimized Wellness Podcast is taking a short break to recharge. We'll be back with even more exciting content. In the meantime, catch up on episodes and get ready for their triumphant return! See you outside!

Join us for a special replay of the captivating episode of the GabLab Podcast as Toréa dove into a thought-provoking conversation with Michael Wilson. In this fun interview, we explore the intersection of chronic illness and autoimmune disorders, while delving into unexpected territories such as flying jets and the profound learnings aviation can bring to healing..Discover firsthand what transformation truly means as we unravel the fascinating journey & unique perspective on personal growth that Torea has developed over the years.. Brace yourself for an enlightening discussion on the use of psychedelics in both transformation and wellness, as she shares her experiences and insights on this intriguing topic.Whether you're seeking inspiration, knowledge, or a fresh perspective, this episode promises to offer a profound exploration of chronic illness, the pursuit of transformation, and the potential of psychedelics in shaping our well-being. Tune in now to the replay of the GabLab Podcast. Timestamps00:00 Special Replay: Toréa on GabLab04:31 Toréa's Professional Journey11:24 What is Hashimoto's and why is it a common issue among women.18:21 The path of healing for people with Hashimoto's26:31 Neuro Linguistic Programming31:53 Mental Health should be your number one priority38:18 Trust in your own healing ability43:56 Psychedelics and Quantum Healing53:48 Putting the rubber to the road and putting things into action1:02:19 Does Psilocybin Increase Neuroplasticity?1:07:59 Toréa's awesome retreats1:16:03 ATLA Water filtration system1:19:11 Pandemic and the stagnant pond1:42:03 Growing up with mental illness in the family1:46:36 The Wellness Curiosity Collective1:54:17 The Transformation AcademyAnd if you enjoyed this, be sure to keep an ear out over the next two weeks for the rest of our Elements series: water and fire! Resources MentionedConnect with MichaelGabLab Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/6yC8OmbDuFcdsASWgSyxqj?si=00e4f486079e4ec6Michael's Social Links:@gablab.show@harmony_acres@all_things_amanitaMichael's websites:www.allthingsamanita.comwww.harmonyacresfarms.orgConnect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://torea.co/PremiumSubmit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

Long Covid is on the rise, yet most people are still left struggling to recover.Is it even possible??In this week's episode, Evie and Toréa had the opportunity to interview Halina Kowalski to dive into the details of how she recovered from Long Covid! Listen in on this unique approach that Halina used to put her symptoms into remission. Her background as a mental health clinical researcher primed her ability to research and discover the latest scientists and doctors looking at Long Covid. Discover her unique trifecta approach combining precision medicine, functional medicine and the use of contrast therapy to resolve her long illness.Let's begin! About Halina KowalskiHalina Kowalski is a mental health professional & clinical researcher with an insatiable thirst for learning ancient healing methods and practices from all cultures and peoples. Her studies led me down a path and quest to learn the traditional healing methods of her own Latvian ancestry. She discovered, by no coincidence, she had already been deeply drawn to the Latvian-Baltic tradition of sauna (pirts) that incorporates wild foraged plants and herbs into the heat and steam ritual of sacred mind/body/spirit healing. Her role as a researcher allowed her to piece together a combination of precision medicine, functional medicine and these ancient healing practices to place her own long covid into remission.Timestamps00:00 Overcoming Long Covid with a Trifecta Approach05:43 Helina's Long Covid journey13:15 incellDx by Dr. Bruce Patterson15:38 The Immune Signature of Long-Haul Covid17:25 The Theory on Spike Protein17:55 Monocytes that evade senolysis (cell death) 23:17 Telemedicine with covidlonghaulers.com26:25 Incorporating functional medicine into the healing process31:24 Effects of Cold Exposure against Covid-1937:47 Where to find Helina and gathersaunahouse.comResources MentionedDr Bruce Patterson https://www.ifm.org/about/profile/bruce-patterson-md/incellDx https://incelldx.com/Covid Long Haulers https://www.covidlonghaulers.com/homeMaraviroc and Long Covid https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9944830/Connect with Halina @ Gather Website: https://www.gathersaunahouse.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/gather_saunahouseConnect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community:...

We're always breathing, so what's the big deal, right?Should you be aware of how you are breathing?In this week's episode, Evie and Toréa have the pleasure of talking about functional breathing with Dr. Andy Sabatier of Academy West Performance. For something we do over 10,000 times in a day, you'd think that we were all breathing with correct form! Shockingly, most of us are not using our anatomy in the way it was designed. In this episode you will learn what parts of our anatomy are most important for functional breathing and why this is so important for your health, for your athletic performance and for longevity.Let's dig in! Timestamps00:00 Intro01:09 Wellness Curiosity Collective02:54 Breathing is the basis for all pathology08:29 Mechanics of breathing11:28 The chemical and emotional side of breathing 20:51 Breathing as a spiritual activity23:03 How breathing is one of the only things that can keep us present27:20 Breathing is a movement, not a practice31:16 Difference between functional and dysfunctional breathing34:48 Is mouth tape for everyone?41:01 Breathing training for athletes45:34 Where to find more from Dr Andy SabatierAnd if you enjoyed this, Dr Andy Sabatier is doing a live workshop next week on the Wellness Curiosity Collective. If you want to experience this work first hand then grab a ticket! https://torea.co/breathingResources MentionedWant even more breathwork goodness? Catch up on Season 3, Episode 5: Breathwork: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s3e5 Connect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://torea.co/PremiumSubmit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

Okay what is with all these red light devices you see everywhere? There's even one's you can get to do facials with!Are they really worth it?In this week's episode we talk with Kyle Vonderharr of Midwest Red Light Therapy to dive into the real deal with red lights. Kyle shares with us what he has seen with his customers and family members and we talk about practical applications of using red light devices and when to use them!Come on over to the red side!Timestamps00:00: Intro and Wellness Curiosity Collective03:14 Where Kyle's interest in red light therapy began06:53 Importance of flicker rates and why to avoid flicker11:24 When is the best time to use a red light device?15:59 Sunscreen, sunburns and red light devices24:16 How long to see results29:45 Benefits for fatigue and eye strain36:57 Where to find more information about Midwest Red Light TherapyResources MentionedWant some of the basics of Red Light Therapy? Catch up on the Health In Motion podcast episode 39 https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/39-red-light-therapy/id1548284749?i=1000543348018Jack Kruse podcast episode on Light and the Gut Microbiome https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-jack-kruse-on-light-and-the-microbiome/id1433882512?i=1000431593011Connect with Kyle VonderharrWebsite: https://midwestredlighttherapy.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/midwestredlighttherapyConnect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://torea.co/PremiumSubmit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

Is our lighting in our homes changing our biology?Should you care?In this week's episode, we are talking specifically about blue light wavelength exposure in the evenings can be making changes in your biology. This light has an effect on your hormones, your fascia, neurotransmitters and your nervous system and usually not in a good way if the exposure is after the sun goes down. So what can you do? Well this week we talk about how you can reduce blue light from your mobile screens, block it with blue & green light blocking glasses and use lightbulbs specifically made without those kinds of wavelengths for night time.Let's shine a light on it shall we?And if you are wanting more episodes of the Wildly Optimized Wellness Podcast, we now have new ways to access the premium podcast that has more episodes, deeper & behind the scenes conversations at the Wellness Curiosity Collective. https://torearodriguez.com/wccTimestamps00:00 The Best Light Wavelengths for Health03:48 The role of light in the body05:28 What to do when the sun goes down09:44 Blue light blocking glasses11:54 Red lights for the home15:27 Changing the color of your phone screen17:55 Blue light after 11pm linked to depression21:22 Controlling screen time easily25:22 Quantum biology and light cues28:44 Show us your 4 eyes! Resources MentionedWant even more circadian rhythm goodness? Catch up on Season 1, Episode 3: Circadian Rhythm & Health https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s1e3 or Season 2, Episode 7: Full Spectrum Light https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s2e7Midwest Redlight Therapy https://midwestredlighttherapy.com/BonCharge https://boncharge.comConnect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://torea.co/PremiumSubmit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

Ever wonder what exactly is raw chocolate? Is it better?In this week's episode we are exploring the popular topic of chocolate even further by talking with founder and maker of Mythical Chocolate, Jeff Stratman. We cover the differences between raw chocolate & traditional tempered processes and how the sourcing differs when producing raw chocolates. We even dive into some of the technical aspects of making cacao from bean to bar. So if craft chocolate is something new, or you are a long-time connoisseur there's a lot to learn from Jeff in this episode!And if you enjoy this, be sure to tune in to Part 2 with Jeff Stratman talking about ceremonial cacao - only available on the Wildly Optimized Wellness Premium podcast, which is one of the many benefits you receive when you become an Optimized Wellness Community member! You can find the link to join in the show notes!Timestamps00:00 The raw truth of chocolate01:27 Mythical Chocolate's passion origins04:12 How Mythical started sourcing cacao in the big world of chocolate06:58 Ethics of growing cacao11:24 Importance and intricacies of roasting15:56 Grinding vs conching the beans18:27 What kinds of chocolate Mythical Chocolate produces26:28 What is tempering vs rawResources MentionedWant even more chocolate goodness? Catch up on Season 4, Episode 3: Choosing Better Chocolate https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s4e3Connect with Mythical ChocolateWebsite https://mythicalchocolate.com/ use code TOREA for -10% on your first orderInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mythicalchocolate/Connect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://torea.co/PremiumSubmit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

When you can't move the way that you want to—be it from neuropathy, old injuries, etc.—it doesn't just affect you physically. It affects you emotionally as well. And traditional treatments often don't work that well even on the physical side of things.That's why we're so excited to bring you this conversation today and share with you some products that are changing lives around the world by using texture to help people to feel their feet again. In this episode, we're joined by the lovely Dr. Emily Splichal, a functional podiatrist who founded a phenomenal company called Naboso. She and her company have created multiple products that are revolutionizing the treatment of neuropathies and foot health in general.We're diving into why this is so important (even if you don't suffer from a neurological medical condition!), how Dr. Emily's work is different, and so many amazing recommendations for you to improve your foot health no matter where you're starting from.Let's dive in!In This Episode:How Dr. Emily's methodology differs from traditional podiatry and why it's so important (2:18)The various chronic neurological conditions which can benefit from Naboso's products (6:38)Toréa and Dr. Emily break down the power of touch and the plasticity of our nervous systems (10:44)The fascinating science behind why the Naboso ball and products work (12:26)How Dr. Emily's products can help you in your day to day, even if you don't suffer from a neuropathy (15:21)She shares her thoughts on how you can experience different textures in nature and the amazing benefits of it (17:24)Dr. Emily's favorite tips for you if you live and work in a concrete jungle (19:45)Where to start if you're interested in Naboso's products (23:07)One of the #1 contributors to persistent plantar fasciitis cycles and how to stop them (27:12)How Naboso can also help with children and adults with sensory needs like ADHD and autism (30:51)The powerful ways these products can also be used when doing emotional release work (31:30)Resources Mentioned:Naboso's websiteFollow Naboso on InstagramDr. Emily's WebsiteFollow Dr. Emily on InstagramGet your copy of Dr. Emily's book, Barefoot Strong: Unlock the Secrets to MovementToréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community Submit your question for the show!

Water, it's everywhere. And because it's everywhere, we often don't pay attention to the importance of it.Have you stopped to recognize all the way's water supports us as human beings?In this week's episode we are discussing the third element in the series and talking all things water! We discuss so much more beyond its essentialness for life on the planet. How water shapes the world we live in, how it can be both beneficial and harmful, and how water helps us with our emotions. Whatever your experience with water, whether you love it so much you dance in the rain, or you only think about it when you turn on the tap, let's explore the deeper side of water together.Ready to dive in? ;-)In This Episode: 00:00 Element Series: Water, Beyond the Tap01:35 What attracts Evie & Toréa to water05:59 The power of water08:20 Being present to water's role in nature12:10 Importance of filtering water13:23 Water's essential role in every cell16:27 Differences between water temperatures18:55 How salt water supports the body21:47 Experience water at the Wilderness Reset RetreatAnd if you enjoyed this, be sure to be on the lookout for our last of the series: Fire Resources MentionedWant even more water goodness? Catch up on Season 2, Episode 1: Cold Immersion Therapy - https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s2e1Atla Water Filtration & Restructuring systems. Save -$75 with code TOREA https://torea.co/atlaTorea's IG Reel installing her Atla system https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpNprMNjTK-/Join us at the Wilderness Reset Retreat 18-22 October https://www.torearodriguez.com/wrrConnect with ToréaWebsite: https://www.torearodriguez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/Connect with EvieWebsite: https://holisticallyrestored.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://torea.co/PremiumSubmit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

Are you connecting to the earth every day or getting outside? Should you be?In this week's episode, we're kicking off our new Element series and diving into all things Earth! We're going over why it's important to connect with nature, easy ways to start, and some of the benefits you can expect from stepping outside, touching the ground, and getting a little dirty (it washes off, we promise!) Whatever your experience so far has been with the outdoors, whether you grew up on a farm or find yourself stuck in a concrete jungle, it's never too late to get out there! So, let's dig in!In This Episode:Podcast update & how to sign up for more content! (1:10)Earth's connection to health & wellness (2:43)Why we focus on baseline habits (7:34)Getting children outside to build up their immune system - but how? (9:53)Building more connection through regenerative farming at home (11:55)A message for the indoor people & Evie's journey to being a Holistic Boujee (13:30)Accessing nature in concrete jungles - how and why it's important (16:09)Details about our retreats in Greece, Oregon, & Ohio: Our inspiration & what to expect (18:13)How nature helps process emotions (22:28)Connecting with Earth at home: Helpful tips & a challenge for you! (23:48)And if you enjoyed this, be sure to check back in for future episodes within the Element series: Air, water, and fire coming up! Two of these episodes will be premium episodes for those within our Optimized Wellness Community, so be sure to join! Resources Mentioned:Join the Optimized Wellness Community to access our premium content!Catch up on Season 2, Episode 2 on GroundingListen to Season 4, Episode 9 on Regenerative Farming & SupplementationToréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Submit your question for the show!

Should you be micro or macrodosing? And what's the difference between the two? Are there any benefits?Today, we're so pleased to be joined by two experts from Mycology Psychology, Dr. Victoria Sterkin & Rome Shadanloo, who are here to answer these questions and more! If you're curious about psilocybin treatments, if you want to know more about how medicinal mushrooms can help you, or if you just want to know what the latest research is saying about mycology, this episode is for you! There's so much to explore in the world of fungi, so let's get started! And if you enjoy this, be sure to tune in to Part 2 with Dr. Victoria Sterkin & Rome Shadanloo, only available for Optimized Wellness Community members! In This Episode:Victoria & Rome's background with Mycology Psychology (1:37)The difference between functional & medicinal mushrooms (6:52) Connection between psychedelic mushrooms & autoimmune disorders (7:35)Where scientific studies fall short (12:07)How mushrooms allow for a necessary pause & why we hide behind illness (14:18)How mushrooms deepen our connection to the natural world (18:13) What is microdosing v. macrodosing? (24:09) The research on psilocybin: What about Default Mode Network? (30:36) Changes they've seen in patients with OCD, deep grief, & substance abuse (34:52) Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Mycology Psychology & connect with their practitionersWork with Toréa at Mycology PsychologyCatch up on S4E2 Harness the Power of MycologyCatch up on S1E5 Secondary GainMichael Pollan's bookRobin Carhart Harris' researchToréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community Submit your question for the show!

Show notesTrends come and go, even in the wellness world! And today, we're tackling all the latest trends. Come find out what's IN and what's OUT! Is cold plunging still cool? What about Hot Yoga and HIIT? Should you still be taking those generic multivitamins? Come find out our HOT take on these trendy topics and more! PLUS, we have some BIG, exciting changes coming to the Wildly Optimized Wellness Podcast, so don't miss out on this fun + informational episode!In This Episode:Changes coming to the WOW Podcast (1:08)Cold exposure: IN or OUT? + Is it just for athletes? (2:28)Over-exercising: IN or OUT + Its effect on adrenals (4:04)Functional mushrooms: IN or OUT? + What's to come with psilocybin! (6:41)Multivitamins: IN or OUT? + What alternatives are gaining traction? (9:11)IV Therapy: IN or OUT? + Is it overpriced? (11:09)Rest & recovery: IN or OUT? + Our take on hustle culture (14:24)Elimination diets: IN or OUT? + What we really think about food sensitivity tests (17:32)Biometric gadgets: IN or OUT? + What's your pee telling you? (20:13)Wellness retreats: They're totally IN! So, find out how you can join us! (25:20)Resources Mentioned:Free Nervous System Reset Challenge starts 16 January. Use code WOLF to get 1 month of FREE access to the Optimized Wellness Community which is where the NSR takes place. Gem Multivitamin SupplementAthletic Greens Withings at-home urinalysisToréa's RetreatsEvie's RetreatsS2E1: Cold Exposure S4E2: How to Harness the Power of MycologyToréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community Submit your question for the show!

Show notesDo you know where your food comes from or how it's grown? What about your supplements? Should you even care? In today's episode, we're diving into supplements, nutrients, and taking a look at regenerative farming. We'll get into what it is and why it matters and we're joined by two experts, Ret Taylor and Vida Chavez-Garcia. Ret co-founded Ned, a supplement company creating and offering simple and effective natural remedies for common ailments. At Ned, they're keeping things purely simple, on purpose. So, come find out if you should take supplements, why we should ALL care about regenerative farming, and why your bowl of greens has a fraction of the nutrients it used to. In This Episode:Ret's inspiration for creating Ned (1:41)How Vida got involved in Ned & her background (5:38)What is regenerative farming? (9:03) Why the land needs rest, food, and water just like we do (11:34)The dramatic drop of nutrient density in our food (16:20)America's lack of magnesium (17:29)Regenerative farming in terms of supplements & what we put ON our body (19:05) The potency difference in Ned's products (19:52)What can the Wellness industry do to help to shift focus to quality over quantity? (23:30)How you can know a company is practicing regenerative farming (26:00)What's next for Ned? (32:21)Toréa's favorite Ned products (36:09)Resources Mentioned:Nervous System Reset Challenge (starts 16 Jan) Use code WOLF for free access.Deep Transformation Enrollment closes 27 JanuaryWilderness Reset Retreat Waitlist Oct 18-22 Shop Ned products & learn more onlineFollow Ned on InstagramShop One Degree Organic Oats & FoodsToréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community Submit your question for the show!

Show notesHappy New Year friends!We're so excited to welcome you back to the Wildly Optimized Wellness podcast and we're starting off 2023 with compassion. Compassion for ourselves!This week we're joined by Jessica Brown. She's a clinical nutritionist with over 25 years of experience, a Self-Compassion teacher, and author of The Loving Diet, a mind-body book supporting those with autoimmune disease. Jessica's helped thousands of people heal physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spirituality, and she's here to offer help to YOU. If you're in the depths of despair in your healthcare journey, if you struggle with disordered eating, or if you just find it hard to be kind to yourself (so many of us do!), then you'll want to listen in. Come find out why Jessica states ‘love is the medicine and your heart is the pharmacy'!In This Episode:Jessica's background with self-compassion personally & professionally (1:35)The differences between compassion, empathy, & sympathy (2:58)Empathic fatigue (5:20)The 3 components of self compassion (6:54)Abundance mindset v. lack mindset in your healthcare journey (8:52)The link between self compassion and the immune system (10:56)What is mindful eating? What is intuitive eating? (13:26) Jessica's clinical experience with self-compassion (19:17) Torea's experience with orthorexia & food paranoia (22:11)Her advice for those struggling with disordered eating (24:18)How YOU can work with Jessica (25:25)Resources Mentioned:Free Nervous System Reset Challenge starts 16 January. Use code WOLF to get 1 month of FREE access to the Optimized Wellness Community which is where the NSR takes place. Deep Transformation enrollment is OPEN! We start on 30 January and we'd love to have you! Jessica's WebsiteFollow Jessica on InstagramPurchase Jessica's book, The Loving Diet Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community Submit your question for the show!

Show notes   What are the benefits of the cold plunge? And should you get into it?  How do you handle gatherings when you're the only “healthy” one? And how can you adapt your wellness habits when it's cold and dark out all winter long?   This is just a taste of the topics we're getting into on today's Q&A episode. We recorded live from our Holistic Reset Retreat in Hocking Hills, Ohio and took some questions from the group. We weren't sure where it would lead or what topics would come up, but, WOW did they ask some great questions! Plus, if you've ever wondered what a wellness retreat would be like or if you would even “fit in” at one, now's your chance for a look behind the scenes! But, spoiler alert! If you want to go to one, then you belong! Listen in and we'll tell you why.    In this episode:   Our recommendations for staying on track through the holiday season (4:09) Tips for adjusting your wellness habits to winter weather (7:07) A holiday visualization exercise & questions to ask yourself BEFORE going to your event (8:21) Benefits of cold plunging (13:37) How long to cold plunge before it becomes detrimental (18:11) A first timer's cold plunge experience (21:16) Our advice for those who feel they won't “fit in” with a wellness retreat (25:32) The big WHY behind our retreats & our work (30:07) Why showing up is already a success (34:44) Retreat apprehensions related to needing alone time (36:19) Evie's journey to finding her people & the value of community (42:38)   Stay tuned for more information on upcoming events in 2023!   Resources Mentioned: Toréa's Website  Follow Toréa on Instagram   Evie's Website  Follow Evie on Instagram   Join the Optimized Wellness Community   Submit your question for the show!  

Show notes   Are you thinking about adding a new habit into your life?    Maybe you want to adopt a daily morning walk, add in more gym time, eat more protein, or volunteer at your local non-profit. Great! These are wonderful additions to your life.    BUT, have you carved out the time and energy to do it? Have you made space to take on that new habit or commitment?    Because we're here to tell you that if you haven't, it likely won't stick around for long, or it will and your relaxation, your rest, and your energy will suffer. So often we're told to just keep adding on, but something has to give right?    So what can you do to make space? What steps can you take to ensure that your new healthy habits that you WANT to take on, will stick around along with your mental health, your energy, and your down time? We're getting into it today, and we hope you join the conversation around how to best step into your new identity!    In This Episode:   The cost of our high productivity culture (2:23) The pitfalls of only adding commitments & habits (2:57) New morning routine (4:41) Tired of saying Yes to everything (6:01) Upsetting the equilibrium in our lives (7:28) Importance of sleep (9:46) Macros: It's not just about adding more protein (12:34) What Evie has sacrificed for more rest this season (16:04) There can be a time for Netflix (19:43) Running yourself ragged (24:37) The power of choice era we live in (25:13)   Resources Mentioned: Shop the Wellness Optimizing Journal   Toréa's Website  Follow Toréa on Instagram   Evie's Website  Follow Evie on Instagram   Join the Optimized Wellness Community   Submit your question for the show!

Show notes:   Getting mocked for going gluten-free?  Feeling pressured to go back for seconds?  Drinking more than you planned for the sake of fitting in or not missing out?    We get it! Sticking with new habits around the holidays can be TOUGH. Maybe you're around family that doesn't get it or isn't supportive or maybe it's simply that the excess of parties, sweets, and drinks is overwhelming.    So, what can you do about it to stay in alignment? What steps can you take to make sure this holiday season leaves you feeling good about your choices and the changes you're making towards wellness? This isn't about shame or guilt. It's really an opportunity!   On today's episode we're diving deep into behavior changes, identity, and habits - especially around the holiday season! We're sharing our own experiences with new habits during the holidays, some insight into why your changes may feel uncomfortable right now, and offering tips you can take with you on your way to celebrating, because you CAN make choices that feel good for YOU and still have FUN!    In This Episode:   The relationship between identity & habits (2:18) Examples of new habits we've taken on this holiday season (3:50) Confusion of building new habits v. letting go of old ones (7:11) Why your changes make others uncomfortable (& even yourself!) (9:21) Choosing gratitude & empowerment over discomfort (13:49) Applying self-compassion: What it looks like & why (15:04) What if you revert back to your old self? (18:52) Old habits we're trying to ditch this holiday season (19:54) Creating intention with eating, drinking, & activities (25:04) Why social settings dictate behavior (26:18) Gift of Curiosity (27:46)   We'd love to hear what boundaries and what habits you are instilling or getting rid of this holiday season! We're here to cheer you on! Resources Mentioned: Shop the Wellness Optimizing Journal Toréa's Website  Follow Toréa on Instagram   Evie's Website  Follow Evie on Instagram   Join the Optimized Wellness Community   Submit your question for the show!

Show notes   Are you too tired to run those errands when it's dark out? Winter tomatoes got you down? You're not alone!    As we find ourselves shifting into winter, what are the steps we can take to boost our wellness? We all know there are four seasons and in some areas that means changes and in others, that sun will still shine every day, but why does it even matter what season it is? Should that affect our activities, our food, or our rest? And if so, how?    Our culture often pressures us into a go, go, go mindset year round, but that might be impacting your circadian rhythm or your hormone balance, so what can you do about it?    Some people are required to work 8 to 5 no matter the season, so what then?    Are there still steps you can take to surrender to the seasonality of life, of nature, and your body to live with more balance, more wholeness, and more wellness? We're getting into ALL of this today! So don't sleep on this one!    In This Episode:   Thinking through seasons to impact your wellness (2:48) Culture's effect on circadian rhythms & hormone balance (3:10) What Evie's observed in herself regarding seasonality (3:35) How light affects eating habits: Toréa's lightbulb moment (7:27) Connecting seasonality to our bodies (9:14) Adjusting to seasonality for those working without flexibility (11:31) Holiday burnout (11:50) Food's seasonality (12:41) Optimizing the micronutrients of food (13:14) How to know what food is in season(16:48) The Ayurvedic roots of seasonality (17:59) Food preservation & fermentation as a method for optimizing on seasonality (19:02)   Resources Mentioned:   Listen to our episode that discusses Seasonal Affective Disorder here: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s1e3 Listen to the episode on Full Spectrum Light here: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s2e7   Toréa's Website  Follow Toréa on Instagram   Evie's Website  Follow Evie on Instagram   Join the Optimized Wellness Community   Submit your question for the show!

Show notes   Are you a chocolate lover? Have you gone crazy for cacao? Then, this episode is for you!    We're diving into all things chocolate, all things cacao. Is there a difference? We'll let you know!    This might be one of our favorite topics of all time, plus with the holidays coming up, chocolate is on the mind, right? But, if you're trying to make better wellness decisions, cut back on the sugar, or support small, local, and ethical businesses, then it's time to get educated and choose wiser. Thankfully, there are better alternatives and we're breaking it down for you so you're armed with tips and tricks on how to find and eat better-for-you chocolate. It's true! The good stuff offers health benefits, so there's no time to waste! Let's dig in!   In This Episode:   Health benefits of cacao (2:55) One clue to getting better chocolate (3:41) Magnesium content in chocolate (3:52) Benefits of magnesium (5:06) Theobromine as a primary stimulant in chocolate (6:40) The world of craft chocolate (10:11) Ingredients to look for in chocolate (15:43) Brands to look for (17:27) Inclusion bars v purest bars v confections (24:16) What I recommend for people looking to cut down or avoid sugar (25:45) A recipe for period hot chocolate (26:40) Bulletproof cacao recipe (28:20)   Resources Mentioned:   Check out Bar and Cocoa for all the brand names mentioned: https://torea.co/Cacao   Toréa's Website  Follow Toréa on Instagram   Evie's Website  Follow Evie on Instagram   Join the Optimized Wellness Community   Submit your question for the show!

Are you ready to love fungi?    It's just a matter of time after listening to our amazing guest, Willis Mitchell! Willis brings his 14 years of experience within the holistic wellness spectrum to the show today to discuss all things fungi. If you've ever wondered the best way to eat mushrooms, what the difference is between ALL the varieties, or what's up with psilocybin, you won't want to miss today's episode. Willis is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to teaching us how we can start to integrate the healing properties within fungi into our daily lives. Plus, he's sharing all the details on his business, The Loving Fungi: how it started (5 months alone in the wilderness??), how it's going, and where you can find his adaptogenic products. Come nerd out with us in this fun fungi discussion!     In This Episode:   Willis' background (2:38) When mushrooms became medicine for Willis (4:09) Fungi as Herpes treatment (4:43) What is a functional mushroom? (11:45) The cancer-fighting properties of Turkey Tail & Oyster mushrooms (13:00) Performance enhancing  v. immune system building (15:49) Wild foraging v. cultivation farms v. home grown (20:25) Loving Fungi history and product offering (28:51) What we've tried and liked from Loving Fungi (31:00) What is Psilocybin? (37:07) Psilocybin microdosing v. macrodosing (38:36) How to find your own practitioner to work with (45:27) Future of fungi in the U.S. (48:00)   Resources Mentioned: Willis' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelovingfungi/?hl=en Willis' Website: http://thelovingfungi.com Fantastic Fungi book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Fantastic-Fungi/Louie-Schwartzberg/Fantastic-Fungi/9781683837046 Michael Pollan's Netflix series: https://www.netflix.com/title/80229847 Michael Pollan's Book, How to Change Your Mind https://michaelpollan.com/books/how-to-change-your-mind/   Shop the Wellness Optimizing Journal Toréa's Website  Follow Toréa on Instagram   Evie's Website  Follow Evie on Instagram   Join the Optimized Wellness Community     If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here  

Are you wanting to journal but don't know where to start? Maybe you've heard about the benefits of taking some time each day to reflect on how you're feeling and what's happened or what goals you've come up with for yourself, but putting pen to paper is JUST TOO HARD.    Well friends, today we're introducing you to the Wellness Optimizing Journal. Toréa is the genius behind this journal and she's giving all of us a behind-the-scenes look into why she created it, how it's structured, and ALL the benefits you can expect from working through it. This isn't a fitness tracker. It's not about counting macros. It's a tool for self-discovery! The Wellness Optimizing Journal will walk you through each aspect of your life: the spiritual, the emotional, the biological, and the mental. If you're wanting to develop new habits that will stick around or desiring a deeper connection to yourself as whole, look no further, we've got you covered!    TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 The Wellness Optimizing Journal 3:30 The tool that inspired Toréa to create this journal 3:53 The 13 week structure  6:26 The self-assessment aspect within the journal  7:23 The vision setting aspect within the journal  11:02 How to habit stack 15:30 How the journal closes 16:06 Why celebrating successes matters  19:17 Wellness v. health: What's the difference?  19:37 Addressing whole self, not just one part 20:30 How to give it as a gift 22:33 Vulnerability time: How it's helped Toréa  25:49 The feedback we've gotten so far  28:15 Optimized Wellness Community    Resources Mentioned:    Shop the Wellness Optimizing Journal: https://www.torearodriguez.com/the-journal Presence episode with MAK: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s2e4   Connect with Toréa: Website: https://www.torearodriguez.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torearodriguez/   Connect with Evie: Website: https://holisticallyrestored.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallyrestored/   Join the Optimized Wellness Community: https://login.circle.so/checkout/optimized-wellness-membership?request_host=community.torearodriguez.com   Submit a Question for the Show: https://www.torearodriguez.com/podcast-question

Episode Summary Most people we work with are deficient in basic electrolytes. Evie and I are often including electrolyte supplements in our client protocols. And one of our favorite electrolytes is called LMNT. Robb Wolf is a former research biochemist and 2X New York Times/Wall Street Journal Best-selling author of The Paleo Solution and Wired To Eat. And today, you too can learn from the co-founder himself about why electrolytes are so vitally important to health and wellness. In This Episode: Robb's pickle juice epiphany (03:38) How sodium intake naturally plummets (05:59) Insulin and sodium relationship (06:25) LMNT started as a free recipe (07:06) Sodium intake anxiety (08:54) Cardiovascular disease and hypertension (10:45) Low sodium drives osteoporosis (11:54) Sodium's importance for cellular health and POTS (14:38) Electrolytes and breastfeeding (16:30) Is there a maximum dose of LMNT? (18:58) Sweet or salty taste to LMNT can indicate electrolyte balance (24:00)Electrolytes and migraines (24:43) Electrolytes dramatically improve HRV (28:16) Role of electrolytes in preventing altitude sickness (29:36) Hydration isn't water (30:21) Are we drinking too many fluids in a day? (35:17) Does sodium make your hands swell? (37:35) Consuming LMNT at different concentrations (38:08) Spearfishing as the ultimate outdoor reset? (40:58)   For full show notes and resources: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s3e10

Episode Summary In health, and in life we often face internal conflict. But how do you resolve that conflict in a way that not only provides solutions, but also nurtures your nervous system and healing capacity? This internal conflict can be related to health, but as you will hear, it quickly can show up in other areas, like career move decisions, relationships, etc. This week Evie and Toréa talk through a process called Parts Integration so you can gain insight into the power of this kind of coaching. In This Episode: How does Identity Fragmentation occur? (01:15) Language cues of fragmentation (02:15) Evie's experience with Parts Integration (03:40) Discovering the common purpose (05:30) Using journaling for parts integration (08:48) Areas in health where we see fragmentation (12:34) Fragmentation shows up in decision making (15:17) Career decisions (18:40) The temporary nature of experience (19:59) The biological impact of fragmentation (21:18)   For full show notes and resources: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s3e9

Episode Summary Traditionally we gain insight to our glucose levels through standard bloodwork or by using a glucometer and lancelet to poke a finger multiple times each day. In recent years, Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have been available to diabetes patients and now companies like Nutrisense, make CGMs more widely available. For those looking to fine tune their health, their hormones, their metabolism a CGM can be a hugely valuable tool. This week, Toréa and Evie talk with Catherine Staffieri, a Dietician at Nutrisense to learn more about this cool biometric technology. In This Episode: About Nutrisense as a company (02:19) Working with a dietician (03:01) Glucose and Insulin imbalances (04:40) Ease of the CGM (06:29) Difference of fingerstick vs CGM (08:21) Big glucose influencers that are NOT food (11:45) Imbalanced glucose leads to other hormone imbalances (12:46) Discover more data than just glucose (16:29) Top 3 ways to balance blood sugar (21:03) Avoiding disordered eating triggers of tracking food (24:34) Surprising foods that don't create blood sugar spiks (27:47) For full show notes and resources: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s3e8

Episode Summary It used to be that medical doctors had the time to educate and inform patients of treatment options & side effects. These days, however, most doctors are limited to just a few short minutes and that all important information is getting skipped and never delivered. As a result, practitioners like Evie & Torea are left to pick up the pieces. Listen in to learn what this looks like and how to ask questions differently so that you get all the information you need to make your own health choices!   In This Episode: Quick to prescribe mentality (02:05) Being your own best advocate (03:06) Dealing with conflicting information (04:10) Conventional vs Functional approaches (05:10) The problems with allopathic approaches (07:40) Lack of education to patients (10:19) LImitations of the medical system (12:23) You know your body best (14:47) Lack of informed consent is epidemic (15:47) Asking different questions to get more informed consent (19:23) Rare side effects are often left out of consent conversations (21:00) Dealing with counterintuitive suggestions (25:46) Practitioner requests are suggestions, not commands (27:51) The power of Why (28:38)   For full show notes and resources: https://www.torearodriguez.com/wowpodcast/s3e7

Episode Summary Oral health is typically the last stop on people's list when trying to correct their health. Really it should be at the beginning, and today we learn why from Dr Kelly Blodgett DDS. Listen in on all the wonderful topics regarding oral care, past oral care that might have failed, and preventative care from one of the world's leading experts on holistic and biological dentistry.   In This Episode: Biological or holistic dentistry defined [01:47] Oral school vs medical school [04:59] Hidden infections [05:59] 25 million root canals per year [06:35] How root canals fail biologically [09:07] Energy testing methods [11:23] Neural therapy as a diagnostic tool [12:45] Symptoms tied to poor oral health [13:10] Until the mouth is considered, most people are going to struggle [17:24] Disadvantages to keeping dead teeth [20:23] Lack of informed consent in dental industry [21:18] The Dental Diet book [24:24] The food we eat and oral health [26:15] Is mouthwash, good for you [28:05] Oil pulling, yay or nay? [28:29] Does being outside benefit your oral health [30:15] Red light therapy in a dental office [31:33]   Resources Mentioned: Dr Blodgett on Instagram Dr Blodgett's website Novothor red light bed Dental Diet book by Dr Steven Lin DNA Connexions Oral DNA Tests Deep Transformation program enrollment is open! Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Something we do so subconsciously has a huge impact on health. Breathing. Most of us don't think about it and it happens automatically. But when you start to consciously think and intentionally change the way you are breathing, it can really change your physiology. Listen in as Evie and Toréa share their favorite breathwork techniques.   In This Episode: Respiration vs breathing [02:12] Three phases of breathing [03:11] Ribcage importance [05:31] Panic attacks & breath [09:18] Noses are for breathing [10:46] Apnea Breathing [13:10] Breath and parasympathetic nervous system [19:28] Breath to move emotions [21:03] How to integrate breathwork [26:16] Nervous system activation ratios [28:48]   Resources Mentioned: Breath book by James Nestor BOLT Test CO2 Tolerance Test Get your OuraRing Deep Transformation program waitlist Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary How do you change neural pathways in the brain? One way is through language patterning. Today we talk about how particular language exercise patterns can help re-wire the brain and help someone feel relief from intense emotions and triggers. And after the world has experienced so many intense triggers for such an extended period of time, this type of work with a practitioner couldn't be more timely. Discover Evie's experience of neural reprogramming in today's conversation. In This Episode: The rise of mindset in health coaching [03:01] Luge tracks [08:17] Cause vs Effect [11:35] Emotion neurology relationship [15:02] Gestalt theory of psychology [19:01] Evie's experience releasing negative emotion [20:50] Measuring effects of neural rewiring [25:22] Honoring all parts of ourselves [27:21] Using neurology to change biology [28:55] Changing difficult conversations with new perspectives [30:59]   Resources Mentioned: Deep Transformation program waitlist Gestalt Psychology Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary This episode we cover the downsides to sun exposure. While we love the health benefits of getting outdoors and into sunlight, the reality is there are downsides. Toréa shares her story of getting a skin cancer diagnosis and how she handled receiving the diagnosis, options for treatment and how its changed her relationship to the sun (a bit). Learning how to catch skin cancer early is the key, so listen in to hear how to do that! In This Episode: Downsides to sun exposure [01:41] A skin cancer diagnosis [02:25] Porokeratosis [04:37] Angry moles [06:05] Basal cell carcinoma treatments [07:37] Immunogenic topical treatment [10:05] What's changed post diagnosis [12:54] Getting a dermatological baseline [17:0260] Adjusting the medical model mindset [18:21] UV protective clothing [20:23] Cultivating faith in a treatment model [25:38] Balancing medical models [27:29]   Resources Mentioned: Deep Transformation program waitlist Sun Hoody Sun Hoody plus sizes Straw Sun Hat Another straw sun hat Long Sleeved Swimsuits Basal Cell Carcinoma Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma Overview Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Evie and Toréa share their favorite ways of activating the parasympathetic nervous system and how to build your own personal toolkit to develop nervous system resiliency and balance. There might also be an important PSA about bears! In This Episode: Nervous System role in Chronic Illness [01:08] Breathwork as a “gateway drug” [02:19] Heart Rate Variability [03:38] Sympathetic overuse and chronic illness [07:0200] Freeze as a sympathetic state [08:15] Vagus Nerve activation [11:03] PSA: Don;t run from bears [13:56] Biofeedback of HRV [17:14] Sensory tools for parasympathetic [18:24] Birdsong & ecology as state triggers [20:16] It's not a 1:1 ratio [24:30] Cold plunges [26:37] Building your own toolkit [27:52]   Resources Mentioned: Inner Balance for Heart Rate Variability Birdsong & Stress Recovery study Health In Motion Podcast Last Chance for the Wilderness Reset Retreat Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Toréa and Evie discuss the importance of regulating emotions and the intersectionality of emotions on health. Each of them share their introduction into the importance of learning about emotions and how their health has been impacted along the way. In This Episode: Wilderness Reset Retreat [03:52] Torea's introductions to emotions & health [05:34] Evie's big emotions [08:08] Psychoneuroimmunology [10:36] Emotions and gallbladder pain [14:12] Emotions and woo [17:0510] Crying as an emotional release [18:56] Conducting an Emotional Home inventory [21:51] Moving e-motion through motion [26:21] Physiology and emotion [29:25] Talking through emotion [31:0530] Emotional Release technique [32:43] The new Deep Transformation Program [35:47]   Resources Mentioned: Deep Transformation program waitlist Last Chance for the Wilderness Reset Retreat Kyle Cease - The Illusion of Money Tears under a microscope Amy Cuddy TED Talk Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Toréa gets her chance to summarize some of the topics in previous episodes, and demonstrates how she's incorporated those concepts into her life. Sometimes it helps to hear things more than once, and it also helps to hear how other people interpret and incorporate new information. This is a peek into what it's like to hear the takeaways from the coaches perspective. You'll also get a sneak peak into some of the topics coming up in Season Three!   In This Episode: Reminders to touch nature from Grounding (S2E2) [00:00] Presence with MAK (S2E4) [00:00] Pandemic as a pattern interrupt [08:42] Preventing complacency [11:14] Power of decision [12:54] Being intentional about the outdoors [00:00] Full Spectrum Light details (S2E7) [15:53] Cold Exposure Therapy (S2E1) [17:11] Reynaud's and neural reprogramming [18:20] Wilderness Reset Retreat [29:39] Resources Mentioned: Wilderness Reset Retreat sign up Retreat Information Melissa Urban I'm Not Your Guru on Netflix Mini Thermapen Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Evie summarizes some of the topics in previous episodes, and demonstrates how she's incorporated those concepts into her life. Sometimes it helps to hear things more than once, and it also helps to hear how other people interpret and incorporate new information. This is a peek into what it's like to hear the takeaways from the coaches perspective.   In This Episode: Behind the scenes of a health coach [03:21] Implementing the learnings of Secondary Gain (S1 E5) [07:25] Recognizing the focus in conversation (S1 E8) [10:31] Relating to Heather Kelly's Story (S2 E8) [16:03] Relationship to food (S2 E8) [18:47] Being intentional, Konrad from Sunlight Inside (S2 E7) [23:27] Cause vs Effect [30:11] Resources Mentioned: Wilderness Reset Retreat sign up Retreat Information Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Maybe you're a long time outdoor enthusiast, or maybe you are just starting out. But you might also be wondering, is there something out there that is healthy to eat while in the backcountry or just even during airplane travel that is super convenient. And YES there is. It's called Heather's Choice! Listen to Evie & Toréa's conversation with Heather all about the birth of this innovative company and what its taken to grow it all while working through some of her own health issues along the way.   In This Episode: How Toréa discovered Heather's Choice [02:35] Heather's story with health [04:01] The triple dog dare [09:29] Relationship between food and inflammation [13:01] Struggle of finding healthy food for backcountry [14:58] Using Heather's Choice on an airplane [16:45] The start of Heather's Choice [17:18] Scaling up and expanding into REI[20:10] Finding the right people to support the journey [22:34] Shifting our relationship to food [26:43] Heather's enjoyment of the outdoors [31:37] Finding your community of people [31:30]   Resources Mentioned: Heather's Choice website Heather's Choice Instagram Packaroons Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

This week, Evie and Toréa are joined by Konrad Jarausch, founder of Sunlight Inside. Konrad graciously shared his immense knowledge about light spectra, artificial lights and how artificial light compares to natural sunlight. If you ever got confused trying to figure out lighting in a home improvement store, or if you just couldn't figure out what kind of lighting for inside was better for you than others, then look no further because Konrad shares a wealth of information in this episode. What kind of light do you have in your home? . In This Episode: How Konrad started Sunlight Inside [01:50] Light engines vs light bulbs [05:31] Pros and cons for LED lighting [05:51] Why we have warm sunlight in morning and evening [06:57] What about green light? [08:03] Different kinds of light for different parts of the day [09:25] CCT vs CRI [10:28] Importance of overhead light [15:52] F.lux by Michael Hertz (now Nightshift) [16:09] Distance from light source makes a difference [16:45] World recordings of natural light & Telelumen partnership[17:45] Spectral power distribution [21:04] How to choose a light therapy device [21:04] Which light spectra is good for Seasonal Affectiveness Disorder [22:49] Which lights are good for circadian rhythm [24:04] How Sunlight Inside lamps compensate for shorter days in winter [25:31] What is lighting purgatory? [26:45] How SAD can strike in the summertime [28:52] Resources Mentioned: Sunlight Inside lamps. Save -10% with code TOREA F.lux Telelumen Science behind full spectrum light Sunlight Inside Facebook Sunlight Inside Instagram Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

The sun. Is it good for you? Is it bad for you? These days it feels like its all or nothing on most topics and the sun is one of those that gets divided really quick. Listen to this refreshing take on how to find a personal balanced approach with the sun, and how you can optimize your exposure to benefit your health, yet not damage your health at the same time. In This Episode: Tanning Beds & Fear of the Sun [03:32] Vitamin D Synthesis and levels [09:07] Magnesium helps with Vitamin D Synthesis (see magnesium recommendation below) [10:12] Best times of day for sun exposure [12:21] D Minder app [15:48] Sunscreens [21:11] Personal Care products and lack of regulation [22:46] Our favorite sunscreens [24:30] Resources Mentioned: Professional grade Vitamin D supplements Mello Magnesium (use code TOREA for -15%) Role of Magnesium in Vitamin D Activation and Function D Minder App Light protection of the skin after photodynamic therapy reduces inflammation Not So Pretty Documentary Healthy Living app COOLA Sunscreen Beautycounter Sunscreens MAK's article on sunscreen Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary This week Evie & Toréa explore the ideas of intentionally getting out in nature and disconnecting from our highly connected world. Whether its 30 minutes, a weekend, or even for weeks at a time, the change to the biology can be profound. And if you want to know why sloths turn green, tune in! In This Episode: Biometric trackers reflecting the effect of nature [04:46] Birdsong effect on the Nervous System [06:34] Vagus Nerve stimulation devices [07:51] Digital Detoxes [10:31] Cultural obsession with smartphones [14:41] Balance between connection and disconnection [15:40] Availability vs accessibility [19:14] Adapting to and from nature [23:42] Setting boundaries with technology [28:17] Sloths that turn green [34:15] Resources Mentioned: The Getaway House Wild book by Cheryl Strayed Vagus Nerve Stimulation Device Birdsong & Stress Recovery study Oura Ring biometric tracker Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Season Two's first guest, MAK from Bound For Nowhere joins us to talk about presence in nature: what it looks like, what it feels like and how it can impact health, mental health and wellbeing. As a multifaceted creative, MAK has documented much of her experiences outdoors and continues to highlight these elements in all their beauty. Listen in on her unique experiences of presence in nature.   In This Episode: Difference between just going for a walk and being outdoors for days at a time [05:21] Flow state [06:35] Humans are tied to the cycles of nature [13:00] Eating seasonally chances DNA expression [15:27] Modern life distractions disconnect us from nature [17:50] MAK's wealthiest moment to date [20:17] Noticing how emotions can tell you you need time outside [26:06] Nature can show you how capable you really are [34:49] MAK's favorite thing to do outside for wellness [40:05]   Resources Mentioned: Bound For Nowhere MAK's website Follow Bound For Nowhere on Instagram Lost and Found series on YouTube Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary This week, Evie and Toréa expand the definition of exercise beyond what happens at the gym, how getting dynamic and more natural movement throughout the day can actually change your DNA expression on the cellular level. So for those that need another compelling reason to get outside, or you just want to have an excuse to play and climb that tree over there, have a listen! In This Episode: What to do when you're told you can't use your previous form of exercise [03:016] What's your Butt to Chair ratio? [07:35] Increasing movement variety to increase ranges of motion [10:53] Toddlers having intrinsic perfect squat form [16:12] Mechanotransduction [18:32] Building new neural pathways to correct movement overcompensation [24:09] Resources Mentioned: Move Your DNA book by Katy Bowman DUTCH Hormone Testing Gait Happens Torea's Movement Coach David Thunder Vivo Barefoot Shoes Revivo refurbished Vivo Barefoot shoes Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

In yet another cross over episode with Health In Motion, today Toréa and Evie talk about the process of grounding and why this is so important, especially in today's environment in which most of us live. Discover how easy it is to do. Plus, lets see some photos of your feet in the grass!   In This Episode: How electricity works in the body [04:04] How grounding feels [06:09] Electrocution story [07:54] Grounding affecting sleep [13:06] Grounding shoes [14:02] Grounding sheet [16:23] Improved Heart Rate Variability [16:56] Improved Immune system markers [19:46] Simple and free medicine [22:06] Shinrin yoku/forest bathing [26:39]   Resources Mentioned: The Finer Forces of Nature in Diagnosis & Therapy Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Grounding Mats & Products Health In Motion Podcast EMF Episode Earth Runner Sandals Emotional Stress, Heart Rate Variability, Grounding, and Improved Autonomic Tone: Clinical Applications Grounding and reduced perception of pain Oura Ring Earthing the Human Body Influences Physiologic Processes Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary Welcome back to Season 2! And first up is a deeper dive into Cold Immersion Therapy and intentional cold exposure as a wellness booster. Evie and Toréa talk through the various ways to get cold at home and they cover what kinds of health benefits can be derived from such activities. Moreover, highlighting something that can be found in nature and places to find cold immersion opportunities in the outdoors. This conversation is a cross-over episode with the Health In Motion, Cold Immersion Therapy episode where we cover even more benefits, the “how” and “why” and ways to incorporate this into your life. If you have not heard that episode yet, give yourself a treat and check it out.   In This Episode: How Evie got started with cold plunges [02:42] Hormetic stressors  [04:28] Metabolic health & immune response  [06:37] Controlling stress response  [09:00] Shifts in mood  [10:33] Blood sugar stabilization  [11:28] Continuous glucose monitoring  [14:19] Cold therapy with rheumatoid arthritis  [14:19] Finding cold water outdoors  [17:10] The mental game  [19:38] Cold exposure and Reynaud's syndrome  [22:58] Cold exposure and microbiome  [28:13] Wim Hof Method  [29:25]   Resources Mentioned: Health In Motion podcast Cold Immersion Therapy Episode The Cold Plunge Wim Hof Method Increases in dopamine though temperature exposure Improved insulin sensitivity Improved glucose uptake Innersense GCM decreasing inflammatory signaling molecules in Rheumatoid arthritis Effectiveness of different cryotherapies on pain and disease activity in active rheumatoid arthritis Cold exposure and microbiome alterations Toréa's Website Follow Toréa on Instagram Evie's Website Follow Evie on Instagram Join the Optimized Wellness Community   If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question here.

Episode Summary: One of the most grey areas when talking about health can be determining whether a situation is a circumstance, or is it an excuse? Evie and Toréa would assert it's not black or white, nor should it be expected to be so separate. Listen in on the discussion on ways to determine which is which, and how to modify as appropriate for each. In This Episode: Free Training happening 18 April [01:09] What is a circumstance vs an excuse [02:42] When is modification the best approach [06:08] Allowances becoming excuses [08:50] Gaming the system of circumstances [12:11] How many perspectives on the same event [17:22] Can't allow the current circumstances to affect your mood [19:37] Getting creative with change [24:05] Resources Mentioned: Register for the Free Training April 18th https://torea.co/Training18Apr22 Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/.

Sometimes what holds us back in health are things we can not see! Such is the case commonly with mold exposure or living/working in a water damaged building. In this special episode we will hear Rachel's story how she faced mold in two different homes, but also how that experience sparked her interest in a new field, Building Biology. Listen in to learn about the things we can do in such situations. In This Episode: ERMI Test for buildings [03:43] How new construction may not be safe [05:39] Building Biology Institute [08:36] Intuition plays a huge role in identifying blind corners [10:29] New construction fail [12:32] Emotional effects of dealing with mold [14:39] Information is power [16:45] What is Building Biology? [17:57] When is the best time to engage a Building Biologist [18:48] Code inspectors vs Building Biology Standards [19:19] How to find a Building Biologist [20:28] Turning moldy lemons into lemonade [21:59] Nature is the gold standard [23:28] Economic divides in healthy home construction [26:43] Free actions improve a home environment [28:27] Rachel's outside tip [33:19]   Resources Mentioned: Register for the Free Training April 18th https://torea.co/Training18Apr22 Find Rachel at https://franklinhealthyhomes.com Building Biology Institute https://buildingbiologyinstitute.org ERMI Testing for buildings https://www.envirobiomics.com/product/ermi/ Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/.

One of the hardest things to shift is what we focus on while we are healing or working towards health goals. Have you noticed, yet, that you may focus a lot on the symptoms you are experiencing or how you're “not there yet?” This something Evie and I help our clients (and ourselves, as you'll hear) shift on a regular basis. And when we start to focus more on what we want, than we on what we don't want, the biology shifts even faster! In this episode: Learned about focus from Jen Sincero [01:40] What the brain pays attention to [04:55] Is it Mercury Retrograde, or our thoughts? [08:03] Current circumstances determining mood [11:26] Looking for evidence to support our focus [20:58] Meaning we place onto symptoms [23:32] Unspoken expectations of perfection in health [27:37] Resources mentioned: Find Jen Sincero's great resources at https://jensincero.com Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/.

Episode Summary You know that critic voice in your head right? ;-) I know you do! I have her too! The truth is, those words that our inner voice uses, and the words that we say to others, and the words we hear others say to us, those words impact our biology in ways I would never have imagined. In recent years, scientists have begun to uncover the inner workings of our thoughts and the effect on biology. Which means, that by paying attention to your language, you can have a positive impact on your health! Listen in on the conversation that Evie & Toréa have around how much Language Matters. In this episode: Psychoneuroimmunology and its role with language [01:59] Two key words to look out for [04:09] Scarcity vs abundance mindset [11:00] Pivoting thoughts [13:32] Language must match the destination [16:27] Caring for mental health in chronic illness [18:48] Evie's personal example [25:17] The “all or nothing” trap [29:58] Resources mentioned: Information on Psychoneuroimmunology https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18318882/ Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/. 

Episode Summary How does our identity keep us from progressing in our health? Today, Evie & Toréa explore this concept of examining our identity. Getting super curious about what we think about ourselves is actually true, and how to create a new identity to support your growth & wellness goals. If you've ever told yourself, “I will always be this way…” then this episode is for you! In this episode: How beliefs and identity can hold us back [02:44] Questioning the truth[ 09:09] Choosing to think differently [11:22] Joe Dispensa's book [15:01] Defining the new version of you [19:57] Western medical model of fixed identity [26:06] Resources mentioned: Dr. Joe Dispensa's book, Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Habit-Being-Yourself-Create/dp/1401938094 Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/. 

Episode Summary Oftentimes our subconscious is what blocks us from making gains in our health or in our goals. We are joined today by a dear friend & colleague Megan Blacksmith from ZestyGinger to talk about Secondary Gain. What is it and why should you care? Turns out it's one of those sneaky ways we get stuck without knowing it. Listen in to find out how to use it to your advantage. In this episode: Megan's introduction [01:48] Brain's role in healing [05:23] Moving away from guilt and shame in health [08:02] Clearing emotions within the body [11:00] Secondary gain, what is it? [14:55] Examining your relationship with yourself [24:28] Becoming aware of secondary gain [27:04] Antidotes to secondary gain [31:12] Quantum model of healing [33:35] Megan's outside tip [37:26] Resources mentioned: Find Megan at http://zestyginger.com and on Instagram @zesty_ginger Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/. 

Episode Summary What trips us up the most when it comes to building new habits? Toréa and Evie dive into what those things are that can derail our best efforts when trying to shift routines or establish new habits. Further, in this episode they talk about the techniques they have used successfully themselves and with clients to establish new habits. And moreover, how to make them really stick and become part of your subconscious! In other words, how to make it so easy, you forgot you were doing it! In this episode: Starting with just one thing [02:12] Habit Stacking [04:06] Why phone reminders don't work [08:58] Establishing a clear “why” [09:50] Gamifying rewards & friendly competition [14:22] Starting super small & building up [18:50] Giving yourself the grace to be new at something [22:08] Resources mentioned: Strava https://www.strava.com Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/. 

Episode Summary   Expanding on the last episode, we dive deep into all the areas that our Circadian Rhythm touches regarding our physical and mental health. We talk about how the power of light (yes that free stuff from the sun) can enhance our health if we know how to time our exposure to the right forms of light. We also share some surprising things you may not know. Listen in!   In this episode: Circadian Rhythms manage more than just jetlag  [01:08] Zeitgebers  [03:03] Melatonin production [05:42] Blue light blocking glasses [11:19] Blood sugar regulation [16:06] Seasonal Affective Disorder [17:45] Full-spectrum lamps [20:01] Resources mentioned: More about Zeitgebers https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeitgeber Sunlight Inside Lamps (Use code TOREA for -10%)  https://www.sunlightinside.com Use code TOREA for -10% Blue Light Blockers (Use code restored10 for -10%) https://midwestredlighttherapy.com/product/night-prowler-orange-lens-blue-light-blockers/ Study on melatonin suppression in children https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jpi.12780 Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/.

Episode Summary   Hands down, what you do in the first hours of your day determines your success towards any goal you're trying to accomplish! Want better health? Want more focus time? Want to meet your financial, personal goals? It all comes down to the first hours of the morning. When it comes to health, this simple habit is what our clients use to actualize their goals more quickly and make more gains in their health than they thought possible. In this episode we break down the most simple things to be doing on a morning routine to achieve that wildly optimized wellness!   In this episode: Setting up your day for success [02:09] Making the routine a habit [05:35] Crafting your ideal morning routine [11:59] Morning routine snowball effect [16:24] Programming the subconscious [19:05] Choosing location independent routines [22:03] Experiment to find what works for you [30:03] Resources mentioned: Hal Elrod's Miracle Morning https://miraclemorning.com Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/.

Episode Summary   Ever start something new, like a New Year's Resolution and then only have it be a distant memory just after a few weeks? Us too! We've all been there with the best intentions, high motivation and then suddenly it falls flat.  In this episode, Toréa & Evie talk about what mistakes they have made, things they've noticed their clients have done that all lead towards new things not sticking.    We also talk about the ways you can bulletproof the processes so that when you are starting that new eating plan, breathwork or workout plan, that you have higher chances of succeeding!   In this episode: Number one reason why new habits fail  [01:09] Creating space for new habits [08:21] Focus on one thing [10:08] Not playing the comparison game [13:03] Not letting past thresholds determine current thresholds [16:28] Deciding vs wanting [17:26] Speaking as if the goal is already accomplished [19:34] Making a plan for a new habit [24:44] Visualization [26:18] Making room to be a beginner [29:20] Resources mentioned: Find Toréa at https://torearodriguez.com Find Evie at https://holisticallyrestored.com Join the Optimized Wellness Community https://torea.co/OWC If you have a question for the show, you can submit your question under the podcast section of https://torearodriguez.com/.