Achieving optimal wellness requires attention to When and Where you are and not just Who you are. Circadian and seasonal rhythms coupled with environmental factors can have dramatic effects on our metabolism, hormones and wellbeing.

Each day, our bodies decide whether yesterday was a good day or bad day. And then our body chooses a strategy to ensure our survival, yet we may be sacrificing wellness as a consequence given that our bodies evolved to deal with different times and environments.

At a recent WOWSER (Women Only Wellness Sisterhood and Exercise Retreat) in Gig Harbor led by Kate Katke, we discussed what this means for making choices as we considered:

• Is menopause a natural condition? And how should it influence our choices regarding hormone replacement and botanical treatment choices?

• Does our hardwired stress response support our daily schedules?

Which dietary program best supports healthy endocrine function

• Is intermittent fasting healthy?

• Should we eat seasonally and locally?

The conversation around these questions was found to be informative and helpful by many of the attendees. At my office, the PLMC by Metagenics, we recently announced a series of webinars on several health topics. One of the topics we will be addressing is “Women’s Health Concerns” in a 5-week series of 30 minute webinars. Look for details at the Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Center by Metagenics Facebook page.