Have you ever thought, *I just don’t feel like myself anymore*? Maybe your sleep has changed. Your energy isn’t what it used to be. You’re experiencing brain fog, anxiety, changes in your body, lower motivation, or you simply feel off — but you’re not quite sure why. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Heather Elton, IFMCP, DCBCN, DC, owner of Move•ment Chiropractic & Integrative Wellness, for a conversation about women’s hormones, perimenopause, stress, and what can happen when changes inside our bodies collide with major changes happening in our REAL lives. We talk about why perimenopause is so much more than hot flashes, how hormonal shifts can affect our physical and emotional well-being, and why two women experiencing similar symptoms may need very different kinds of support. We also explore something I think is especially important: this stage of life often overlaps with divorce, betrayal, career changes, caring for aging parents, children leaving home, grief, and other major transitions. So how do we begin sorting through what’s hormonal, what’s stress, what’s emotional, and what may be a combination of all three? In this episode, we talk about: What functional medicine is and how Dr. Heather approaches women’s healthWhat’s actually happening during perimenopause and how long this transition can lastHow changing estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels may affect sleep, energy, mood, motivation, brain fog, libido, body composition, and moreWhy women can feel like something is wrong even when they’ve been told their labs are “normal”The relationship between prolonged stress and hormonal healthWhat happens when hormonal changes overlap with major life transitionsWhy community and asking for support matter during this seasonThe foundational role of nutrition, movement, hydration, stress support, and sleepWhy there isn’t one supplement, protocol, or hormone solution that is right for every womanHow to approach all of the hormone and wellness information online with more discernment One thing I really appreciated about this conversation is Dr. Heather’s reminder that women deserve individualized care. Feeling different as your body changes doesn’t mean you need to resign yourself to feeling less like you for the rest of your life. And you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Continue the Conversation Dr. Heather and I will also be continuing this conversation during an upcoming workshop on women’s health and hormones, where we’ll have more time to go deeper and offer additional education and practical support. You can find current workshop details and registration here: https://reallifewellnesscoaching.com/workshops/ About Dr. Heather Elton Dr. Heather Elton is a Doctor of Chiropractic, Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Nutrition, and is board certified through the Institute for Functional Medicine. She has practiced functional medicine since 2013 and is the owner of Move•ment Chiropractic & Integrative Wellness. Her work includes supporting patients experiencing hormonal dysfunction, autoimmune and gastrointestinal disorders, chronic fatigue, infertility, fibromyalgia, and more. How I support women in this work… If you’re ready to build routines that support a life you love: ✨ Upcoming Workshops https://reallifewellnesscoaching.com/workshops/ ✨ Meditation and Reflection opportunities - https://reallifewellnesscoaching.com/meditations/ ✨ Membership: Ongoing tools, encouragement, and community to support your healing and growth. Learn more here https://reallifewellnesscoaching.com/membership/ ✨ Coaching: One-on-one support to help you create aligned routines, boundaries, and habits. I want coaching and I've experienced infidelity and am looking for a way forward I want coaching that is focused on making changes with nutritionI want coaching to improve my overall life Let’s be social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reallifewellnesscoaching/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/reallifewellnessmindbodyspirit Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/reallifewellnesscoaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faith-lauterbach-0510b923a/ Bio I specialize in supporting women who have experienced infidelity and are ready to reclaim their power, rebuild trust in themselves, and create a life they truly love. As a holistic nurse and wellness coach, I weave together mindful nutrition, movement, mindset work, and nervous system regulation to help women reconnect with their bodies and their inner strength. While my heart is in guiding women through the healing process after betrayal, I also work with clients on a wide range of wellness goals—helping them create sustainable routines and habits that align with their values and vision for a thriving life. Outside of my work, I’m married to my soulmate, Seth, and I’m blessed to be a mom, stepmom, grandma, and mother-in-law. Family time is at the top of my list. I also have amazing friends and get together regularly with them, supper club, book club, backpacking & hiking, daily walks, yoga, reading, traveling to exciting places, creative projects, and organizing spaces to create a cozy, welcoming home. ***Making any lifestyle changes is from my own experience and/or other clients personal experiences and may not be suited for you. It is strongly recommended that you consult with your health professional before making changes in your own life. By engaging in anything that I talk about, you agree that you do so at your own risk. Mentioned in this episode: Love Your Real Life Membership https://l.bttr.to/TwTA2