In Pursuit of Better (but not more)
Optimization means editing your wellness habits and products — including saying no to skincare for 3 year olds.
Optimization is a word I throw around a lot — and for good reason.
It’s more than a defining word in my title. It’s the lens I use to design protocols, vet products and guide clients into more easeful lives.
Technically it means, “an act, process or methodology of making something as functional or effective as possible.”
In practice, it looks like streamlining what’s essential and letting go of what’s just…extra.
Whether I’m refining a client’s morning routine or editing the products on their vanity, I’m always asking, “Does this actually make life better?”
If the answer is no, it’s out because it’s not aligned with your values, priorities or goals. Or maybe it just doesn’t work.
Sometimes optimization looks like more white space in your calendar. Other times, it shows up as more freedom to redirect energy to where it matters most. It’s the opposite of buying random products served to you by the algorithm.
My vetting process takes into consideration a few things like quality of ingredients, efficacy of formulations and integrity of the founders. Trust goes a long way when you are deciding which products to buy or practitioners to listen to.
Here’s what made the cut this week and what didn’t:
✅ WeNatal’s newly launched Protein+ For Her, a powder supplement which conveniently includes protein, collagen and prenatal vitamins inside. There’s one For Him too, which includes the preconception nutrients crucial for male fertility, an important part of the brand’s mission. I love this habit stack — a 3-in-1 smoothie that respects your time as well as your nutrient load.
✅ Symbiome’s newly launched The Solution, Firming Neck & Décolleté Serum, which features potent stem cell media for collagen support and ultra hydrating Saccharide Isomerate which is a moisture magnet for delicate skin. From the team that created the beauty editor cult favorite, The Answer serum.
✅ Ancient+Brave’s True Hydrate, advanced electrolyte powder which is more for daily hydration and less for intense exercise. It includes much less salt than LMNT and adds in chromium and inulin to support energy and digestion.
✅ Lisa Gainsley, my go-to lymphatic therapy expert, who has a double certification in Lymphedema Therapy as well as extensive education in bodywork, meditation, and yoga is a trusted resource. Her health-centric approach to lymph allows her to work with patients at UCLA Medical Center as well as Hollywood elite who are interested in more than just, “slimming down.”
✅ Bonus for Subscribers
On Tuesday, November 11 at 11am PST, Lisa Gainsley is joining me for the first In the Pink LIVE on Substack to discuss the health benefits of lymph massage. She will teach us a simple facial massage to depuff and lift using her favorite
postbiotic face oil. Bring your questions for the chat!❌ Shay Mitchell’s newly launched Rini, hydrogel and sheet masks for children. The skincare line is getting a lot of backlash for marketing masks to kids as young as three who need, in their words, “deep hydration and after-sun soothing.” There is a big difference in teaching your children about skin health (ie sunscreen) and the aspirational wellness of “self-care.” This is a NO for me, no matter how chic the packaging is.
I’m a health optimization coach, brand advisor and speaker specializing in metabolism, body composition and hormones. I coach busy professionals who are ready for deep transformation, teach educational workshops and consult with leading wellness brands. Featured in the New York Times & goop. I’d love to be part of your health journey.