In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, physical therapists Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, discuss how postpartum women can safely return to strength training while breastfeeding. They explain the hormonal changes after birth and their effects on mood, energy, and physical recovery. The hosts share practical health tips for hydrations, nutrition, and gradual exercise progression, emphasizing core and pelvic floor stability in early postpartum stages. Personal experiences and strategies for accountability are highlighted, along with the importance of patience and individualized approaches. The episode offers encouragement and evidence-based advice to help new moms regain strength and support their health during the postpartum period.

VivoBarefoot Discount:

Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!

Needed Discount:

Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!

Strong Healthy Joints

This program is a powerhouse in helping build muscle mass and improve your bone density! Come grab our listener bonus discount on Strong Healthy Joints using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout!

We think you’ll love:

• Strong Healthy Joints Course
• BeWell By Kelly Protein
• Jen’s Instagram
• Dom’s Instagram
• YouTube Channel

What You Will Learn:

02:15 Hormonal Shifts Postpartum

03:17 Calorie Deficit & Mindset Shift

05:40 Prolactin and Its Effects

06:53 Oxytocin and Maternal Bonding

07:50 Estrogen Drop and Bone Health

09:19 Progesterone...

For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/426

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Dr Dom, welcome holistic therapist Megan, creator of the Love Alignment Method and author of Choose Yourself. Megan shares her journey from eating disorder recovery to specializing in attachment trauma and relationships. The discussion explores self-discovery, healing attachment wounds, exploring past relationships, and the importance of somatic therapy to heal traumatic pain. Megan offers practical tips for finding the right therapist, cultivating the mind-body connection, and embracing time alone to build self-worth. The episode provides empowering insights and tools for cultivating authentic relationships and prioritizing personal healing and growth.

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Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:

Get a free week of Jen Health Membership! Access 12 plans crafted by Doc Jen, PT. We’ll match you with the best plan for your goals. Check it out today and use code OPTIMAL for a discount on your first month!

Megan's Resources:

• "Choose Yourself" by Megan Sherer
• Megan's Instagram
• Megan's Youtube
• Megan's Website

We think you’ll love:

• Free Week of Jen Health
• Jen’s Instagram
• Dom’s Instagram
• YouTube Channel

What You Will Learn:

02:00 Megan shares her journey from eating disorder recovery to attachment trauma, and why she wrote her book.

04:26 Discussion on societal pressures, especially for women, to follow specific relationship timelines.

07:00 Limitations of Traditional Talk...

For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/425

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom explore how to build muscle and strength without lifting heavy weights. They explain that working muscles to fatigue within a moderate rep range—using lighter loads or bodyweight—can be just as effective to build muscle. The hosts share practical exercise modifications, discuss the importance of reaching muscular failure, and emphasize recovery, nutrition, and consistency. They encourage listeners, especially women and older adults, to prioritize strength training for muscle growth for lifelong optimal health and independence, offering accessible strategies and resources for getting started at home.

VivoBarefoot Discount:

Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!

Needed Discount:

Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!

We think you’ll love:

• Strong Healthy Joints Course
• Jen’s Instagram
• Dom’s Instagram
• YouTube Channel

What You Will Learn:

03:07 Sarcopenia and Muscle Loss with Age

06:51 Strength Training for Longevity

09:44 Rep Ranges to Build Muscle

11:08 Muscular Failure vs. Muscle Burn

13:44 Training Frequency for Muscle Growth

15:17 Blood Flow Restriction & Joint Sensitivities

17:12 Challenging Mindsets About Lifting Heavy

19:59 Designing a Low-Load Hypertrophy Workout

20:05 Lower Body Exercise Examples

22:46 Upper Body Exercise Examples

25:32 Shoulder and Overhead Exercises

28:25 Nutrition and Recovery for Muscle Growth

For Full Show Notes and Resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/424