Fitness expert Kathy Smith has written a sensitive and smart book about what she calls the "half-time bell," also known as menopause. Using as examples her own hot flashes, raw nerves, restless nights, and memory misfires, Smith outlines an upbeat, trifaceted program for "taking charge of menopause." She addresses the three themes of midlife transition: hormonal symptoms such as mood swings and night sweats; the need to reflect and create a deeper meaning; and long-term health issues, specifically heart disease and bone loss. Each theme is explored using examples from Smith's experience, questionnaires, self-tests, journal writing, and relevant up-to-date information. Smith details dozens of strategies for taking charge--from herbal remedies to hormone replacement, from illustrated strength training workouts to Kegel exercises to keep your sex life active. Her optimistic and sensible suggestions deliver on her promise that menopause can be more than just a set of symptoms. --Barbara Mackoff

FROM OUR EDITORS

This is by turns a candid personal account of one of the most dramatic changes in a woman's life and an accessible guidebook to navigating the ups and downs -- both physical and emotional -- of menopause, from fitness icon Kathy Smith. Exercises, stress-relieving techniques, and tips for minimizing symptoms are just some of the book's features. With great warmth, Smith provides all the information readers need to navigate the perimenopausal/menopausal years with their figures and spirits intact, proving that this phase can indeed be an opportunity for change.

FROM THE PUBLISHER