Kathy Smith's Moving Through Menopause: The Complete Program for Exercise, Nutrition and Total Wellness

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