Review: Personal Alchemy

As someone who’s been navigating the tumultuous waters of perimenopause, I can honestly say that finding a resource like The New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire Haver has been nothing short of a lifeline. It’s often said that knowledge is power, and this book does exactly that—empowering women to take charge of their health during a time when our bodies are changing in ways that can feel overwhelming and frustrating.

In my own experience with perimenopause, I’ve struggled with symptoms like irregular sleep patterns, mood swings, and weight gain that seemed to come out of nowhere. The feeling of loss of control over my body was not only physical but emotional. Dr. Haver’s approach to menopause is refreshingly holistic—she not only presents scientific facts but also provides real-life, relatable advice to help women thrive through this stage of life, not just survive.

The book covers everything from physical symptoms, like changes in skin and sleep patterns, to neurological, psychological, and even sexual health concerns. Dr. Haver also does a fantastic job of addressing the long-term health risks that come with the drop in estrogen levels, such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. For women like myself who want to be proactive, her science-backed toolkit on what steps to take is both comprehensive and actionable.

One of the most helpful sections for me was about advocating for myself during doctor visits. I’ve often felt like my concerns were brushed aside or minimized, and Dr. Haver empowers readers with practical questions to ask their doctors and the tools to secure comprehensive care—something I desperately needed.

In addition to all the invaluable health insights, the book also touches on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), explaining the latest research and balancing both the benefits and potential side effects, which gave me the confidence to make informed decisions about my own treatment options.

Essential Oils for Menopause Relief:

For those of us trying to manage symptoms naturally, essential oils can be an incredible tool. In addition to Dr. Haver’s advice, I’ve found that certain essential oils have helped me feel more balanced during perimenopause:

1. Clary Sage – Known for its calming effects, it helps with mood swings and hot flashes.

2. Peppermint – Excellent for headaches and nausea, common issues during hormonal fluctuations.

3. Lavender – Great for sleep support, especially if your sleep is disrupted due to night sweats or anxiety.

4. Geranium – Supports hormonal balance and can alleviate feelings of irritability.

5. Frankincense – Can help with anxiety and stress, grounding your mind and body.

6. Ylang Ylang – A sweet floral oil that can boost mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

7. Rose – Known for supporting emotional well-being and can help with feelings of sadness or low self-esteem.

I use a few drops of these oils in a diffuser before bed, or dilute them with a carrier oil for a soothing massage, especially on areas like my neck and shoulders when I feel tension or discomfort.

The New Menopause is not just a guide—it’s a celebration of empowerment, helping women reclaim their vitality during a period of change. Dr. Haver provides a comprehensive blueprint for not only surviving menopause but thriving through it, arming us with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to take control of our health at this pivotal stage in our lives. This book is an essential read for any woman going through this transition, and it’s sure to become a trusted companion in your menopause journey.

If you’re feeling lost or unsure, I highly recommend picking up The New Menopause. It’s time to embrace this phase of life with purpose, power, and—most importantly—self-care.

Updated to add, I have just purchased this Menopause blend   of hormone balance drops and will update with my review shortly.