Dumb thoughts: January 2006 Archives

One of the gifts of getting older is the ability to listen more carefully - especially to yourself. In my youth, I was apt to - even preferred to - blunder in and through a project or a challenge. I liked the mess of it all. Looking at all the features all at once, getting immersed almost to the point of confusion. In fact, it was pure joy to untangle the ball of yarn in order to discover some kind of order and set about an effective procedure for managing the project of challenge. I loved problem solving - creating solutions more than actually effecting them.

Fair Warning: These entries will only interest the over-40 and female crowd or quite possibility a forward thinking husband interested in what is happening inside the mind of the average female.

I have spent the better part of my 40's trying to figure out - or maybe outsmart - my body. I've also spent that time totally pissed off that my body would simply betray me. I've been horrified by the undeniable conclusion that I'm not 25 anymore. Imagine that!

Why the hell don't they warn you about this! I have read nearly every medical journal, women's magazine, alternative and holistic, that has anything to say about perimenopause and menopause. I've tried nearly every health supplement, yoga position, exercise and a number of prescribed medicines.

My symptoms are typical: insomnia, migraines, irritability (or rather, outright bitchiness), digestive distress (IBS), and power surges. It's sapped my energy, my creativity, and my patience.

Here's what I discovered.