Woman at the Edge of Two Worlds: The Spiritual Journey of Menopause

Combining feminism and mysticism in a positive approach to menopause, Andrews ( Medicine Woman ) proclaims that this stage of life marks the liberation of women from the physical and psychological stresses of their younger years, and signals the onset of a more powerful life of the spirit. And while some menopausal women may not identify themselves readily as ``sacred women, keepers of the eternal fire,'' fire is frequently invoked here, as are shamans and the ancient Native American Sisterhood of the Shields. The book, based on Andews's own experiences and those of four of her ``apprentices,'' warns of symptoms of hormonal rebalancing and suggests the use of estrogen to counter osteoporosis, but also emphasizes that menopause can give ``access to the beginning of a new, beautiful way of life'' by the use of special ``sacred'' herbs; and through exercise, like tai chi; visualization; and ceremonies involving playing drums and dancing in honor of the ``Great Spirit Mother Earth.'' For some readers, Andrews may open doors; for others, her position and her proselytizing will be bunkum. Illustrated. (Sept.)