Book Recommendation
Rushing Woman’s Syndrome, Dr. Libby Weaver, 2010, 2017
How I found it
I bought this book in 2017 when I was definitely a rushing woman. Like so many of my books, I think I came across it via an article I’d read. I realise now that I was navigating a range of perimenopause symptoms alongside a very stressful and busy time personally and professionally when I first read this.
Some of it completely resonated, some of the recommendations in it I implemented, some of them I was too wired at the time to acknowledge. But now I’m a counsellor, rushing woman’s syndrome is something I recognise much more. And as October is Menopause Awareness Month, I thought it would be a good time to recommend this book.
What it’s about
Dr Libby Weaver may describe herself as a nutritional biochemist but don’t think this book is all about food. She talks directly to all women who are rushing in their lives and provides the lowdown on how this crazy busy lifestyle impacts all aspects of their health and wellbeing.
Drawing on close to 20 years of experience, she writes in a reasoned, approachable and easy to read style. The book may have been originally published in 2010 before launching in the UK in 2017, but Dr, Libby’s advice stands the test of time. She explains the science and symptoms in simple terms and her advice on what to do differently and how to create positive change is clear and straightforward.
Why I’m recommending it
In my counselling practice and amongst friends and associates, I regularly see how many women don’t know how to rest. They are constantly on the go. Usually putting other people’s needs and demands ahead of their own, whilst berating themselves for not getting more done.
I see how this behaviour has built up over time and created emotional, mental and physical issues. Some of these issues have raised their heads and are causing difficulties. Others are playing out behind the scenes, being overlooked in all the pushing on and putting their own needs last.
This book provides the intelligence on what the consequences of being a rushing woman can be and provides you with understanding and suggestions to begin doing things differently. It’s a way of understanding the impact of your lifestyle on your mind and body and how you can better support yourself.
Who should read it
This book would be useful for any woman who feels that they don’t have enough hours in the day. If you’re unable to rest – I mean properly chill out – read this book.
It is also a valuable guide for women who want to get a better understanding of how stress really does impact the body.
All too often, women are great at putting their own needs last. But the demands of our busy lives take their toll in ways that aren’t always obvious initially. What starts out as unseen grows over time and can lead to burnout or other more serious health conditions.
Reading this book can give you knowledge and insight to help you choose how you want to live differently.
A note
Dr Libby Weaver works in Australia and New Zealand and has written a number of books on women’s health and nutrition. You can find out more via her website: drlibby.com and her blog contains lots of articles about key issues for women’s wellbeing.
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