*The Muse* is a refreshing and empowering exploration of aging and sexuality. Rather than fearing the passage of time, the book flips the script, celebrating the freedom and confidence that come with embracing one's evolving self. Its honest portrayal of the beauty and complexity of growing older is both uplifting and thought-provoking. A powerful reminder that aging doesn't diminish our worth or desires, but rather enhances them.

Dr. Amanda Hanson's Muse: The Magnetism of Women Who Stop Abandoning Themselves is supposed to be a transformative and inspiring book that encourages women to reclaim their true selves and embrace their inherent power. Unfortunately, that does not line up with the book I just read.




The book does dive into the historical and societal structures that have kept women confined to roles defined by patriarchal norms. Dr. Hanson challenges these norms and offers practical rituals and practices to help women reconnect with their inner Muse and build authentic and fulfilling lives.

Where I would have really dissected how to overcome the limitations the patriarchy has placed on women and how to combat it for future women, Dr. Hanson goes on tangents about not putting poisons in our body and how Western medicine was created by men, therefore it's harmful to women.

I understand her sentiment that "our bodies know best". However, from personal experience, that is not always the case. Dr. Hanson proudly states that her clients go off all their anti-depressants and anxiety meds when they realize their emotions are real and valid. This may be true in some cases, many mental health conditions can be maintained with consistent therapy and techniques, however, science says that this isn't always the case.

Dr. Hanson conveniently only quotes science when it's convenient for her argument. She then encourages the reader to self-reflect and listen to your body's inner compass. But then continues on with the assumption we came to her conclusion. It's like it's inconceivable to her that someone can look at the same evidence and come up with a different opinion than hers. That was when I lost all respect.

While there are some good exercises in the book like the mirror reflections and rewording belief structures. It feels more like a soapbox than a self-help. I would have liked it much better if there was less about how she cured her son's deadly allergies by going to some self-trained herbalist and more thorough exercises on challenging unhealthy ideologies.

Now if you are just entering the phase in your life when you are uncomfortable with the concept of aging and want to begin challenging some patriarchal beliefs. This may be an option, but personally, there are better options out there if you don't want to be preached to.