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On The Table Read, “The Best Book Reader Magazine in the UK“, founder of Meera’s Made From Scratch, Meera, shares details about her new book on women’s health, featuring recipes and advice, Don’t Pause For Menopause.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Meera about her work, what inspires her, and her new book, Don’t Pause For Menopause.
Tell me a bit about who you are:
I’m Meera, the founder of the healthy food brand Meera’s Made from Scratch, which I created after realising much of the gluten and dairy-free food I needed to eat contained far too much sugar. My passion for cooking resulted in delicious recipes and product creations.
I also runs an 8 weeks guided menopause programme and am hugely passionate about raising awareness of menopause, especially within South Asian communities where it is often not spoken about openly.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
Since I started my menopause programme in 2020, I realised that a book would a great way to increase the accessibility of the ideas and knowledge I wanted to share. I wanted to share my menopause journey and everything that’s helped along the way to reach as many women going through this as possible.
When did you take a step to start writing?
It took me a bit longer to start the writing process-I began in 2021.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
6 months from start to finish.
What made you want to write Don’t Pause For Menopause?
It came from a desire to raise awareness about menopause and also to give women practical advice and tips on how food and lifestyle can help. Plus share some delicious easy to make recipes that the whole family can enjoy! I really don’t think menopause is spoken about enough and really want to change that.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Don’t Pause For Menopause?
The time needed for each part- from coming up with the perfect recipes to photography and making sure every part was perfect!
What was your research process for Don’t Pause For Menopause?
My work means I speak to women about menopause day in day out, so that helped hugely! I also of course reflected on my lived experience too. I also talked to the team of people who support me. I spoke to two of my employees who really helped with the writing process and graphics.
How did you plan the structure of Don’t Pause For Menopause?
I thought about how I would want this book to be (after all, I am its target audience too!) if I was buying it and using it.
I structured it by beginning with my personal journey and menopause info, then following on with recipes which I broke down into different categories (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks). I added a meal planning template at the end to make it as practical as possible.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Don’t Pause For Menopause need?
Yes I did get some support but it didn’t need too much editing.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?
Write down a skeleton and just build on that in stages. It doesn’t feel as scary that way if you do it in small steps. If you have a vision and can’t put that into words, speak to someone who can! There are lots of amazing people out there who can help you bring your dream into a reality!
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I would love to write a cookery book, and some other guides to optimal health for people with PCOS, IBS, Crohn’s and a book for foods to promote gut health.
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Oh absolutely! It’s given me an appetite to do more.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
You can find my book here: https://meerasmadefromscratch.co.uk/product/menopause-e-book/
Our site here: https://meerasmadefromscratch.co.uk/
We are @meerasmadefromscratch on Instagram
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