(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jennie Garth says she has been "reborn" this year.

The former Beverly Hills, 90210 actress has faced major changes during 2012, including a divorce from Twilight star Peter Facinelli and reaching the age of 40.

Having lost weight and transformed her look, Jennie now feels she can focus on the positive aspects of her life.

"[2012] has been a bit of a rebirth for me as a person by shedding that negative space and all the pain associated with that time," she told People magazine.

Jennie used the time alone to focus on "taking better care" of herself and shedding "30lbs. of dead weight".

Despite worries earlier in the year that she had slimmed down too much, the actress insists she has never felt better.

"It definitely feels like a great time in my life," she enthused.

"Even through the ups and downs, I'm happy. I'm thankful to be alive."

Jennie and Peter have three children together, Luca, Lola and Fiona. (C) Cover Media