I've always scoffed at aromatherapy. I know scent has the ability to evoke clear memories. A whiff of Charlie(tm) perfume brings back 1976, instantly (not always a happy moment, but memory isn't selective). Given my background of no exposure to medicine or homeopathy, I never quite believed a combination of essential oils could have any effect on me other than to, well, smell real nice for a while. I was wrong. This stuff works.

Devoted readers may recall I began a skin-care program in January. It's been miraculous; my skin has become healthy and clear and I look 100% better. So I wandered back to the Origins counter to look for some makeup, figuring they knew their stuff about skin. It turns out they also do sensory therapy gels. The gal at the counter rubbed a gel on the back of my neck, temples, and earlobes which was meant to bring peace of mind. She then helped me with my makeup choices. I noticed my jaw muscles relaxing and thought, hey, not bad for something that smells mostly of spearmint. I picked out some foundation and for the heck of it asked about some aromatherapy for relaxation. I bought the muscle easer and the peace of mind gel.

I have slept for a full 8 hours three nights in a row now. My jaw and neck are relaxed when I wake up. I think it's darned impressive. I am definitely going to go back for the stress reliever bath oil. I've been trying to cope with so much stress over where we'll be moving this year that I nearly forgot what it was like to have that much uninterrupted sleep and a body that isn't a taut bundle of nerves. I highly recommend running out to the nearest botanica or herbalist and picking up a little something for what ails you. On top of everything else, you'll smell great.

Now, if I can just convince the cats that I'm not drenched in catnip.