The Elixir of Life

It's hard to believe that summer break is over. Now everyone is yanking themselves out of the vacation mode and back to school. Parents have spent August scrambling to collect everything on the back-to-school list; while college kids have worked hard all summer only to hand their savings over for tuition, expensive text books and a U-Haul truck. Needless to say, it's a stressful time with move-in dates, tuition deadlines, cost of supplies, and not to mention, the mere newness of everything involved in beginning another school year.

Although schedules are hectic, it's important to take time to stop doing so much. In order to maintain good health, our bodies need to find balance in the midst of chaos. Set aside time to get a massage or meditate in a peaceful place. Aromatics are very helpful for relaxation. Put a few drops of essential oil in your bath water at home. However, not every essential oil is meant for a relaxing bath, so you must do your "homework" before you choose which aroma to soak in.

There are various aromatics available to help ease the mind and soothe the body of stress and anxiety; one in particular is called Melissa Officinalis. It is better known as sweet balm or lemon balm. This bushy perennial is of the mint family and smells like lemons. Contrary to the energizing lemongrass aroma, lemon balm calms the mind and body, as well as unburdens the soul. For years it has been known as the uplifting and calming cure for "melancholia". Lemon balm has properties that are tonic and antispasmodic which are helpful in treating colds, allergies, diarrhoea, hypertension, menstrual problems, migraine and stress headaches, nausea, and palpitations. Years ago the Swiss physician Paracelsus deemed it as the "elixir of life". I'm sure you can see why.

If you are curious about learning more about this, stop by Zen3 Spa and Bodyworks and check out our lemon balm plant! And while you are there, take time to unwind with a 60 minute massage. Trust me. It will make a difference in your busy life.