Relaxation and Guest Bloggers

How are you doing on your resolutions, so far?

I have to tell you, my quitting smoking has really not gone well. I thought perhaps I had more willpower, but it seems I was wrong. It has been said that it is easier to quit using heroin than to quit using nicotine. The amount I smoke has gone down, except in times of stress.

So, how about a little stress reduction? Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to help alleviate stress. Lavender is said to calm and soothe, but personally I think that any scent that brings back comfortable memories will reduce stress. For me, this is cinnamon. A simpler time, an apple pie in the over, and Grandma puttering in the kitchen. What could be more comforting than that?

If you would like to experience a quick, calming lift of the spirits, just fill a pot with water and place it on your stove. Heat to a boil, then drop in enough of your favorite herb to fill your home with a lovely scent. The amount of herb or spice will depend on the size of your home and your preferences. I have a large house and I use a little under a tablespoon of cinnamon with a dash each of cloves, allspice, and nutmeg.

Speaking of comfort and relaxation, I would like to introduce all of you to the Guest Blogger for this month, Stacey Graham. Stacey will give you more to read and love here at Family Resource, so get comfortable and relax with a cup of hot tea while she offers insight and advice. (Trust me, she is a mother of 5 who hasn’t gone crazy yet, she has loads of family information!)