Smells Like Home

My daughter has keyed into her father's use of the Glade plug-in scents. I just read that Ohio State University is looking at the health benefits of aromatherapy. The jury is still out on whether scents have quantifiable physical measures (or positive effects) on stress hormones, heart rate, pain, or immune-system activity. Psychologically, after an hour, testers note:

• Citrus scents to lift mood
• Chamomile to soothe irritation
  
• Lavender for relaxation and to increase deep sleep
• Fresh-cut grass or pine to remind of summertime and childhood
• Ylang-ylang, jasmine and patchouli to calm down
• Rosemary, sandalwood or bergamot to relieve fear and exhaustion
  
• Roses or lilac blossoms to alleviate anger and anxiety

Pharmacist Jim Avedikian at the Phoenix Wellness Center recommends, "Peppermint oil rubbed on the forehead and gently massaged into the temples can relieve migraines." If I do hang something infused with bergamot essential oils around my neck (burn candles or incense), can he guarantee happiness?

Crayon Colors

Last weekend, I listened to the unabridged audiobook version of The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. Having won the parent lottery and having been blessed with intellectual muscle, he was extremely grateful to have achieved his childhood dreams. He counts being a mentor to up-and-coming recovering jerks a great purpose in his life. Randy espoused his love for crayons and requested parents to let their children paint their bedroom walls as a favor to him.

So looking at our vanilla walls and oatmeal world, here's some color meanings to ponder:

1. RED gets one excited, raising blood pressure and heart rate.
2. ORANGE imbues living spaces with warmth and energy.
3. YELLOW captures the joy of sunshine and communicates happiness.
4. GREEN is considered the most restful color for the eyes.
5. BLUE relaxes, bringing down blood pressure and slowing heart rate.
6. PURPLE is associated with luxury and creativity.

More mood enhancers can be found at _____________