With all the stresses that we have to face in life today; world wars, famine, heinous crimes, prices soaring beyond your income. At the end of the day we want to be able to totally relax so that we can be refreshed for the next day. There are many ways to do this without pharmaceuticals, alcohol or “smokes”.

One of my favorites is aromatherapy. By burning incense sticks that’s been dipped in natural oils such as sandalwood, rose, frankincense, lavender are the most soothing scents. These scents can also be purchased as oils and used with an oil burner. Best purchased from a novelty shop not the grocery store. What is sold in the grocery store is not safe as it is made with chemicals that can affect breathing and may even cause headaches.

Herbal teas like chamomile, passionflower, kava kava , raspberry can be sweetened with honey. Try sipping the tea by candlelight which is very soothing. The best candle to use are pastels and white as they give off the most light; darker candles will not illuminate as much and may have an adverse effect.

Soaking in very warm bath water filled with your favorite scented oils and/or bubble bath by candlelight while listening to sounds of nature - birds, waterfalls, rainstorm. New age or Native American drum or flute sounds are most relaxing. When you step out of the tub, try using scented body oils as its’ scent is more powerful than that of lotion.

Of course, there is always indulgence, better know as, spoiling ourselves. Full-body massage doesn’t cost much; if you have a “partner” its free, right? I enjoy nature, so I visit the zoo, aquarium and our new insectarium, walking through the parks after the sun is waaaay down. Also love museums as I enjoy history. Visiting antique shops are another favorite of mine; old lamps, jewelry, picture frames and the most interesting part are the owners and all the great stories that go with the items you picked out. . I like going to the airport and watching planes take off and land, riding New Orleans’ famous streetcar, horseback riding. Then there’s always the internet; I love to read and play games. Comedy always helps, how I love comedy; movies, comic strips, books-Paul Reiser is an excellent comedy writer and is very hilarious and underrated. There’s the comedy of Jim Carrey and Bernie Mac.