Aromatic Rituals: Let your mind slowly drift and picture yourself in an era many years ago...in the 1st century B.C. in Egypt. Cleopatra was setting sail on the Nile with her entourage, her handmaidens busily scenting her sails with jasmine to announce her presence to her adoring multitudes. Of course, any prospective suitors she might encounter along the way would be intoxicated by the luxurious aromas wafting through the air. Cleopatra and other members of the royal family had their own priest perfumers, who deigned the exclusive right to create scent for rituals, religious events, lovemaking, childbirth and remedies for various maladies. Since Cleopatra felt she was above all that, she also created her own scents and cosmetics. Because she was the Queen, they did not cause friction by trying to stop her. For her, perfume was sacred, but it was also one of her main tools used to ensnare and entrap everyone from lovers to confidantes and servants. It was her preferred method of seduction. She oozed self confidence and power, and the fragrances she wore enhanced that sexual power even more.

Clearing clutter for holistic health: We know that health and wellness are the result of several elements: a good diet, plenty of clean water, regular exercise, and fresh air. Herbs, essential oils, and other dietary supplements help us deal with life's challenges. There are, however, many less-than-obvious influences in our everyday environments that can negatively affect our health, too. Clutter, for example. Collecting stuff, the intent to clear out stuff, and the seemingly unavoidable procrastination to "get the job done" can all be a real drain on your energy.

Staying Healthy Using Essential Oils rich in 1,8 cineole: Certain essential oil components provide an impressively wide range of well-researched therapeutic properties. 1,8 cineole stands out as a particularly effective chemical component worth considering in your aromatherapy blending-especially during the winter season.

Throughout the history of spiritual practice, fragrance is repeatedly associated with the Divine. Aromas are an invisible expression of love and spirit. Aroma, prayer, and meditation are all cross-cultural and languages of no words...and move us to a place of stillness and solitude. It is no wonder we find them together since the beginning of time. As we all yearn to commune with God and place ourselves in the presence of the Divine, combining our concentration with a sense of wonderment can be greatly assisted by fragrance and aroma. We strive to transcend our worldly concerns, be still, and find the Holy Joy of the innocent. It is by grace that we are given these momentary releases from restlessness and the mundane.

Scents and Flavors for the Autumn Season: Autumn is upon us and here in New England it is the fall foliage that draws many people to this area of the country for leaf peeping. It is also the time of year when we start to think of the warming herbs, spices and scents. The last day of this month is when children and adults alike celebrate Halloween. For an alternative to the regular trick-or-treat candy, consider hosting a Halloween party offering a selection of harvest/seasonal delectables. One of the main courses could be pumpkin or squash soup that includes seasonal apples. All of our orange vegetables and fruits are loaded with beta-carotene and Vitamin A. I always include spices such as ginger and nutmeg for flavoring. You could also include or substitute with clove, cardamom and cinnamon. Being an herbalist as well as an aromatherapist, I alternate between using fresh or dried herbs as well as essential oils. But remember a little bit goes a long way.