TIME TO DE-STRESS
“Peel an orange. Studies show the smell of citrus can help reduce stress.”
Huff Post
Ok folks, it’s time to de-stress. Those of us going through a divorce seem to be a reservoir for stress. I never had any unhealthy anxiety or depression issues until I was blindsided by marital separation after decades of marriage. On one stress index scale, divorce rates the second highest stressor, with the death of a spouse being first. I don’t know that I agree with that because I say …
“Divorce is like a death but with intent.”
kathieyvwriter.com
I don’t have an orange, but I believe that many scents can enhance our mood and thus decrease our stress. The Cleveland Clinic states that “aromatherapy can improve our mood and lessen anxiety.” Let’s see what I can find to sniff…Brodie and I took off on a walk to enjoy the scents that nature provides. I enjoyed the smell of freshly cut grass and the aroma of the Magnolia flowers on the trees…I did find myself to be relaxed as I wandered and breathed in the perfumed air.
Brodie did not seem to be impressed with the flowers or the grass…this was more his speed. I used to tell my kids that “everybody likes different things.” Case in point with Brodie:-)
I have never had luck with finding perfumes that I love, but I now have found two. Stephanie and I ventured to Nordstrom to check out the options. We both fell in love with Beach by Bobbi Brown. Every time I put it on, it brings up memories of the beach…good memories, and thus it is a stress reliever.
The second one I enjoy is Star Magnolia by Jo Malone. Such a light, fresh scent. I see a trend here. Enjoying magnolia flowers and now magnolia perfume. I never even realized I liked them.
If you feel a bit stressed out, I suggest you close your eyes and slowly breathe in the scent of your choice.  I can’t make that decision for you, because as you have learned from Brodie, everybody likes different things:-)
Remember, you are not alone, and you are stronger than you think!
God Bless,
KathieyV
