Serenity - that calm soothing sensation that we catch glimpses of every once in awhile in the hectic, fast paced lives. Sometimes wishing for even five minutes to do nothing. What does this tranquility search have to do with herbs for everyday health? A healthy body includes a healthy mind and spirit. Herbs can play a huge role in physical, mental and emotional well being creating a healthy body in all three aspects.

Using herbs simply just for restorative health benefits alone misses the true value. The Japanese have long recognized the need to celebrate the person when using herbs best seen through the elaborate tea ceremony. The making and drinking of any herbal tea should almost me a ritual in itself to obtain the full value of the herb. Many herbs actually contain properties that can assist in the dissipation of tension and promote relaxation. Whether the herbs are used as an herbal tea remedy or as an aromatherapy. In either method, the herb itself is only part of the process. How a person processes the herb has a lot to do with how they prepare it. Enjoying the aroma of tea steeping, the sounds of water boiling, or even the sound of running water mixed with the aromatic smells should all be part of the process. It is the slowing down part that promotes and allows the herbs to work their "magic".

For most, slowing down is an art form lost long ago. When we are stressed or nervous and filled with tension, to sit down an enjoy even savor a cup of tea is part of caring for our bodies as well as our minds and spirits. There are some herbs that actually promote the process of calming down and relaxing.

Chamomile since the early 19th century has been used to calm the nerves and promote deep relaxation.

Lavender can be used both as a tea and as aromatherapy. It works to calm the entire nervous system.

Lemon balm can calm tension filled muscles and aid in sleep when insomnia strikes. It can also relieve those tension headaches either as a tea or in a hot bath.

Oatstraw is popular for tension headaches, sleeplessness, and nervous exhaustion. Its mild sedative properties make for a wonderful sleepy time tea.

Passionflower also has sedation properties when drank as a tea. It also can relieve many of the symptoms of PMS.

Skullcap is known to nourish the nervous system and the tea can relieve tension headaches, anxiety and exhaustion.

All of these herbs can promote tranquility and create an atmosphere within that is calm and serene. Take you time. Whether you are preparing a tea or a bath, allow yourself to be part of the process. Light some candles and practice some deep breathing. The herbs can promote but you need to promote as well.