Too much caffeine can keep you up at night, but coffee may have the power to lull you to sleep—as long as you inhale its aroma.

A team of international researchers found that the scent of roasted coffee beans calmed stressed and sleep-deprived rats. Their research was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

“The results of this study allowed us to improve our knowledge involved in relationships among coffee bean aroma, brain function and stress via sleep deprivation,” the authors write.

Further studies are needed to identify the compounds responsible for initiating a relaxation response.

In the meantime, pour yourself a cup of organic coffee and inhale deeply!

Listen up, fellow females! 

As we race through busy schedules and cope with a troubled economy, most of us are skimping on simple pleasures and putting our needs at the bottom of the to-do list. 

According to a survey commissioned by Edwards desserts, 90% of us have cut back on indulgences over the last year. In addition: 

• 59% of survey respondents said they’re decreasing the number of events planned with friends.
• 35% are cutting back on even the smallest treats, such as manicures and desserts.
• 94% admitted they handle commitments and other people’s needs before indulging or treating themselves.
• 6% said finances have prevented them from treating themselves as often as they’d like.
• 32% said they have less free time than they did a year ago. 

With the winter holidays fast approaching, enjoying a little “me time” becomes even more difficult. 

“Self-pampering may seem like the last thing on your mind these days, but treating yourself to something special is so critical to relieving the stress of everyday life,” says Heather Reider, cohost of MomsTown Radio.

Bring Nature Indoors 

Nurture your organic spirit by bringing nature indoors, Reider recommends. Cultivate a container garden—either a window box, urn, basket or round fish bowl. 

Display indoors a Bonsai plant, orchid, robust green plant, herbs or tulips. These work well in chilly weather, providing lovely floral aromas and some welcome color on a dark, dreary day.

Playtime! 

Take up an art or other creative project. Spend time painting, drawing, making jewelry or knitting.

Nurture Your Organic Spirit 

• Girlfriend Getaways
• Be Happy—For No Reason!
• Kids Don’t Work Out; They Play
• The Late-Afternoon Binge
• Do the Potter…

Photo courtesy of Fotolia/Edwards