Can This Body Lotion Really Relieve Our Anxiety?

True story — a few weeks ago, I worked with Aveda on a photo shoot, and the next day I received a package of products with a very nice note from my point person there. The items were from the brand's Stress-Fix line. I had to take the hint. While no one has ever called me "chill," I was slightly embarrassed that my tension on the shoot reached palpable proportions. But, ever the anxious creature, I went ahead and tried all the products she sent me, because I'm into anything that promises to fix my stress naturally. Suffice to say, this aromatherapy line is nothing short of wonderful.

Specifically, the Stress-Fix Body Lotion, which contains lavender, lavandin, and clary sage, has become one of my desk product staples. And, not just for me — my entire row uses it. In fact, it smells so good that every single time I put it on, someone nearby inquires what the smell is and asks to try some. I'd take it home, but I worry about what would happen to me and my office neighbors if we didn't have this topical anxiety relief on hand. Luckily, the lotion is light enough to apply multiple times a day.

While it might not actually relieve anxiety (at least in the medical sense), it smells like how being calm feels. And, sometimes that's enough to remind us that serenity is possible. Hey, baby steps, right?

The rest of the Stress-Fix products are definitely worth checking out, too. Unfortunately, I lack a bathtub, so the soaking salts were wasted on me, but the concentrated rollerball applicator has become a permanent part of my life — a life that now smells faintly of lavender.

Aveda Stress-Fix Body Lotion, $29.50, available at Aveda.