On a flight returning from Paris, a flight attendant gave us the “in the event of an emergency” instructions on how to attend to “the little chickens and babies” on board. (As if flying weren’t bad enough, now it’s a barnyard!) I smiled—clearly she meant “little children,” not “little chickens”—an understandable faux pas and an interesting slip of the tongue. After all, when it comes to air travel, many of us are still “a little chicken.” Regardless of the airline’s heartening array of entertainment gizmos and comfy slip-proof socks, our feet are hardly on the ground as we soar beyond our comfort levels. But air travel is just one of many venues that challenge us in our wish to be in control. Often in life, we have to give up some control in order to get where we want to go. A few jangled nerves are often the tradeoff for arriving at our destination.

Our personal and professional successes often hinge on our forging new departures from our old patterns. But getting things “off the ground” is often met with much psychic resistance. Whether it’s taking a much-wished for, far-flung journey or tackling a once-favorite sport, or extending your hand to a stranger in need: start tuning in to what needs to give in your life. Ask yourself what rituals have turned into “rutuals” and investigate some fresh life-enhancing possibilities that even scare you a bit. Try to see success as the ability to move in an unfamiliar, enlivening direction—not as winning. Along the way, expect a little emotional backlash and allow yourself to stumble because that’s just part of learning.

And finally, have a word with your own “Chicken Little” and kindly remind her that the sky is not falling. Perhaps, it’s just a new horizon dawning.

A renowned rejuvenator that’s rich in amino acids, royal jelly, otherwise known as the “bees’ milk,” is the substance that protects the queen bee—and we know how important she is. Honey, with its noted antibiotic, anti-inflammatory properties, has been shown to aid in the healing process of topical wounds, as well as to soften and to beautify the skin. Propolis, the resinous sap that bees collect to mix with wax in their hives, contains antibacterial properties that boost the immune system. (The spa’s warm oils mixed with the propolis can be attributed to the silkiness of the Just Bee treatment.) Quite frankly, the physical experience along with my skin’s afterglow from this deeply relaxing, therapeutic treatment is worth the trip alone.

While the extremely knowledgeable and personable spa director Carole Schor touts the numerous virtues of this indigenous treatment that was inspired by local Dominican bees, she offers a very simple at-home remedy. Schor recommends that every two weeks you just dip into the honey pot for a facial that will provide the mild exfoliation and nourishment that your skin so needs. Of course, better still, save up your dollars and experience the Just Bee and become a bee-liever like me.  www.casacolonialhotel.com

Honey Yogurt & Aloe-Vera Masque

This recipe comes from Michael Simmons, spa director at the new eco-friendly RockResorts Spa in Keystone, Colorado. This is a moisturizing masque that’s ideal for cold weather and dry climates.

•  1-2 tablespoons plain yogurt
•  1 ounce local honey
•  1 ounce aloe-vera liquid (do not use the gel because it usually contains non-natural additives, advises Simmons)

In a small bowl, mix all of the ingredients. Apply the mixture to the face and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. It may be applied cold, or for an added sensory experience, heat the mixture for 30 to 40 seconds in the microwave and, when warm, apply it to the face. Rinse with warm water.

On a flight returning from Paris, a flight attendant gave us the “in the event of an emergency” instructions on how to attend to “the little chickens and babies” on board. (As if flying weren’t bad enough, now it’s a barnyard!) I smiled—clearly she meant “little children,” not “little chickens”—an understandable faux pas and an interesting slip of the tongue. After all, when it comes to air travel, many of us are still “a little chicken.” Regardless of the airline’s heartening array of entertainment gizmos and comfy slip-proof socks, our feet are hardly on the ground as we soar beyond our comfort levels. But air travel is just one of many venues that challenge us in our wish to be in control. Often in life, we have to give up some control in order to get where we want to go. A few jangled nerves are often the tradeoff for arriving at our destination.

Our personal and professional successes often hinge on our forging new departures from our old patterns. But getting things “off the ground” is often met with much psychic resistance. Whether it’s taking a much-wished for, far-flung journey or tackling a once-favorite sport, or extending your hand to a stranger in need: start tuning in to what needs to give in your life. Ask yourself what rituals have turned into “rutuals” and investigate some fresh life-enhancing possibilities that even scare you a bit. Try to see success as the ability to move in an unfamiliar, enlivening direction—not as winning. Along the way, expect a little emotional backlash and allow yourself to stumble because that’s just part of learning.

And finally, have a word with your own “Chicken Little” and kindly remind her that the sky is not falling. Perhaps, it’s just a new horizon dawning.