Looking at the name of this shop one might wonder what is an "aroma-pothecary". Well, the two root words that form the word are aroma (obviously meaning scent) and apothecary (meaning one who sells healing concoctions) gives a really good overall view of what the conglomerate means. Aromatherapy is a practice that has been gaining in popularity for a while, and indeed, Cleo's can definitely be a good source for needs that one might have in the pursuit of that endeavor. The shop is a lot more than that, though.

They offer minerals, jewelry, music, gifts, books, massage therapy (from licensed practitioners), organic herbs, t-shirts and much more. In fact according to Sarah Johnson (daughter of owners Kathleen and Warren), Cleo's has, "something for everybody from all aspects of life". Indeed, looking at their selection of books it is easy to see that whether you are on a path of physical or spiritual healing, they have something that will help you along any chosen path. Really, much of the focus of the shop is about healing, and in general feeling good about yourself. They even offer classes in various studies.

Among the therapy that they offer are three practices that might be new to many people - craniosacral therapy, reflexology and reiki. Craniosacral therapy focuses on "balancing your natural rhythm for optimum health". According to an instructional pamphlet it is "a unique and powerful bodywork technique". Its focus is "a gentle hands on method for enhancing the body's own healing capabilities through the craniosacral rhythm. What is "craniosacral rhythm" you might ask. It is explained as "the cyclical 'wave' of the cerebrospinal fluid which ebbs and flows within the membrane around the brain and spinal cord". The reported benefits of this therapy are enhancement of nervous system function, improved circulation, treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and help with emotional problems.

Reflexology is "an ancient healing art for today's stresses". This practice focuses on the feet because; "we have over 7000 nerve endings in the soles of our feet". Reflexology is said to be a complementary care as part of a holistic approach to healing. It is used to improve general health and work in tandem with other techniques to decrease pain and other forms of body tension.

Reiki is "the gentle healing art". The name comes from the Japanese word meaning universal life energy. It is described as "a non-intrusive method of hands on healing that taps into the energy referred to bye philosophers and martial artists as 'ki' in Japan, 'chi'in China and 'prana' in India." The practice is "based on the teachings of a Japanese man, Mikao Usui, who taught and practiced Reiki in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries." However, his technique seems to have its roots in ancient Buddhist sutras and teachings. It is further explained as "a technique that addresses both chronic and acute conditions, gently and powerfully promoting balance among all the body's systems and the normal regenerative processes of the body and mind." Its practitioners say that it "alleviates pain and stress and promotes restful sleep, healing and relaxation".

So, whether you want to come in for one of their therapy sessions, take a class to learn one of the techniques or just shop, Cleo's Aroma-Pothecary should have something for you. They are located at 1410 N. Main Street. You can give them a call at 966-1240 for more information. Who can't use some healing in today's world? It's nice to find a shop that is focused on making you feel good.