We are just getting over our yearly winter cold in our house and one thing we love to have on hand when we are feeling icky is our aromatherapy neck wrap! We got ours at a local Fred Meyers a year or so ago in the spa section, but I have heard tutorials about making these at home. If you dont know what aromatherapy neck wraps are, they are heatable packets made of cloth and filled with different aromatherapy oils, herbs, and fillers such as rice, wheat grass, flax seed or beans. They used as a comforting spa essential to relax the neck, shoulders and can soothe areas by heating up the wrap in the microwave to relieve tight muscles. Below are some picture examples that I found on Flickr under Earth Angel Studios photo stream along with the basic directions and supplies for making your own! These are also great in larger forms for foot wraps, back wraps, eye wraps, and anyother area you need comfort. Try putting the wrap in the freezer for a soothing treat in the summer!
Supplies:
- 2 pieces of cloth of choice in the shape of a rectangle to shape snug around your neck ( polar fleece, terry cloth, flannel, wool)
- 1-5 drops of essential oils of choice ( Examples of some that are good for relaxation: lavender, peppermint, chamomile, lemongrass, cinnamon, rosewood, eucalyptus, grapefruit pink, tangerine, sandalwood)
- Filler of choice ( dry rice, buckwheat, millet seed, flax seed or beans)
- Additional fillers if desired ( spices, cloves, cinnamon or herbs)
Directions:
1. Cut desired fabric for wrap into two rectangular pieces long enough to fit snug around your neck.
2. Sew around the edges to close. You need to allow about 1/4” on each side extra to allow for the seams.
3. Fill in filler, oils, and herbs of choice
4. Sew the wrap completely so nothing can fall out.
5. Heat in the microwave for approx. 1-2 minutes in 30 second increments, the inside fillers can burst or burn. If you desire a cold wrap, place your neck wrap in the freezer so it will be cold when you need it. Great for the hot summer days!
A few other helpful sites in making your own!
