In need of some rest and relaxation? Learn how to make your own DIY Aromatherapy Heat Pack to use on sore muscles, to soothe headaches or just to chill out and indulge in some me-time.
You Will Need:
- Your favourite RAWW Pure Essential Oil or Quick Fix Vibe Blend
- 1 x packet of dry, uncooked white rice
- Medium-sized metal mixing bowl and mixing spoon
- 400mm x 150mm piece of cut muslin cloth
- 400mm x 150mm piece of cut cotton with your fave print
- Loose sewing pins
- Fabric scissors
- Sewing machine OR the determination and commitment needed to hand-sew things yourself
STEP 1: Constructing The Inner Heat Bag
Take your 400mm x 150mm piece of muslin cloth and fold it in half lengthways. Using the loose sewing pins, block out a 3cm thick hem along the two long edges, leaving the short edge of the bag open so you can insert your aromatherapy-infused rice later. Use the sewing machine to sew together the long edges of the bag with a solid, continuous stitch (so no rice can escape). Trim any excess fabric down with scissors, no closer than ½ cm on the outside of the stitch line. Remove the loose sewing pins. Place the muslin bag to one side.
STEP 2: Constructing The Outer Casing For The Heat Pack
Take your 400mm x 150mm cut patterned cotton and fold it in half lengthways. Using more loose sewing pins, block out a 1cm thick hem along the two long edges, leaving the short edge of the bag open so you can insert your inner heat bag in later. Use your sewing machine to sew together the long edges of the bag with a solid, continuous stitch. Neaten any edges with fabric scissors, being careful not to cut too close to the stitch line. Remove any loose sewing pins. Place the cotton outer casing to one side.
STEP 3: Create Your Customised Heat Bag Scent
Take the medium mixing bowl and place at the ready. Pick up your muslin bag and prepare to fill with white rice. Using the dry, uncooked white rice, fill up the muslin bag to around ¾ full. Without sealing off the bag, place the quantity of white rice into the mixing bowl. Using a total of 20-30 drops, take your favourite RAWW Pure Essential Oils or blends and combine with the white rice using a mixing spoon. Cover the mixing bowl with the muslin and patterned cotton bags and leave to sit for 24 hours.
RAWW Customised Scents to Try:
- Relax and chillax – RAWW Zen Time Essential Oil Blend + Frankinscence Pure Essential Oil
- For a better night’s sleep – RAWW Lavender Pure Essential Oil
- Over-done-it at the gym – RAWW Lemongrass Pure Essential Oil, Orange Pure Essential Oil and Lime Pure Essential Oil
- Feeling blue – RAWW Pep Up Essential Oil Blend
- Back pains or headache – RAWW Happy Place Essential Oil Blend + Peppermint Pure Essential Oil
STEP 4: Sewing Up The Inner Heat Bag
Take your essential oil infused white rice and carefully tip back into the muslin bag. Being careful to keep the rice-filled bag upright, use back to back loose sewing pins to create a continuous 2cm hem to close off the bag. Carefully sew the final edge of the muslin bag together to secure the rice within. Place the sealed muslin inner heat bag to one side.
STEP 5: Completing The Heat Bag
Take your rice-filled music inner heat bag and gently insert it into the end of the patterned cotton outer casing. Shake to position the inner bag squarely within the outer casing. Once you’re happy with the placement, use the loose sewing pins to complete the final hem for your heat bag. Carefully sew the final edge of the heat bag together, encasing the rice-filled muslin inner bag within. Trim away any excess fabric outside the stitch line using fabric scissors, and your aromatherapy-infused heat pack is ready to use!
Using your Heat Pack
Place a half glass of water into the microwave with your heat pack. Heat for 30 seconds at a time (to prevent burning the rice), until the desired temperature is reached – being careful not to overheat the rice. Remove from the microwave and place your heat bag on your back, neck or any other affected area that could use some lovin’ (WARNING: be sure to check the temperature so you don’t burn yourself!). Sit back and enjoy the warmth, comfort (sense of achievement) and aromatherapy-goodness of your new heat pack.
These simple heat packs also make SUPER GOOD gifts for family and friends!