| For most of us, our job requires us to sit at the | | | | Lay both pieces of material on top of one another, |
| computer for a large majority of the day, which | | | | and then fold in half, length ways. |
| causes neck and shoulder strain for many people. To | | | | Sew the edges together, leaving one end partly open |
| help relieve tension, try using aromatherapy neck | | | | for the filling. Wheat, grains (except corn kernels) and |
| wraps. | | | | rice can all be used to fill the sleeve. Place your |
| These items are made to sit around your neck and | | | | choice of filling into a bowl, and add either fresh |
| across the back of your shoulders and filled with | | | | lavender, or your favorite essential oils (lavender, |
| variations of rice, buckwheat and flax seed, along | | | | chamomile, lemongrass and rosemary are great for |
| with pure essential oils, neck wraps sooth tired | | | | both relaxation and relieving stress). Try getting a |
| muscles through a combination of heat and | | | | book about aromatherapy to learn about the |
| aromatherapy. | | | | different effects of the essential oils available on the |
| Simply place one of these wraps in the microwave, | | | | market. |
| and heat according to the instructions (usually | | | | Sew the opening together, and you've just created |
| between 30 seconds and 1 minute and 30 seconds). | | | | your own personal wrap. You may want to consider |
| For moist heat, simply spray it lightly with water | | | | making a cover, as its not possible to wash the fabric |
| before heating in the microwave. | | | | containing the filling. |
| Aromatherapy neck wraps can often be bought | | | | When not using it, simply place the wrap in the |
| from health food or holistic stores that stock other | | | | freezer. This helps the scent to remain longer, and as |
| products. There are also many online retailers that | | | | an added benefit, can double as an ice pack. |
| stock neck wraps, and you can typically save some | | | | Of course, you are not limited to making, or buying, |
| money buying directly from them. However, unless | | | | neck wraps. Larger, pillow style versions are also |
| you decide to make one yourself, you will be limited | | | | available, which are great for the back, stomach and |
| in choice when it comes to the essential oils used in | | | | leg areas. Even if you don't notice the tension in your |
| the creation process. | | | | neck and shoulders, take the time to heat an |
| If you would prefer to create you own tailored | | | | aromatherapy neck wrap, and you're bound to notice |
| scent, consider making a wrap for yourself. Use | | | | a difference. It takes very little effort, but you'll |
| flannel or 100% muslin and cut two identical pieces to | | | | notice a big impact. |
| the length you desire, but double the desired width. | | | | |