One of my favorites when it gets chilly is a home-made heat pack. Did you know? Putting together these few simple household items can help soothe a tense neck/back, cramps, or cold belly.

What you will need:

1 pair new socks (preferably the long type that goes up to your calf or knee) 🧦
dry, uncooked rice or beans

Directions:

Simply pour enough dry uncooked rice or beans in to the sock, remember to leave about 6-8 inches off the top. Use the open end of the sock to tie a knot like in the photo. Repeat with the other sock. You can then put it in the microwave for about a minute to warm (length of time will vary depending on your microwave). Check temperature, make sure it's not too hot. (Tip: if it's too hot, grab one end of the sock and let the filling move from one end to the other, hold the sock by the other end and repeat this a few times. Moving it like this helps evenly disperse the heat and avoid hot spots.) Voila! You now have two reusable home-made heat packs. Reheat in microwave whenever you feel a chill. ❄️🥶

Heat/warmth is a great way to soothe the body, like cuddling up in a warm blanket or warm drink. Heat is great therapy when you’ve been outside on a windy/cold day and start feeling the chills; wear this heat pack around your neck. Working on the computer lots and have tense/stiff shoulders? Use this heat pack on your shoulders. Added bonus of this heat pack is that its got a little bit of weight to it, which also feels soothing and may help bring awareness to your posture. Stomachache? Cramping? Poor digestion? All of these discomforts can be aided by wearing this heat pack on your belly while sitting.