Every season of nature and life brings it’s own aches and pains whether from cold weather, snow shoveling, winter/summer sports, injury, exercise or stress. This Homemade Heating Pad is perfect for easing those sore shoulders and other tight muscles. It’s filled with flaxseed and 45 seconds in the microwave delivers a moist and comforting heat to where you’re hurting. You can also customize it with your own essential oils.
Homemade Heating Pad
Supplies:
- fabric – I used 2 patterns. Size will vary based on how big you want the heating pad. I used 2 pieces. 6″ x 21″
- sewing machine and thread
- scissors
- whole flax seeds – approximately 1 1/4 pound for the heating pad I made.
- funnel or something to use for a funnel
Instructions:
Begin by cutting your fabric into two equal size pieces. I used two different patterns and cut the pieces approximately 6″ x 21″.
Next, turn the two pieces of fabric so they outside of the fabric is facing together. Use the sewing machine to sew the two pieces together leaving a small seam around the edge. Leave an opening approximately 2″ wide at one end.
Turn the fabric right side out.
Measure and mark your heating pad into four equal size segments. Use the sewing machine to sew two lines across the fabric where the segments are marked. Do NOT sew all the way across or you will be unable to fill the heating pad. Leave approximately 1″ at each side. This will allow the flax to flow into each section.
Use the funnel to gradually add the flax seed to the bag. I added about 1/2 cup to a time and worked it into the sections before adding more. Add enough flax seed to loosely fill each section. If they are too full they will be stiff and not as comfortable to use. If you like, you can add a few drops of essential oil of your choice to the flax seeds before filling the bag.
I added lavender to my heating pad which helps with inflammation, bruising and relaxation. I also like to copaiba or peppermint (neat or diluted) directly to the sore/achy area and then apply the heating pad over it.
Valor and Panaway Young Living Essential Oil Blends
My two favorite essential oils for stiff, sore muscles are actually proprietary blends by Young Living Essential Oils. Panaway is great for easing occasional muscle pain (it smells like Bengay) and I love Valor for relaxing muscle tension.
When the bag is full, tuck the opening in and sew across the end of the heating pad.
Make sure that the sections are evenly filled and sew a line all the way across between each section (in between the 2 dividing lines you added earlier). This will keep the flax seed from shifting around between sections.
When you are feeling achy or need to ease some stress, simply heat this beautiful heating pad in the microwave and apply over affected area.
Tie a ribbon around this Homemade Heating Pad and it makes a unique, personal and perfect gift!