Aromatherapy Rice Bag

Join OFPL on Facebook, @galluplibrary, or YouTube on Saturday, October 9th at 1:00 PM to make self-care products. Watch our previous self-care workshops on YouTube to boost your mental, emotional, and physical health. The ingredient list is available below:

Aromatherapy Rice Bag

Ingredients:
• 100% Cotton Material
• 6 cups rice (uncooked)
• 10-20 drops essential oil
• Needle and thread (or sewing machine)

Instructions:
1. Fold the material into thirds length wise (hot dog style). Cut along each fold to make three strips of material.
2. Cut each strip of material in half again. You should have 6 rectangles.
3. Line up two rectangles on top of each other with the pattern facing in. Sew three sides of the material, leaving one side. Turn the bag right side out.
4. Mix together uncooked rice and 10 drops of essential oils (more or less, depending on how strong you want the scent) and let sit for about 10 minutes so it absorbs. Scoop rice into the bag.
5. Fold the material of the open end inside itself for about inch long. Pinch the ends together and sew it closed.
6. To make the smaller rice pad fold one rectangle in half, but only sew 2 sides. Fill the bag with 1 cup of rice then sew shut.
7. Heat in the microwave for two minutes and check the temperature of the bag before laying it over your neck, shoulders, or other areas that could use relief. You can also freeze it for an aromatherapy ice pack. You can add more oils to the fabric as needed, too!

Email jwhitman@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.