How to relax with an eye pack, pillow, or mask

This very simple tool is so relaxing and easy to use that you will be surprised. You put the eye pillow (or masks or pack, as they may be called) for a few minutes over your eyes and you will feel relaxed and recharged. They are ideal to use after a day of hard work or when you feel your eyes are tired. You might even find it hard to believe that a simple eye mask can have such remarkable results, but trust us, it works. Even we were very skeptical when we first came to know about it, but now not only are we devoted fans of this little pack, but also try it first for a headache (only if the headache is too severe or just does not go away, do we take a painkiller now) and for sleeping better.

Usually they are kept in the freezer, though they can be microwaved since some people like a hot mask. Our favorite is a silk or a similar material filled with rice and lavender, and scented with lavender oil.

You can buy a ready-to-use eye mask. There are many good choices in specialty shops or on the Internet. Generally the Internet has more choices and better prices. The eye mask sold in many shops do not have enough weight. The ideal mask should weigh about one pound (400 g) and it should be made from a material that you can put in the freezer. Ideally, it should also smell good. Aromessentials sells a good quality mask.

Why not make your own eye mask?

You will need:

1. A piece of raw silk or a synthetic material about 11 inches long and 5 3/4 inches wide. It can be a rectangular shape or you can try to give it a more of a “mask” shape. You will need to sew the open sides and leave a small area to fill it up in the end.
2. Rice or flax seeds, about 1 pound
3. 2 tablespoons of lavender buds
4. 10 drops of lavender oil
5. A bag to keep it in the freezer

Mix the rice or flax seeds with the lavender buds and the oil. Put it in the bag and sew it well. Put it in a plastic bag in the freezer and take it out when you want to use it. After use, seal it in the bag again and let it stay in the freezer. They can last for years like that and you can always add the oil if you think the fragrance is gone.

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