Doula secrets: make your own rice sock

Most of the doulas I've met make these great rice socks for their clients. I've made a few myself and they work well to help sooth neck, back, and shoulder pain. You can make one for your own pregnancy aches and pains. Here's how:

1. Take one old or new tube sock; a clean one preferably :)
2. Fill the sock with about 1.5 - 2 pounds of dry uncooked rice. Although you can use different grains or seeds. Many of folks I know use flax seed -- but I don't think flax seed smells very good heated up.
3. If you like you can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the dry rice. That will make it smell nice when heated. Note that your sense of smell is heightened during pregnancy though, so a drop or two of oil goes a long way.
4. Knot or sew the sock shut.

Heat until warm, but not scalding hot in the microwave and place the rice sock on achy areas of your body. The sock will conform to your body and help relieve tension. You can safely use the rice sock during both pregnancy and labor. Some people enjoy the sock cold -- especially during labor when things can get a little hot. Cold or hot it's up to you. Either way, a rice sock is an inexpensive and quick fix for achy muscles. One good idea is to make the sock with fancier fabric and some nice ribbon and then it makes a great gift for a pregnant friend.