A microwave oven is generally associated with a fast-paced modern society that induces stress at all times. This handy kitchen appliance found in most modern kitchens can actually help you relax in ways that you may not have thought of before.
1 - Ease away neck tension
Fill a clean old sock (or use a new one if old socks gross you out) with plain white rice and tie it in a knot at the open end. Place the rice-filled sock into your favorite microwave oven and heat it at full power for one minute. Place the rice-filled sock over the back of your neck and relax as the heat helps ease away neck tension. The rice holds the heat in for a while to let you relax for longer. You can keep the rice-filled sock and use it over and over again. This method can also be used for aching knees, ankles or shoulders. Put a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil on the sock for extra relaxation. Rosemary essential oil or tea tree essential oil work well for this purpose.
2 - Use lavender to relax your brain and help you fall asleep
Studies have shown that lavender has a profound effect on the brain, specifically the limbic system. Some people refer to this as the reptilian part of our brain, since it was one of the first parts to develop that is still with us. Lavender causes an involuntary relaxation which is especially helpful at bedtime. Place 3 drops of lavender essential oil into a coffee cup filled with filtered water. Heat at full power for one minute. Place the hot lavender water onto a bedside table and breathe deeply until you fall asleep. A word of warning: consult your doctor before using lavender if you are on any medications. It truly is a powerful relaxant and because of this it can strengthen the effects of a central nervous system depressant.
3 - Make a valerian root and chamomile tea before bed
Fill a mug with filtered water and add 1 teaspoon of valerian root and 1 teaspoon of loose chamomile flowers. Heat at full power for one minute then stir well. Let the valerian root and chamomile steep for 3 minutes before straining and drinking. Looking for daytime relaxation? Skip the valerian and only use the chamomile. The valerian root can make you sleepy. Ask your doctor if valerian root is safe for you if you are on any type of sleeping pills or any medication that promotes relaxation.
Heather Krasovec, creator of http://microwaveoven-reviews.com/, uses her extensive experience in food based industries to help consumers make the best choices when stocking their kitchens.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6952144
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