Rice neck warmers are easily made from readily available, inexpensive materials. They provide moist heat to melt away stress and tension, and they help relieve pain from tension headaches, minor strains and stiffness. A rice neck warmer also makes for a cozy warm-up on a chilly day, even if your neck is feeling fine. They are thoughtful, comforting gifts for friends and family as well.

Thread the yarn needle with 12 to 18 inches of yarn.

Pour one bag of uncooked white rice into each trouser sock, working with a funnel to prevent spills.

Fold over the top of each filled sock by 1 inch.

Sew the folds securely with yarn so the rice cannot leak out. Knot the ends of the yarn well.

Insert the filled trouser socks, sewn ends first, into the bulky cotton socks, which serve as attractive and protective covers for your finished rice neck warmers. Leave the ends of the bulky sock "covers" open so they can be removed easily and washed when needed.

Microwave the rice neck warmer for two to three minutes. Microwaves vary, so be careful not to overheat.

Feel the heated neck warmer to verify that it is a comfortable temperature for you. If it is not warm enough, microwave for an additional 30 seconds. If it is too hot, let it cool for a few minutes.

Apply the rice warmer to your neck, and relax.