This Adorable Heating Pad Looks Like a Llama and Feels Like a Warm Hug

Last year, I was gifted this lavender-scented heating pad that looks like a llama and, honestly, it's one of my favorite gifts ever. All you do is pop it in the microwave (I always wrap it with a clean dish towel) and heat for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes and it's ready to use. This little llama feels like a warm hug and has become a big part of my self-care routine. Trust me, it's well worth the money if you're looking for something for yourself or a gift for others.

I'm always cold in the winter, so I love using this huggable, heatable llama to warm up. I'll cozy up with it on the couch and, on those extra cold nights, I'll throw it under the covers to warm up the bed before I get in. The relaxing lavender scent also helps me to relax and fall asleep.

It's also really awesome to use for aches and pains. When that lower back pain starts, my shoulders tense up or cramps hit, I'll use it all day long while sitting at my desk. And the heat surprisingly lasts a long time, so I don't need to get up every 30 minutes to re-heat it.

In the summer, when it's already hot enough, I'll toss the llama in the freezer to chill down. The coolness is nice for achy joints that come after a long day of yard work or a challenging hike. And the filling molds nicely around knees, ankles and shoulders, so it feels much better than a hard ice pack.

Also, if you're not feeling the llama shape, there are 11 other designs to choose from. There are other animal options including a seal pup, a sloth, a teddy bear and—for the cat lovers—a fat cat and a lucky cat. For the food lovers, go for the egg, pizza, avocado or peach designs and last but not least, you can also get a rainbow and a Christmas tree design.

I can see kids really loving these different options. Not only are the designs super cute, but the warmth and lavender scent are also very soothing.

The only thing to call out about this product is that, in addition to containing lavender, the filling is made of buckwheat. So, those with celiac disease or a sensitivity to gluten should opt for a different product.

If you're looking for a gift for a friend or yourself, you won't be disappointed. In fact, with all the cool designs, you could realistically get one for everyone you love! You're basically gifting something that feels like a warm hug, which is especially nice when you can't always be together.