Nerves are the communication lines of the body, according to “the barefoot professor”, Daniel Howell, Ph.D., who writes about the effects of footwear on foot anatomy in his Barefoot Book. Howell notes that natural biofeedback occurs between the brain and the estimated 100,000 to 200,000 exteroreceptors in the soles of each foot. Peripheral nerves, he explains, originate from the brain and spinal cord, extend to the skin, muscles and tissues, and relay information in the form of electrical impulses. This communication plays a big part in the work of reflexologists that use their thumbs to apply alternating pressure on reflex points located on the feet.

“If you’re feeling out of kilter, don’t know why or what about, let your feet reveal the answer, find the sore spot, work it out,” is the personal philosophy of Eunice D. Ingham, who created the world-renowned Ingham Method, considered the Rolls Royce of reflexology. Ingham worked alongside her mentor, Dr. Joe Shelby Riley, to research and document the theories and signature thumb, finger and hand techniques used today by 25,000 reflexologists throughout the world.

The Original Works of Eunice D. Ingham, published in 1984, includes Stories the Feet Can Tell Thru Reflexology. The book correlates the connections between specific organs and glands with reflex areas in the feet.

A reflexologist’s experienced hands and thumbs, which travel over feet dusted with non-talcum powder, pick up on textures such as grittiness, sponginess, lumps, hard spots or a callous formation. Responses to reflexology vary widely, from feelings of calm and sleepiness to a sense of renewed energy and rejuvenation. The more frequently an individual experiences reflexology, the more likely they are to notice overall benefits such as stress reduction, relaxation, assistance in maintaining wellness and pain management.

In a typical 60-minute reflexology session, only footwear is removed. Although work is generally focused on the feet, hands and the outer area of the ears might also be included. Reflexology is good for foot problems, relaxes the entire body and relieves emotional stress. Nurses, hairstylists, bartenders, waitresses and massage therapists that stand on their feet for the majority of their work day are especially good candidates for reflexology because it helps increase circulation.

Happy Feet Reflexology, Neapolitan Plaza, 4661 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. 239-465-0708. HappyFeetRelaxingNaples.com.

Ultimate Relaxation, Coastland Center Mall, Naples. 239-793-8888. MyUltimateRelaxation.com.