How’s this for a sensual idea? Give your lover (or special someone) something special-a fantasy foot massage complete with dim lighting, a gentle waft of incense and romantic music to set the scene.

Massaging the feet can be fun, relaxing and a romantic luxury. As we all know, the feet contain many muscles, and just like any other muscles in the body, they can get tired and stressed. The feet bear the full weight of the body for much of the day, but they probably get the least amount of attention in terms of relaxation and massage.

In fact, many salons now incorporate foot massage into their pedicure and relaxation treatments. And just like at a salon, I recommend first soaking your lover’s feet for about 10 minutes in warm water to loosen the muscles, soften the skin and relieve tension.

To begin the massage, use your thumb to make circular motions, moving from the heel all the way up to ball of the foot. Using a massage oil is helpful and scented oils can be romantic. Most of the foot’s soft tissue can be felt and massaged along the bottom of the foot. You can rub the top of the foot also, but use less pressure because there isn’t as much soft tissue. After massaging with the thumb, I suggest using your knuckles to press along the same path. When you reach the toes, manipulate each one with the thumb and forefinger, pulling gently.

Would-be masseuses should be careful not to touch the feet too lightly- especially if your friend (or Valentine?) is ticklish. Throughout the massage use a fairly firm hand, but don’t rub hard enough to cause discomfort. If your lover still wants more, you can rub the ankle area with circular movements to ease tension in the tendons in front of and behind the ankle to complete the massage.

A foot massage can revitalize the entire body. The reason why maintaining proper foot health and comfort contributes to one's overall health and well being is due to the principles of Reflexology -- a science which deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet (and hands) which correspond to all of the glands, organs and parts of the body. Some doctors believe that over 75% of our health problems can be linked to nervous stress and tension and because reflexology is believed to improve nerve and blood supply, body functions are normalized and the stress that can negatively affect your health is significantly lessened.

So tonight when your special someone walks through the door, greet their feet with a romantic treat.

Dr. Suzanne Belyea is medical director of the website Foot.com

P.S. Yes, of course there is a “The World's Most Beautiful Feet Contest”. Folks who think their tootsies are tops can email contact information and images of their beautiful feet by logging onto Foot.com for information. Hard copies of photos can also be sent via snail mail, address available at Foot.com. The contest begins Memorial Day weekend and the winner is announced the Tuesday after Labor Day.