You have probably noticed that the ankles and tops of the feet are a popular location for permanent tattoos. It is traditional in India to have the soles of the feet painted. You may be thinking, now why in the world would I paint my soles? Who would see it but me? Many American brides have the soles of their painted because they want to share their henna with only their husbands. Body art is not always about showing off. Often, it is about sharing a secret ritual with yourself! (And of course, the henna artist working on you.) One of the problem encountered by those who have the soles of their painted, obviously, is walking. A couch, a television, is walking. A couch, a television, and an intimate friend are important accessories to henna-painted feet. If you can work it out, try getting painted at a location that you can remain at for many hours. Look for a place where you can camp for that night, like your living room couch if it is okay with the rest of your family.

In India, the feet are revered. Here in America, we tend to take our feet for granted. We shove them into high heels and let them sweat in sneakers without a break. Try to examine your attitude toward feet (yours and other peoples, too). Do they disgust you? A lot of people are afraid of their feet. They like to keep them hidden, and they dread the summer when their feet get exposed in sandals. Other people abuse their feet every day and get a pedicure once in a while to pamper themselves. Henna painting is the most sensual way to experience and love your feet. Think of it: You get to rest with your feet up for at least twelve hours! (That is if you really want the henna to take.) The reason Indian people place importance on the feet is that they view them as the point where our bodies make divine contact with the earth. Americans seem to be far less connected to the earth than people of other cultures, so it makes sense that we would ignore this idea. Try to love your feet. Giving yourself a pedicure is a real treat. Henna is an even better treat, and it is practical too. Henna is cooling, so it refreshes hot, sweaty feet! Use the patterns on the following pages or create your own designs.