Abstract:
Articles displaying a wellness indicia. The wellness indicia may include a Reiki symbol or combination of Reiki symbols. Different articles may display the wellness indicia, such as socks, gloves, hats, touques, scarves, neck rolls, lingerie, support wraps, blankets, collars, animal clothing, bedding, wallpaper, lampshades, sheets, pillow cases.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates generally to the field alternative medical treatments. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Reiki is a vibrational, or subtle energy therapy most commonly used either with or without touch. It is a healing modality that is included in the biofield therapies which are generally considered to be low-risk intervention. The National Institutes of Health Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has classified energy medicine therapies into 2 basic categories: biofield therapies and bioelectromagnetic-based therapies. 
         [0003]    Biofield modalities are defined as those therapies intended to affect the energy fields that surround the human body. These are Reiki, Qigong, and Therapeutic touch. A growing number of medical and health care workers are adding Reiki to their repertoire for dealing with their clients. Biofield therapy is a healing modality in which the energy targets the receptor sites in the body corresponding to the endocrine glands and organs of the body (see meridian charts) releasing the energy blockages and resulting in improved health. 
         [0004]    We have become aware of “life force energy” as the cause of our health and the lack as the cause of illness. Science is studying the “life force” flow and has become aware of energy blockages becoming illness, and when we alter our thought patterns we can often affect these blockages and then return to health. Reiki helps to transform these energy blocks, some of them have been with us for our whole life due to a shock when young or a fear that may seem irrational to the adult mind. 
         [0005]    Our bodies are composed of physical elements such as muscles, bones, nerves, arteries, organs, glands, etc.; each has subtle energy bodies which surround our physical body and assist us in processing our thoughts and emotions. Our energy bodies have energy centers called charkas, which work somewhat like valves that allow life force to circulate through the physical, mental, and emotional bodies. We also have that energy flowing through our meridians and or nadis all of which become energy pathways to organs and glands. The American Institute of Stress estimates that 75%-95% of all visits to doctors are the results of reactions to stress. 
         [0006]    It stands to reason that to reduce stress alone within the body it would increase health and longevity. The chakras when balanced become a source of useable energy for the nerve, cellular and hormonal systems within the physical body. The conduits or subtle “pathways” which facilitate this interchange between psychological and physical energy are called nadis (meridians). Various scientific studies have finally given credibility to the existence of the chakras. Dysfunction at the level of the chakras and nadis is directly reflected in pathological disorders within the nervous system/endocrine system which, in turn, will affect the whole body/mind. The physical, mental and spiritual aspects of the body work together and are interconnected. It is, therefore, important to remember that any disorder at the physiological level will always be, to some extent, reflected at the subtler levels. 
         [0007]    Reiki has several effects: it increases the vibrational frequency of the body, releases blocks, sensations of deep relaxation and restored vitality. Reiki typically involves the tracing of symbols in the air through hand gestures. The symbols are like switches in Reiki treatments and their power is increased with intent but not necessary. In Reiki the symbols are the tools and function as the conductors or the vibrational energies running from them into the organism using them. 
         [0008]    Reiki can be performed in person or in distance and either way the treatment has results. 
         [0009]    The Reiki symbols are Sanskrit-derived Japanese forms. Sanskrit is the mother-tongue of all other languages. It is the language of the Vedas; the oldest writings known to man. The Vedas stated that Sanskrit is the language of the spirit world. 
         [0010]    Reiki is typically performed by accredited practitioners. 
         [0011]    Accordingly, the inventor has recognized a need for apparatus for providing the healing benefits of Reiki to individuals, without the need for accredited practitioners. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    This invention is directed toward an article intended to be worn on a body. The article includes a wellness indicia displayed thereon. 
         [0013]    The wellness indicia typically comprises at least one Reiki symbol selected from the following set of Reiki symbols: Cho Ku Rei, Cho Ku Rei backwards, Sei He Ki, Sei He Ki, Sei He Ki backwards, Sei He Ki upside down, Sei He Ki upside down and backwards, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, Dai Ko Myo, Raku, Halu, Zonar, Harth, Mara, Johre, Len So My, Lon Say, Yod, Shanti, Sati, Om, Hung, palm Di Ko Mio, Sa, To, Ga, Ozza. 
         [0014]    The article may be one or more articles of clothing such as socks, shirts, pants, gloves, hats, touques, scarves, neck rolls and lingerie, and may also be support wraps, blankets, collars, animal clothing, bedding, wallpaper, lampshades, sheets, pillow cases. 
     
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts and in which: 
           [0016]      FIGS. 1A-1V  illustrate various Reiki symbols which may be displayed as wellness indicia in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0017]      FIGS. 2A-2M  illustrate various configurations or combinations of Reiki symbols which may be displayed as wellness indicia in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0018]      FIG. 3  is a reflexology chart of a human foot. 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  is a meridian chart of a human body. 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  illustrates a plurality of example articles, socks, made in accordance with the subject invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  illustrates a plurality of example articles, insoles, made in accordance with the subject invention. 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  illustrates a plurality of example articles, including gloves, mitts, a hat, a toque, scarves, and a neck roll, all made in accordance with the subject invention. 
           [0023]      FIGS. 8-11  illustrate several articles in the form of outfits, having matching shirts and pants made in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0024]      FIG. 12  illustrates various other examples of articles made in accordance with the present invention and typically intended for use with animals. 
           [0025]      FIG. 13  illustrates yet other examples of articles made in accordance with the present invention, including a sheet or bedspread, a lamp shade, a pillowcase, and a blanket 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0026]    Referring to  FIGS. 5 , illustrated therein is an example of a plurality of articles made in accordance with the subject invention. The figure illustrates a plurality of articles  10  (in this instance, socks  11 ) from both a side perspective view  11   A  together with a bottom view  11   B , made in accordance with the subject invention. Each sock  11  displays a wellness indicia  12 . The socks  11  are intended to be worn and used by an individual. The wellness indicia  12  may comprise a single symbol  14  or a combination  16  of a plurality of symbols as will be discussed in greater detail below. 
       The Reiki Symbols 
       [0027]    Referring to  FIGS. 1A-1V , illustrated therein are various Reiki wellness symbols as they may appear on an article made in accordance with the subject invention. The symbols should be drawn accurately for optimal effect, but there are slight variations to the symbols. 
         [0028]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1A  is a depiction of the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50 , together with a backwards variant  50 ′ of the symbol. The Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  and its variant  50 ′ may put power behind the well intended thoughts of the user who is then making a positive statement about himself or herself. This symbol  50 ,  50 ′ is most effective in one who adds affirmations of well being. It is used to increase power, or current and can mean “put the power here”. The symbol  50 ,  50 ′ draws energy from around the user and brings it to focus where the user wants it and to create strength. The symbol  50 ,  50 ′ has also been found to remove blocks on a physical level. 
         [0029]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1B  is a depiction of the Sei He Ki symbol  52 , together with backwards  52 ′, upside down  52 ″, and upside down and backwards  52 ′″ variants of the symbol. The Sei He Ki symbol  52 ,  52 ′,  52 ″,  52 ′″ is a gentle and loving symbol helpful in uncovering and clearing the issues found at the root of the user&#39;s inner conflict and personal upset. The Sei He Ki symbol  52 ,  52 ′,  52 ″,  52 ′″ has been found useful for facilitating the removal of emotional blocks which equates to better health and wellness. This symbol  52 ,  52 ′,  52 ″,  52 ′″ balances the left and right hemispheres of the brain; heals the mind/body connection; releases mental or emotional stresses and brings them to the surface gently; promotes peace and harmony which can enhance memory and increases compassion for self and others. 
         [0030]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1C  is a depiction of the Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen symbol  54 , together with two variants  54 ′,  54 ″. The Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen symbol  54 ,  54 ′,  54 ″ is a powerful symbol used to transmit to others thoughts of positivity and goodwill to all who receive it. This symbol symbol  54 ,  54 ′,  54 ″ ensures that these thoughts can travel endless miles to the recipient. It  54 ,  54 ′,  54 ″ can also allow a very deep shift to occur with past events that may have had shocking elements to them. 
         [0031]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1D  is a depiction of the Dai Ku Myo symbol  56 , together with five variants  56 ′,  56 ″,  56 ′″,  56 ″″,  56 ′″″. The Dai Ku Myo symbol  56 ,  56 ′,  56 ″,  56 ′″,  56 ″″,  56 ′″″ is master symbol of honor, integrity, moral and ethical power. The symbol  56 ,  56 ′,  56 ″,  56 ′″,  56 ″″,  56 ′″″ is attuned to the laws and principles of Creation causing the user to have keener insight and sparking their inner wisdom thus facilitating change in their life. The symbol  56 ,  56 ′,  56 ″,  56 ′″,  56 ″″,  56 ′″″ has also been found to facilitate great courage to make changes and shifts to follow the user&#39;s heart. 
         [0032]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1E  is a depiction of the Raku symbol  58 , together with two lightning bold variants  58 ′,  58 ″, and two serpent variants  58 ′″,  58 ″″. The Raku symbol  58 ,  58 ′,  58 ″,  58 ′″,  58 ″″ holds the secret to the path of personal enlightenment. The user&#39;s consciousness is raised and experiences increased vitality, energy and clarity of mind. The symbol  58 ,  58 ′,  58 ″,  58 ′″,  58 ″″ has been found to be great for those who need refreshment or tend to feel sluggish, bored or depressed. The symbol  58 ,  58 ′,  58 ″,  58 ′″,  58 ″″ is great for grounding energy and raises the kundalini and brings energy throughout the circuits in the user&#39;s body. 
         [0033]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1F  is a depiction of the Halu symbol  60 . The Halu symbol  60  is used to clear unwanted thoughts and emotional patterns that hold us back from realizing our goals. It is often used as a window to open the user to the present moment of now where the past filled with patterns is no longer holding the user, who can then move forward in a new pattern of health. 
         [0034]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1G  is a depiction of the Zonar symbol  62 , together with a variant  62 ′. The Zonar symbol  62 ,  62 ′ is used for unexplained issues. It can facilitate great releases of emotions. 
         [0035]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1H  is a depiction of the Harth symbol  64  together with a variant  64 ′. This symbol  64 ,  64 ′ is used magnify love, truth, beauty, harmony and balance in the heart area. This puts ease and lightness back into the daily dealings of life and helps to release one from harmful feelings of heaviness from depression and self hatred. 
         [0036]    The Mara symbol  66  is illustrated in  FIG. 1I . This symbol  66  is the flow of the 4 elements in the spiral coning into the male and female elements symbolized by the 2 “v” lines. The symbol  66  triggers the flow of energy coming into the Kundulini awakening the male and female energies. The use of the Mara symbol  66  would be particularly effective with the traditional symbols used to balance the body. 
         [0037]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1J  is a depiction of the Johre symbol  68 . The symbol  68  adds light to this area. The vibration of Light is known to raise the vibration of areas that are sluggish and not moving with ease. It gives thought to higher purpose. 
         [0038]    The Len So My symbol  70  is depicted in  FIG. 1K  and adds unconditional love to the aura and leaves the user feeling a lightness, due to the release of self hatred and feelings of unwantedness. It is a gentle symbol that would be effective on pyjamas where the wearer would be cocooned in a gentle wise loving vibration. 
         [0039]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1L  is a depiction of the Lon Say symbol  72 . The Lon Say symbol  72  is the symbol of balance. It works with the 4 elements, the air, water, earth, fire. The Lon Say symbol  72  may be depicted with other symbols and may release negativity. 
         [0040]    The Yod symbol  74  is illustrated in  FIG. 1M  and can be used with or without the inclusion of the “YOD” word. This symbol  74  can connect the heart to higher purpose. The depiction of the Yod symbol  74  together with other symbols will result direct improved thinking and correct action. 
         [0041]      FIG. 1N  depicts the Shanti symbol  76 . The Shanti symbol  76  is a symbol used for peacefulness. The symbol  76  evokes a sense of inner peace and allows the release of anxiety. It facilitates relaxation, rest and sleep which in turn facilitate healing. 
         [0042]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1O  is a depiction of the Sati symbol  78 . This symbol  78  is used to ground the 4 elements with the male and female energies (represented by the 2 circles). This symbol  78  improves balance and allows for the user who is working on creative projects to bring them to completion. The symbol  78  facilitates the flow of creativity which is needed everyday at work. 
         [0043]    The Om symbol  80 , together with a variation  80 ′ are depicted in  FIG. 1P . The Om symbol  80 ,  80 ′ may be depicted near the user&#39;s head to bring in clear thoughts and direct wisdom. Most illness is brought about by incorrect thinking and unwise thought patterns, this symbol  80 ,  80 ′ when depicted in combination with other symbols can have a great clearing and relieve foggy thinking. 
         [0044]    Also called Om Benza Satto, the Hung symbol  82  depicted in  FIG. 1Q  is effective in the transmutation of wrong thinking into correct thinking. The symbol  82  may eliminate hard to remove thoughts that are becoming unhealthy physical pains and aches. 
         [0045]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1R  is a depiction of the Palm Master symbol  84 , together with a variant  84 ′. This symbol  84  is also know as the palm Di Ko Mio and is effective in energizing the user&#39;s system. This symbol  84  is effective when the body is free from blocks and the user is meditating or studying—in such instance, the user&#39;s body can become energized and absorb information better and faster. 
         [0046]    The Sa symbol  86 , as depicted in  FIG. 1S  is particularly effective when positioned near the solar plexus area and brings in information. The Sa symbol  86  is for opening the channels of higher study. 
         [0047]    Illustrated in  FIG. 1T  is a depiction of the To symbol  88 , which may be used for the enhancement of the Sa symbol  86  and may be positioned proximate the belly area. This symbol may be used for manifesting and releasing fears of wealth, artistic endeavors and self worth. With the Sa symbol  86 , the user is able to think or feel his or her purpose, as contrasted with the To symbol  88  which assists the user in manifesting or building his or her purpose. 
         [0048]    The symbol Ga  90  is depicted in  FIG. 1U . This symbol  90  may be used to capture the positive and direct it into the root or the manifestation of a higher purpose. 
         [0049]      FIG. 1V  depicts the Ozza symbol  92 , which is a symbol of higher thoughts. With the use of this symbol  92 , the user brings in correct thinking especially into the lower belly and the root. This affects a person&#39;s ability to feel stability and trust; increasing the energy in this area allows creativity to flow. 
         [0050]    The general effectiveness of the Reiki wellness symbols can be enhanced by placement on the article and the combining with other of the Reiki wellness symbols. The illustrations in  FIGS. 2A to 2M  illustrate particularly effective wellness indicia including combinations of Reiki wellness symbols. 
         [0051]    As noted above, the use of the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  alone, as illustrated in  FIG. 2A  enhances balance and overall energies of the user. 
         [0052]    The combination  100  of the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  and the Sei he Ki symbol  54 , as illustrated in  FIG. 2B , provide a balancing of the emotions, the physical and the unblocking of emotional issues on a physical level which would leave a person feeling physically lighter, more focused, relaxed, balanced and in harmony. 
         [0053]    The combination  102  illustrated in  FIG. 2C  of the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  and the Sei he Ki symbol  52 , the Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen symbol  54  and a second Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  would allow the wearer or user to release emotionally and physically from past issues and hurts or traumas that they have been carrying around most of their lives. This would often mean long term physical issues would start to improve tremendously as negative thinking patterns would be corrected. 
         [0054]      FIG. 2D  illustrates a combination  104  of 5 symbols, adding the Dai Ku Myo symbol  56  to the combination  102  illustrated in  FIG. 2C , which increases the power and releases an insight to the user&#39;s healing. Usually, users will be able to make decisions based with honor such as relationship issues, and health issues may no longer be as contentious. 
         [0055]    The combination  106  illustrated in  FIG. 2E  of the non-traditional Dai Ku Mio symbol  56 ′″ and Raku symbol  58  combined will raise the life force to create abundance of energy to be used for a higher purpose such as creative endeavors. It creates focus and drive. This combination  106  is great for depression and the inability to focus and helps to relieve sadness. 
         [0056]    As illustrated in  FIG. 2F , the combination  108  adds the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  to the combination  106  of  FIG. 2E  and balances the abundant energies and brings them into the physical which would be beneficial for someone with a busy schedule. It also creates a feeling of balance, harmony and good health. 
         [0057]    Illustrated in  FIG. 2G  is a combination  110 , in which the Lon Say symbol  72  has been added to the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  and the Sei he Ki symbol  54 . This combination  110  grounds and strengthens the energies of the 4 elements. Humans live on the earth, and to be compatable with the environment would be helpful. The combination  110  may result in improved breathing or the soothing of intestinal issues for the user. 
         [0058]      FIG. 2H  illustrates the combination  112  of the power symbol, Cho Ku Rei symbol  50 , with the emotional Sei he Ki symbol  54 , and the grounding master symbol, the non-traditional Dai Ku Mio symbol  56 ′″, together with the Shanti symbol  76  and the Harth symbol  64  would add great strength to the shift. The release of deep seated fears and trauma provided with the Shanti symbol  76  then great unconditional love and divine peace from the Harth symbol  64  would be grounded with the traditional Reiki symbols. This combination  112  would be particularly effective for someone who has had sleep disorders, hayfever, phobias and other such disorders. 
         [0059]    The combination  114  of the Johre symbol  68  together with the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  is illustrated in  FIG. 2I . The Johre symbol  68  would bring in great white light and a soothing feeling from the head down while the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  would draw it down into the lower body. One particular embodiment would involve the Johre symbol  68  on a user&#39;s shirt on the back along the spinal column and the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50  would be on the bottom of the shirt along the hem or on the user&#39;s pants. This combination  114  would be effective for someone bed ridden, needing more energy or someone studying needing inspiration and sitting for long periods. 
         [0060]      FIG. 2J  illustrates another effective combination  116 . The Swirling energies of the Palm Master symbol  84  into all the energy centres of the user&#39;s body would effectively be made stronger, more stable and lasting with the depiction of the cho ku rei symbol  50 . This combination  116  would benefit someone who is already very physically active and wants to enhance their performance or someone who is blocked and suffering from a sluggish system and needs a kick start. 
         [0061]    Illustrated in  FIG. 2K  is yet a further combination  118 . The cho ku rei symbol  50  and the raku symbol  58  bring in strong energies to release blocks and clear areas combined with the Harth symbol  64 ′ it brings in unconditional love with a higher purpose. If used in meditation when a user is looking for answers to personal questions of growth usually answers are forthcoming or the craving for unhealthy addictive substances can be released. 
         [0062]      FIG. 2L  depicts an additional combination  120 . The addition of the Zonar symbol  62  to the cho ku rei symbol  50  and the raku symbol  58  clears difficult-to-remove or hidden issues that lie dormant and unseen. The root causes of issues are often not obvious and used with the Han Sha Ze Sho Nen added to this combination  120  would make it even stronger. This combination would be effective for someone with a illness that stems from repressed sexual issues, family abuse and drug issues. 
         [0063]    Illustrated in  FIG. 2M  is a combination  122  of the Len So My symbol  70  with the Cho Ku Rei symbol  50 . Unconditional love with strength and clearing would create a beautiful feeling of acceptance, self worth, respect and generally a balanced sense of self for the user. 
         [0064]    Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , illustrated therein are charts of the bottom of the foot  130  ( FIG. 3 ) and of the human body  132  ( FIG. 4 ), indicating various reflexology points  200  (meridians, nadis and chakras) which are understood to affect the energy levels of the body&#39;s various organs and systems. For articles  10  intended to be worn by a body (human or animal) or used in close contact with a body, the wellness indicia  12  may preferably be displayed proximate an appropriate reflexology point, or proximate the system or organ desired to be affected. Accordingly, for heart conditions, an article  10  of clothing such as a shirt having a wellness indicia  12  displayed on the chest portion of the shirt, may be worn. Similarly for conditions affecting the head, hats or head scarves having wellness indicia  12  displayed thereon may be worn by the individual. 
         [0065]    Referring back to  FIGS. 3 and 5  and socks  11  with reiki symbols  14 ,  16  on them are influencing the wearer through the reflexology points  200  (meridians, nadis and chakras) present in the feet. Similarly, the insoles  150  illustrated in  FIG. 6  also have wellness indicia  12  in the form of various single  14  or combinations  16  of the reiki symbols. The combinations and placement of the symbols  14 ,  16  are important as explained above in relation to  FIGS. 1A-1V  and  2 A- 2 M with the description of the symbol combinations  16 . The symbols  14 ,  16  may be marked on the insole  150  (and insole of the socks  11 ) in various ways such as printing, stamping and or embossing, and further in the case of the socks  11  may alternatively be embroidered, embellished or knitted into the fabric. The use of the symbols on the insole is to increase wellness by activating all the meridians in the feet When these reflex points are activated it makes the insoles more effective because they are directed into particular points of receptivity in the body that corresponds to organs and glands. This will enhance the said function of these organs and glands (see charts— FIGS. 3 &amp; 4 ). 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , illustrated therein are example articles  10  made in accordance with the subject invention, of clothing including gloves  160  (shown from top view  160   A  and bottom view  160   B ), mitts  162  (shown from top view  162   A  and bottom view  162   B ), a hat  164 , a toque  166  (with an inside view  165  which may correspond to either or both of the toque  166  and hat  164 ), scarves  168 , and a neck roll  170 . Each article  160 ,  162 ,  164 ,  166 ,  168 ,  170  displays wellness indicia  12 , and may display either a single symbol  14  or a combination of symbols  16 . As will be understood, for all articles  10  (including those examples illustrated and discussed herein), the wellness indicia  12  is marked and displayed thereon typically by printing, stamping, embossing, knitting, weaving, embossing, embellishing or by using other techniques appropriate in view of the nature of the article  10 . 
         [0067]      FIGS. 8 to 11  illustrate several articles  10  in the form of outfits  180 ,  182 ,  184 ,  186  (shown from front view  180   A ,  182   A ,  184   A ,  186   A , side view  180   B ,  182   B ,  184   B ,  186   B , and rear view  180   C ,  182   C ,  184   C ,  186   C , having matching shirts  188 ,  190 ,  192 ,  194  and pants  196 ,  198 ,  200 ,  202 . Each article  180 ,  182 ,  184 ,  186  displays wellness indicia  12 , which may include either a single symbol  14  or a combination of symbols  16 . Preferably, the symbols  14 ,  16  are displayed in an aesthetically pleasing manner. 
         [0068]    Turning now to  FIG. 12 , illustrated therein are various other examples of articles  10  made in accordance with the present invention and typically intended for use with animals. As illustrated, wellness indicia  12  may be displayed effectively on collars  204 , animal beds or bedding  206 , and animal outfits  208  (illustrated from a side perspective view  208   A , top view  208   B , and bottom view  208   C . In these examples  204 ,  206 ,  208 , the reiki symbols are displayed in combinations  16 . 
         [0069]      FIG. 13  displays yet other examples of articles  10  made in accordance with the present invention, including a sheet or bedspread  210 , lamp shades  212 , a pillowcase  214 , and a blanket  216  having a pocket  218 . Each such article  210 ,  212 ,  214 ,  216  displays wellness indicia  12 , in the form of a reiki symbol  14  which may be repeated, or a combination of symbols  16 . 
         [0070]    It should be understood that while various combinations of wellness symbols  16  have been illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2M , other combinations of wellness symbols or variations of the wellness symbols may be used. Similarly, the locations of the symbols on articles, particularly on articles such as clothing or bedding which are intended for contact with an individual&#39;s body, may be adjusted at least in part to correspond more effectively the body&#39;s reflexology points of particular interest. Furthermore, while a wide range of articles  10  has been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that the illustration and listing of such articles  10  is not intended to be exhaustive and other types of articles, or similar articles having different appearances may be created in accordance with the present invention. As should be understood, it is preferable if the combination of symbols  16  is selected and the location of each (corresponding to appropriate reflexology points) is determined based on the desired effect for the user (or wearer). 
         [0071]    Thus, while what is shown and described herein constitute preferred embodiments of the subject invention, it should be understood that various changes can be made without departing from the subject invention, the scope of which is defined in the appended claims.