How to Train in Reflexology

Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to particular points on the hands, ears and feet, in order to relax the nervous system, release tension and rejuvenate the muscles. Many programs and schools offer training in reflexology, which can be either online-based or classroom-based.

Instructions

Start Studying

• 1

  Learn all you can about reflexology, which is the practice of creating entire body relaxation by applying pressure to points on the feet, hands and ears. It is similar to massage in that its goal is to cause the muscles of the body to relax and be rejuvenated, but while massage is usually applied to the entire body, reflexology attempts to relax the nervous system by manipulating those particular points.

• 2

  Find reflexologists in your area and make regular appointments. Perhaps they might barter some office work (from you) in exchange for regular reflexology sessions (from them). Let them know that you are interested in training. They can probably answer some questions and tell you about their own certification process. Be careful that you respect their time, however; they are professionals and are working to make a living. Don't spend time chatting during their work hours. Instead, be observant during the reflexology sessions you have, and ask to take them out for coffee or dinner sometime and ask some questions.

• 3

  Start reading about reflexology. Some great books to start with are "The Reflexology Manual" by Pauline Wills; "Body Reflexology" by Mildred Carter; "The Reflexology Atlas" by Bernard C. Kolster and Astrid Waskowiak; and "Hand Reflexology" by Kevin and Barbara Kune.

Find a School

• 4

  Research schools. There are many schools available, both in the United States and abroad, that provide training in reflexology. Some schools offer distance learning with some hands-on, classroom time. Others are classroom based and require that you be on location for the training hours. The best way to find the one closest to you is by finding your national or regional association of reflexologists. Visit the International Council of Reflexology (link below) for a list of those associations.

• 5

  Determine if you want train exclusively in reflexology or if you want to pursue dual certification in both massage therapy and reflexology. Some schools train exclusively in reflexology; others train in massage and have partner programs to train in reflexology.

• 6

  Determine how much time you can dedicate to the study of reflexology. Getting a certification in reflexology is usually a full-time student commitment. If you cannot attend a reflexology school full time, talk to the school administrators about part-time options. It will take you longer to get through the coursework (perhaps 1 1/2 to 2 years rather than 6 months to 1 year), but you may be able to work out options that will allow you to maintain your current job while you pursue reflexology certification.

Attend the School

• 7

  Visit the school and determine if it is the right choice for your studies. Talk to the teachers, look over the curriculum and ask questions about coursework. Talk to students who are enrolled about their experience. Ask about graduates of the school; do most of them go into local practice, move away? Are they able to find jobs?

• 8

  Make the most of your time once you have found a school, signed up for coursework, and are getting started in your training. Adjust your schedule so that you are getting adequate sleep and can be alert and attentive in classes, even if that means dropping some of your former social obligations. Talk to your teachers, ask questions, and take notes during lectures. Do all the assigned reading, look up words you don't understand, and make notes of the important points.

• 9

  Don't be intimidated when you get to the hands-on work. Nobody knows just what they're doing at first, so jump right in, do your best and let your teachers give you guidance as needed. You will soon get the feel for what you are doing and it will slowly become second nature.

• 10

  Keep on reading, researching and networking with other professionals in the field of reflexology. There are many resources available for continuing study in reflexology. Keep learning and expanding your expertise by reading books such as "Reflexology for Women's Health" by Ann Gillanders; "Baby Touch" by Wendy Kavanagh; "The New Reflexology" by Inge Dougans; and "Reflexology for Holistic Therapies" by Francesca Gould.