Academy of Ancient Reflexology

Reflexology Certification Programs and Workshops

Planning the Future; Letting Go

I have two big announcements to make today.

#1  We have just selected and published the dates for the 2021 Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification in Saint Augustine, Florida. I have booked the same lovely new Marriott Courtyard at the beach as we had planned on holding the program this year. I am completely confident that by April of next year, our ‘new normal’ will have solidified into a working model in which we can safely gather, learn together and have fun. I sincerely hope you will join us because what I am about to say right now does not come easy. However, here goes:

 #2  After months and months of deep thought and self-examination, I have decided to end my career as a reflexology educator to professional practitioners. I will teach next year, and perhaps in 2022, and then close it down. This is a big step to share publicly what has been on my mind for a while now; hitting ‘Publish’ makes my decision real and somewhat scary.

I have taught reflexology for 35 years, so it is a big part of who I am and how people know me. I will write more on this later but suffice it to say if you have ever wanted to learn how to be a skilled and highly qualified reflexologist with a strong foundation on how to build your business so that you will stand out in the crowd, ACT NOW. Because of what I imagine will be limitations regarding the number of people that can safely gather together, the class size will be small.

An Amazing Life – The Road Taken

I’m sure you’ve heard this before: Follow your passion.

Well, I don’t buy into that statement.

My passion is not “out there” to be followed like some puppy chasing a ball.

My passion is inside me. And it’s something that developed from following my curiosity. I wasn’t born with the many passions that propel me through my day; they matured by my paying attention to what interested me and then checking those interests out.

It wasn’t always that way for me, however.

Years ago, when people would ask me what my passion was, I felt like a failure. I didn’t have one! I mean, where does one find passion? Are we playing a game of hide and seek here? Is it available on Amazon? I do have Prime, you know!

Here’s where curiosity took me:

🌹My love of scents and where they took me in my head – and why I liked some brands of a particular aroma and not others – intrigued me enough to sign up for a free introductory class in aromatherapy offered when I was a massage student 31 years ago.

🦶🏼My curiosity (and skepticism) about how contact with the feet could affect stress levels and health motivated me back in 1983 to enroll in the Reflexology Association of Canada’s foot reflexology certification program.

❓My interest in the role belief systems play in our ability to experience a happy and prosperous life propelled me to take a weekend course entitled Happiness is a Choice, offered by the eminent Option Institute.

Did I know where those initial steps would lead? Nope.

Did I have a plan in mind to create what’s turned out to be an amazing life for myself? Heck, no!

I was just following a tickle I felt inside; something that had grabbed my attention.

And guess what! Each of those initial steps left me wanting more!

I picked up a couple of books on aromatherapy and read like crazy. That sparked more curiosity and more questions. Decided it was time to spend face-time (the real face time) with someone who knew something about the topic. I took a weekend workshop with Christina Polnyj at Essential Education International, and that did it. Signed up to take certification training in a chemistry-based program, offered by Andrea Butje at Aromahead Institute of Essential Oils Studies. (I loved feeling like the mad scientist while learning how to formulate blends for specific needs!)

Once I finished my reflexology training, I was, to say the least, fired up! I was eager to see how people other than my classmates would respond to the work. I started offering sessions to friends in exchange for their services and taking note of how their emotional, mental and physical lives were changed. And that’s when my curiosity turned into a passion! I just had to offer it to everyone I could in my hometown of Toronto! A business was born!

After the 2-day workshop in belief systems, I felt like an addict – I had to have more! I was mesmerized and loved my teacher. I took another weekend course and then took the plunge to explore all my beliefs in an 8-week residential program that changed my life. That experience formed the foundation upon which I have built my entire life and business.

Every one of these actions was triggered by my curiosity. Following what interested me is what developed the passions that inspire and drive me still today. I didn’t follow my passion; I followed my nose. My curiosity lit the match that sparked the fire that I bring to my work and life.

So, what are you curious about? What gets you thinking “Hmmmm” every time you see or hear something? What will you explore in 2020?

If you have even an inkling of curiosity about reflexology, I urge you to join me for a 2-day introduction in Reflexology for the Hands on May 16 and 17 in Gainesville, Florida.

You’ll either feel inspired afterward or not. But, you’ll know if this is a path to meander for a while longer. You’ll either feel it or not.

If curiosity has already kicked you down this road, and you’re ready to discover where a comprehensive training in hand and foot reflexology might lead you, well, what are you waiting for? Jump in!

Read about this year’s Therapeutic Hand and Foot Reflexology Professional Certification. The program starts on April 4, so don’t waste any time!

Who knows – your curiosity may explode into a passion! And God knows, the world needs more passionate, compassionate people right now with a burning desire to contribute something of value!

Change the World One Sole at a Time

I’m on a mission. A mission to help as many people as I can to relax.

Obviously, I can’t do this alone, so, I must share with others of like mind all that I have learned over the last 40 years of professional practice and personal experimentation. I’m writing today to recruit a tribe of people with the same goal as me: to help as many people as they can to feel better and enjoy their lives more.

I believe too that we learn to relax by experiencing it, not by telling ourselves (or heaven forbid, being told by someone else) to “just relax”. The experience of feeling ourselves in a relaxed state is what creates the desire for more. The body wants to feel relaxed. It functions better that way.

The wisest, smartest part of me will find a way to give me more of what I want. With each experience of relaxation, my ability to let go increases and deepens. With each experience, I want more.

That is one reason why I teach reflexology live, and not through an electronic medium. I want everyone enrolled in my programs to experience the benefits of reflexology and deep relaxation for themselves, not just copy some hands-on techniques that I might demonstrate.

What Stress Does

In this crazy world we live in right now, the importance of learning to relax has never been greater. Here’s just a sampling of what happens when the body is under chronic stress:

*The heart beats faster.

*Blood pressure increases.

*Breathing becomes shallow and rapid, reducing the amount of oxygen available to your body. (Remember, oxygen is our primary food.)

*Blood sugar rises, paving the way for diabetes.

*Endocrine functions are disturbed, including a surge in the production of adrenalin and cortisol.

*The immune system weakens, making you more vulnerable to illness.

*Digestion is halted.

*Aging is accelerated.

Scientific studies have found, over and over again, that chronic stress increases the likelihood of developing really serious illnesses, including heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, panic attacks, depression, stomach ulcers, chronic fatigue, and migraine headaches.

And that’s why I LOVE reflexology!

What Reflexology Does

Reflexology is a very enjoyable and highly effective way to reduce stress. I’ve never had anyone get up from my table and not give me that feedback. Personally, I’d have a session every day if I could!

Reflexology is also easy and fun to learn to give.

What former participants have to say about the Academy’s 315-hour Professional Certification:

“Though I know it’s just the beginning, I feel like I really KNOW this stuff, and I’m getting good at educating the public, which feels like a very important thing. This was very well-rounded, as it dealt with not only reflexology, but also business, communication, and tying it all together…..‘Enlightening and encouraging’ is actually a good summary phrase for the whole program!”

“I’ve learned a lot and have added work that my clients are loving, and even gotten new clients. There’s a fresh buzz in my business, and my brain is full of new ideas. I’m really glad I decided to do this…… It’s really enlivened my practice, and I look forward to what happens next.”

“Karen is incredibly knowledgeable about reflexology, aromatherapy, marketing, and has really created what feels like an excellent ‘graduate program’. I really appreciated being able to ask so many questions and keep getting clarifications. I felt very well supported during the program.”

We might not be able to help everyone on this planet, but we can make a difference in our clients’ lives, and also our own. Whether you offer reflexology as a stand-alone session or combine it with massage, everyone wins. Your clients feel better; they tell others and return for more.

Register now to attend this year’s Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification. Added bonus: you’ll get to hang in the beautiful beachside resort of Saint Augustine, Florida! The program begins on April 2, so act now!

Together we can become an army for good, changing the world one sole at a time! Are you in?

Pain Management and Reflexology

Although many people are aware of the relief massage therapy offers musculoskeletal pain, many folks are surprised to learn of the long history that reflexology enjoys in this area. Some people even think that reflexology holds an advantage over massage in addressing pain disorders, because reflexology can address both pathological and non-pathological musculoskeletal pain, while massage addresses only the latter.

In North America, reflexology’s association with pain management began in the early 1900s, when Dr. William Fitzgerald, often referred to as the “father of modern reflexology”, introduced zone therapy into his medical practice. Dr. Fitzgerald successfully used reflexology to anesthetize his patients for nose and throat surgeries. One of Dr. Fitzgerald’s many research findings showed that “when pain was relieved, the condition that produced the pain was also generally relieved”.

In my reflexology practice I can think of countless times that my services resulted in long-term relief of both somatic and visceral pain: headaches, low back pain, plantar fasciitis, TMJ dysfunction, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, and menstrual cramps, to name a few.

In my own life, I can recall many occasions as well. One, in particular, stands out, when I had driven out-of-town to teach a weekend workshop. Rather suddenly I found myself with an excruciating toothache. During the workshop, I worked constantly on the teeth reflexes on my hands and was able to reduce my #9 pain to a bearable #2, until such time I could get home to have it attended to. All of that without any medication!

Some economists believe pain management to be recession-proof. That makes sense. People In pain will go to any length to find relief from their discomfort. They will look high and low for someone who can provide hope, answers and a plan that can restore function and ease. No matter the cost.

Those same economic researchers tell us that manual therapy is the fastest growing segment of the service industries, and especially now that we have recognized the dangers of using opioid drugs to alleviate pain.

If you haven’t already, maybe it’s time you joined those of us who have dedicated our lives to helping others live a life of quality? The true reward for a reflexologist is having happy clients return to say they are living pain-free.  Success like that is both gratifying and lucrative for any manual therapist.

Why Study Reflexology With Me When You Can Learn For Free Online?

I’ve heard people question why they should study reflexology in a physical classroom when they can just as easily take a free course online. That’s a reasonable question, and I’d like to address that today.

I am convinced that you cheat yourself by only watching free content online IF you are ready to get serious about reflexology, yourself, and the dream of a happier life for yourself.

If you’re still at the place in your life where surfing Internet videos engages enough of your curiosity, then do that. But, if you’re ready to dive deep, then step onto the diving board!

Free content may offer you information, but it can never produce the results that a personal instructor’s thought, effort and commitment to you and your success will deliver. It’s not possible.

Online programs are formatted for the masses; the material is generalized and nonspecific to you and your life. You deserve more than that and will need more than that if you want to build a successful practice for yourself.

From the very beginning of the Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification we focus simultaneously on mastering the two sides of a successful reflexology practice:

  1. The skills to offer a results-oriented reflexology session. That involves more than just learning hands-on techniques. It’s how to put it all together. It’s knowing how and when and why to offer what.
  1. The steps to manifest an ideal business and life for yourself. It pains me to no end to see people invest their time, money and heart into something and then never reap the rewards they imagined for themselves. For that reason, we start right at the beginning of the program to clearly visualize your dream and strategize an action plan to make that dream come true.

By the time your classroom hours are fulfilled, you will be equally adept at offering a reflexology session and have created a marketing plan to create a successful reflexology business.

And, I’ll hold you accountable to your business plan!

We’ll set up a private consultation to fine-tune your ideas for success and establish achievable goals and deadlines that will get the results you want. I’ll hold you to your commitment (unless, of course, you don’t want that support).

I wish I had had a coach when I started out; someone to help me to move past the limiting beliefs that stopped me from being all that I was meant to be. I didn’t, so I had to figure it all out for myself. Let me be your personal coach – make your journey easier than mine was.

Another thing to consider when contemplating whether to take an online course (free or paid) or take your reflexology certification in a classroom setting:

If you wish to become nationally board-certified in reflexology, or licensed in reflexology (five US states require a specific license to practice reflexology) and/or hold a Professional level membership with the national and/or state reflexology organizations, you will require live classroom hours of training – plenty of them. These organizations consider live classroom instruction, supervision and feedback essential to attaining the skills to practice safely and effectively.

I charge for my reflexology trainings because I see value in what I have to offer. I’m proud of my teaching abilities and have been recognized nationally by the Reflexology Association of America for “serving as a role model for all educators to inspire students to aspire to create a successful life on their own terms.”

I’m way better than free!

Join us (this year only) in Gainesville, Florida for the 22nd Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification. Classes start April 4, so act now.

The Gift

People often tell me that I have an amazing gift.

I’m always a little baffled when I hear that. Not to sound self-deprecating, but what does that mean? What do these well-intentioned folk mean by ‘gift’? A special talent? Something that was bestowed upon me by some greater power? Something I was born with?

Or is it something that I cultivated?

I wasn’t born a reflexologist, and neither was I born an inspiring teacher.

I cultivated skills to be able to do what I do.  And, these skills were acquired later in my life.

I didn’t have a clue in my earlier years what I ‘wanted to be when I grew up’. I just kind of followed my nose and did whatever interested me. That road eventually led me to formalized trainings in subjects such as herbology, nutrition, meditation, aromatherapy, personal growth, massage therapy and yes, reflexology.

The one thing I did know at a very early age was that I wasn’t cut out to be a school teacher (boring), bank teller (hate math) or nurse (fainted at the sight of blood). And those were the only job opportunities placed in front of me! That was it!

I knew that I didn’t want a job that just paid me. I wanted to derive meaning from my work and I wanted to look forward to getting up every morning to do that work. I wanted to contribute something of value.

Does this sound like you? Do you yearn for more than just work? Do you want what you do to matter? And to be rewarded monetarily for your time and skill?

Well, you can have that. No matter how young or old you are, how healthy or unhealthy, how confident or not so confident. If you hold a sincere desire to heal yourself and through that process to touch the lives of as many other people as possible to help them improve the quality of their lives, then you can fashion a life for yourself that matters.

I know you can – because I did!

My real passion is to inspire others on their chosen path of self-inquiry. And yes, I realize that path may not be a career as a practicing reflexologist.

Participation in the Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification may turn you in another direction. That’s fine with me. And that’s because the mission of the Academy of Ancient Reflexology is to create an environment in which people learn how they can improve first the quality of their own lives – and then others – through the vehicles of reflexology, aromatherapy, service and self-awareness – or – perhaps not.

The 2019 Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification starts April 4 in Gainesville, Florida. Join me for a comprehensive course like nothing you have experienced before.

The Sky Is NOT The Limit!

I hear lots of people say that 2019 is going to be an amazing year. I know that must feel like a beacon of hope for a lot of people; 2018 was a tough one for many.

But, how do we know that this year will be better? Is it possible to foretell what sort of year is ahead?

Sometimes, I like to look at the astrological events going on that might impact our experiences here on Earth. I don’t claim to understand it all, but I like balancing the mundane earthly events that we give so much credence to with the heavenly influences of the surrounding universe. I like to believe that there is more going on than what I can see; that there are forces greater than my own at work. It gives me a broader perspective.

So, if this interests you at all, here’s what I understand about the year ahead:

* The most beneficial of all the planetary transits in 2019 is Jupiter in Sagittarius. That’s because…

* Professional astrologers call Jupiter ‘the great benefic’; meaning it is the most beneficial planet in our solar system. And because…

* Jupiter’s home is Sagittarius, and when a planet is in its home sign we get the best that planet can offer.

That tells me that there is no better time than this year to turn dreams into reality. The entire Universe is behind me. I know from my past that my dreams – the repetitive thoughts that will not give up residence in my brain – are what steer me to live a life of purpose; give me a reason to get out of bed each morning (even on these cold mornings!). I also know equally well that ignoring my dreams and aspirations is what alienates me from myself, leading to all sorts of unwanted feelings and outcomes.

And I suspect I’m not alone in this.

Jupiter helps us to be more in sync with the opportunities that surround us. And, if you have found it difficult to notice the opportunities that align with your purpose, never fear. Sagittarius is here!

You’ve probably seen images of Sagittarius, the archer. Depicted as half horse, half man, he lives in unity with both his animal and divine natures.

Sagittarius aims far, farther than the stars his arrow points to.

Sagittarius is here to inform us that the sky is not the limit!

Sagittarius reminds us that possibility lies beyond what we can see; that we can achieve anything if the target is aligned with integrity and our life’s purpose. Those feelings of excitement that fire deep within us when we identify a goal are Sag’s way of reminding us that we can do more; that there is a reason for our existence on this planet. I think it is our responsibility to move forward on our dreams – the world needs what each of us is uniquely here to offer.

Stay excited people!

Make 2019 the year that you seek meaning and purpose. It may be for the first time in your life or maybe you’re at a threshold where it’s time to write a new chapter in the book of your life. Whatever – just do it!

The universe rearranges itself to accommodate your picture of reality. It’s the physical law of action and reaction. So, shoot higher than you’ve ever imagined possible.

If it is your dream to help people improve the quality of their lives – as well as your own – take advantage of this opportunity:

Take a short quiz and see if reflexology might just be your path, as it was mine. If you decide not, then keep your eyes open – Jupiter will deliver!

Are Advanced Credentials Worth It?

“No matter how rigorous or extended, your initial training will only see you through the first five years. Then you will be doing one of two things: subsiding into a rut, or chafing at the bit to be able to do more. “ Thomas Myers

When I read Myers’ comments recently, I was reminded of the years following the completion of my initial reflexology training and later massage program. His statements echoed my experience, for sure. I felt like I had a strong foundation in both disciplines, but recognized that I lacked advanced information that would allow me to be more effective in helping people with very specific challenges. And, today when I read posts from fairly recent grads on various Facebook reflexology groups, my thoughts are confirmed. Most have no clue as to how to create a targeted session for the clients arriving with complicated and serious health concerns.

It’s why I’m a big advocate of advanced certifications, and why when I’m looking for a therapist, I look first to their training resume.

A Specialty Certification indicates, to me, the following:

* Expertise in the field; exceeding entry-level requirements

* Demonstration of proven critical thinking skills, deeper knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathology, indications and contraindications

* A serious commitment to contributing to the health and well-being of others

* An expanded ability to effectively treat those seeking help

I also agree with Til Luchau’s thoughts stated in a recent national bodywork magazine:

“People often pick careers in massage and bodywork because they require so little training. Although that means we start working and earning relatively quickly, it also means we rapidly get to the limits of our knowledge, abilities and earning power. It might also be part of why so many in our profession don’t last more than a couple of years. But it’s also an explanation for why those who do last, thrive and develop satisfying careers are so often voracious learners who see education as something that extends over their entire lives.”

I love being in classes with like-minded people intent on improving themselves and the lives of others. It’s inspiring to me and renews my interest in what I do. (In all honesty, I also love, that I get to be the student for a change; no responsibility!)

The advantages of investing in one’s career through advanced schooling are many. Here are some that come to my mind:

* your business will grow, both through word-of-mouth and professional referrals

* your practice will open up to new and varied clients, stimulating your intellect and calling on you to work outside your routine

* renewed motivation, enthusiasm and passion

* increased confidence

* professional respect

* self-fulfillment

* STAND OUT IN THE CROWD!

If you are thinking of tackling a certification program, there are important questions to ask when shopping around:

* Is the program content adequately described?

* What is the limit on the number of participants? The student/instructor ratio?

* Are learning outcomes stated? What you will be able to do with this additional knowledge?

* Are the number of learning objectives reasonable for the length and cost of the program? (A colleague just told me about seeing an ad for ‘a fully credited reflexology course online for only $19.99′. Buyer beware!)

* What are the instructor’s credentials?

If you are thinking that you would like to add reflexology to your skill set, I would be thrilled if you would take a look at the Academy’s Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification. The next program begins in April. Contact me if you don’t find answers to all your questions; I’m happy to chat.

Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification

Learn how to skillfully use reflexology for the purpose of deep relaxation and/or to support people facing health challenges that threaten the quality of their lives.

Embark on a new career focus or embellish an already existing healthcare practice. Learn how to combine reflexology with services you currently offer to produce noticeably longer-lasting benefits for your clients, and consequently a substantial increase in business for you. STAND OUT IN THE CROWD!

Graduates of the Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification help individuals confront the most challenging aspects of their lives through skilled touch, loving respect and non-judgmental appreciation for the difficulties inherent in charting a path of recovery through the maze of conflicting information and personal beliefs that get in the way of living a healthy and happy life.

The program is taught in five 5-day modules. Attendance at all five modules in the same year is required.

2019 Program Dates:
April 4 through 8, 2019
May 30 through June 3, 2019
July 25 through 29, 2019
September 12 through 16, 2019
October 31 through November 4, 2019

Location: The Body Shop, Gainesville, Florida

Credits: 315 credit hours, including outside assignments.

Included in the cost of the program:

  • 250-page manual
  • Free listing on the Academy of Ancient Reflexology’s directory of certified reflexologists
  • One-year membership with the Reflexology Association of America and Florida Association of Reflexologists (for Florida residents)
  • Placement of research case study in national and international publications
  • Free on-going support during and following graduation.

 Curriculum Focus:

  • Location of reflex points in the hands and feet, and techniques and procedures to effectively palpate these reflexes on oneself and others
  • Physiological systems of the body, and the role reflexology plays in maintaining optimum functioning of these systems
  • Homeostatic imbalances that can occur in the human body and how to design a reflexology session to address those conditions
  • Uncovering your strongest appeal as a reflexologist, and developing successful, ethical marketing strategies to create a unique, viable healthcare business
  • Theories, benefits and research conclusions regarding reflexology

 Activities:

  • Operate professional reflexology clinics, utilizing health history and documentation charts designed for reflexology
  • Develop and implement two community outreach events, one on your own and one with your classmates
  • Prepare a research case study for national and international publication

Investment:$3079
Discounts and payment plans are available.

I keep the class size small so as to insure that I can give everyone lots of attention and supervision, and so that we can co-create an environment of safety and intimacy in which to learn, grow and have fun.

Enrollment is well under way, so ACT NOW to reserve your seat.

A certification program in any subject is a commitment of time and resources. Your choice is best determined by how you think and feel after some self-inquiry and careful research. Answer these questions for yourself. Determine if this program is right for you.

Specialization: The Key To Success

With the number of massage therapists in the US approaching 100,000, it is essential that you create a niche for yourself in order for your business to survive.

Responding to the question, “What do you do?” with, “I’m a massage therapist” seldom grabs anyone’s attention, except perhaps the individual who aims to get a free shoulder rub at that party you’re both attending.

I recognized early on as a Florida licensed massage therapist that I had a big advantage over other therapists. I was also a certified reflexologist, so I could not only help people with musculoskeletal (MS) pain but also those dealing with internal imbalances such as digestive issues, thyroid disorders, diabetes, headaches and cancer.

Looking back, the trajectory of my career has been interesting. I started out as a reflexologist in Canada; that was the only hands-on discipline I offered. I quickly built a practice in Toronto but longed to live in a climate that was warmer all year round. That landed me in Florida (rather circuitously, but that’s another story!).

Newly licensed as a Florida massage therapist, and eager to get my hands on as many people as possible, I included reflexology in all of my massage sessions. I quickly learned, from client testimonials, that they got far better results with their MS pain from my work than they had from former massage therapists, and in addition experienced improvement in other internal imbalances. I attributed that to the reflexology, not to any superhuman massage skills on my end.

That dual skillset helped me STAND OUT in the ever-growing crowd of massage therapists in Gainesville (home of the famed Florida School of Massage). Although my work, in the beginning, both in my private clinical practice and with the chiropractor I worked with for four years, initially was focused on MS pain, I found that more and more clients presented with health issues beyond MS ones. I was grateful for the training as a reflexologist that had prepared me to address those imbalances as well. Again, I stood out in the crowd.

When I moved to the coastal city of Saint Augustine in 2003, I took a big leap of faith and introduced myself professionally as a reflexologist, not a massage therapist. I did that for two reasons: First, so that I would STAND OUT from the other licensed massage therapists. I was trained and very experienced by this time in a modality that no one else could claim. Secondly, and maybe more importantly, I wanted to be able to help people with all their physical and emotional health issues, not just musculoskeletal, and to do that with the least wear and tear on my body. Reflexology was the obvious solution.

So, if you’re finding it difficult to make a name for yourself – and ultimately, make a decent living in the touch industry – and/or if you want to work smarter and not harder; STAND OUT, not just fit in; then you owe it to yourself to at least look into becoming a certified reflexologist.

2018 program starts April 12. Please call to discuss if the Therapeutic Hand & Foot Professional Reflexology Certification is a good fit. No obligation. No pressure.