Academy of Ancient Reflexology

Professional Therapeutic Reflexology

Increasing the Efficacy of Thai Foot Reflexology

Thai Reflexology is part of a discipline in Thailand referred to as sacred bodywork. Its origins date back to India, where the ancient art of Ayurvedic medicine held that the feet (and hands) have energy openings to the external world, through which energy enters and leaves the human body. Philosophies from traditional Chinese medicine and the healing arts of Taiwan and Japan affirmed this belief and recognized the profound grounding effect that working on the feet have on both the physical and energy bodies.

Thai reflexology differs from the conventional form mostly practiced in the west in a few ways. One of the most significant is in the map of energy channels throughout the body.

In the western model most often practiced in North America, we refer to 10 longitudinal or vertical zones through which life force moves. Thai bodywork recognizes a system of energy conduits, known as sen, which are said to number 72,000. All start at, or near, the navel and are connected to various orifices in the body. Of those thousands of sen, 10 are considered the most important; six of these are addressed in Thai foot reflexology.

I created the Advanced Thai Reflexology class because many graduates of the Thai Foot Reflexology training were interested in learning more about the qualities of the sen that run through the body parts addressed in the session, as well as which systems of the body they influenced.

In this one-day class, attendees learn the location of the six sen running through the feet and lower legs, the western reflexology points along those lines, the controlling Ayurvedic dosha and Chinese meridian, and health issues and areas of the body affected by contact to these energy channels. This level of comprehension prepares therapists to increase the efficacy of Thai reflexology by targeting health issues more specifically in a client’s session.

Perhaps the most useful (and enjoyable!) part of the day though is the hands-on component. I review all techniques in a full session demo and introduce new ones that can be added to the session. Attention to accurate contact with the sen lines is prioritized. Participants then give and receive a full Thai reflexology session – a perfect opportunity to fine-tune technique and body mechanics with corrective feedback from yours truly!

I invite everyone who has completed the initial two-day training in Thai Foot Reflexology to join me on September 8 for the Advanced Thai Reflexology class. Make a weekend of it and attend the one-day Reflexology & Essential Oils: The Perfect Marriage and Reflexology Rocks! classes as well.

 

Optimal Learning

What do reflexology, chocolate, wine, good food and outdoor beauty have in common? Well, they all come together to express one of my philosophies about learning. And that is that people learn best when they are relaxed and having fun.

A confession: I like to live my life as a tax deduction. I almost always plan a few days of respite around teaching engagements or trainings I am myself attending. Teach (which barely feels like “work” to me) or study, then play and/or visit with friends – an easy way to keep some balance between work and play in my life.

This year, I planned a special event that incorporates rest and relaxation right into our time together. I added lots of fun (optional) activities (as well as time to just “chill”) into the Thai Foot Reflexology workshop schedule in Dahlonega, Georgia at the end of this month.

So, what do reflexology, giraffes, rocking chairs, the gold rush and spa services have in common? To find out, check out the Thai Reflexology Retreat listing on the Academy’s Facebook Events  page. If you’re not yet on Facebook, then visit this link.

Treat yourself to some well-deserved downtime. Only 18 hours to learn all you need to know to deliver the popular Thai Foot Reflexology session. Thai Reflexology is a great modality for athletes (especially those whose sport challenges the lower extremities), folks with painful feet and the rest of us overwhelmed by life.

 

Just Starting Out?

Recently, I was asked by the national publication Massage Magazine to write a spotlight on reflexology for massage students. In it, I explain the difference between massage and reflexology, why the public seeks out reflexology, levels of training, employment opportunities and continuing education options. As I was writing the article, I thought the information might also be useful for existing therapists trying to figure out in what direction to focus your practice; how you can stand out in the crowd. What do you think?

Thai Reflexology Crosses the Continent

Looking at my calendar this afternoon, I see that I will be sharing a lot of my hard-earned money with the airlines over the next few months!

It appears that I’m scheduled to teach the Thai Foot Reflexology workshop in four corners of the continent. Three of the four cities are new locations for me; three of the trainings are within the standard 2-day workshop format, and one is offered as part of a 4-day retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia. (I’ve written a separate post to describe what is planned for our relaxing mountain retreat.)

Over the last few months, I’ve been noticing that more and more people are getting savvy about Thai bodywork. My clients who used to request the session occasionally are asking for it more and more. These clients include runners, elders with painful feet and calves, highly stressed business men, and a woman recovering from a near-death illness that left her with numerous health challenges.

I’ve written about Thai Reflexology before, so won’t repeat myself here. Visit these links if you’d like to learn the difference between conventional and Thai reflexology, the benefits to recipient and therapist, and the impact this Buddhist-influenced art has had on my life.

Here are the only dates left on the 2012 calendar for the Thai Foot Reflexology trainings. Some have earlybird prices, so act now. This is your chance to stand out in the crowd. Please don’t miss out.

Vancouver, British Columbia – August 11 and 12

Dahlonega, Georgia – August 31 to September 3 (the retreat)

Taos, New Mexico – September 29 and 30

Minneapolis, Minnesota – October 6 and 7

 

Thai-time and Me-time!

Every few years, I like to organize a reflexology retreat; an opportunity to leisurely learn something new and relax, rejuvenate and renew in a gorgeous setting. This year’s will be no exception, and has the added benefit of being within driving distance for many folks.

The Thai Reflexology Retreat will take place in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia. Our host for four awesome autumn days will be the renown Dahlonega Spa Resort (owned by the same folks that hosted my retreat in Costa Rica).

Classes are broken up over August 31 to September 3, so as to allow plenty of time to rest and/or explore the surrounding area.

I have stayed at the resort twice in the last couple of years and left both times feeling like a new person. With great difficulty, I managed to shake myself loose from the spa and my front porch rocking chair to venture off the panoramic property. I explored the scenic area and scouted out some really fun things for us to do. (Hey, somebody had to do it!)

Please visit this link  to read about the workshop, accommodations, on-site amenities and local attractions. All-inclusive prices are very reasonable; a $300 deposit assures your opportunity to treat yourself to a well-deserved break and learn the popular Thai Reflexology protocol. You can even bring a non-participating guest with you!

 

The Influence of Buddhism on Thai Reflexology

“All we are is the result of what we have thought.” … Shakyamuni Buddha

In last month’s post I defined Thai foot reflexology and its benefits, and explained the differences between it and the form of reflexology commonly taught in North America. In this month’s article I would like to share how Thai reflexology has influenced my own life and how Buddhism has informed Thailand’s practice of medicine, including reflexology.

Credit for founding the formal structure of Thai medicine rests with one man: Jivaka Kumarabhacca. Kumarabhacca was a legendary Ayurvedic doctor known to possess great healing gifts. In addition to administering to both royalty and commoner, he was the personal physician to Lord Buddha.

Buddhism in Thailand

During its period of advancement in India between 500 BCE and 800 CE many Hindus were drawn to the teachings of the Buddha, were ordained as monks and practiced Ayurvedic medicine as a way of expressing compassion in their lives. (Ayurvedic medicine developed in India between the mid-second millennium BCE to 500 CE and is the oldest model of medicine in the world.)

Ashoka, the great 2nd century emperor of India, converted to Buddhism and sent monks out into the world with the responsibility of reaching more and more people with the teachings of the Buddha and Ayurvedic medicine. It is here that the relationship between Buddhism and health is birthed.

By the time the monks entered northern Thailand, influences from China, Japan, Taiwan and Korea were evident in a new style of medicine. (The Taiwanese, for example, added in the use of the wooden stick in the foot sessions.) The Thais embraced both Buddhism and the ideas on health and disease introduced by the monks. Buddhism became the official religion of Thailand with over 95% of the population observing. Overtime the country married these new ideas with its own and created a vibrant style of healing art that has survived for thousands of years, and even the arrival of western medicine in the country.

The Genesis of Buddhism

Just as traditional Thai medicine credits its beginning with one man, so does Buddhism.

Siddhartha Gautama, an Indian born to great wealth, literally walked away from a life of luxury at the age of 29. In his later years, people would ask him “Are you a god? An angel? A saint?” His reply to all these questions was, “No.” “Then what are you?” His response, “I am awake” became his title, for the word Buddha means, “awake.” Thus, Buddhism began with a man who roused himself from the illusion of the waking human state.

Siddhartha was the son of a regional king born around 563 BCE in what is now known as Nepal. When his son was born, the king summoned astrologers to discern his son’s future. The charts foretold the possibility of two paths in the infant’s life. Should he follow his father’s footsteps, the stars indicated that Siddhartha would unify all of India and conquer the world. Should he renounce the world though, he would live to redeem the world. The King, wanting the former, spared no effort to keep his son on track – his track.

All manner of privilege was placed at young Siddhartha’s disposal: palaces, dancing girls, rich food and drink, private tutoring in advanced military tactics and intellectual discourse. None but the philosophical pursuits interested the young prince. Orders were issued that nothing unpleasant be allowed into the prince’s courtly life. When he left the palace, servants ran ahead to clear the roads of the old, the diseased and the dead.

One day though, Siddhartha escaped his protectorate and set out on the streets on his own. For the first time in his life, this young man witnessed aging, disease and death. He also met a monk, from whom he learned about the path of renunciation. These encounters had a life-changing effect on the young prince. Siddhartha immediately recognized the source of his own dissatisfaction; the futility of finding fulfillment on the physical plane. Late one night, he kissed his sleeping wife and son goodbye and set out to fulfill his destiny. Reaching the forest edge, he discarded his royal attire, shaved his head and entered the world of asceticism.

In every austerity he outdid his teachers and fellow ascetics and eventually grew so weak that he nearly died. This experience taught him the futility of extremes – whether asceticism or privilege – and constructed the first plank of his program: the principle of the Middle Way, a path of centered moderation that holds the promise of liberation from all suffering.

Buddhism is a religion and philosophy with high moral values that lays great emphasis on human thought and action in dealing with the natural environment, society and personal challenges. It is concerned with the relationship between thoughts and behavior, and the relationship between behavior and its consequences. Interestingly, this spiritual tenant relates nicely to the modern recommendation of moderation and responsibility of which we hear so much today.

Buddhism and Thai Medicine

The Middle Way establishes the underlying principle of traditional Thai medicine, of which there are four branches:

1. Dhammanamai – spiritual practices, which nourish a healthy mind (through meditation and study of Buddhist teachings) and healthy lifestyle (by following the Middle Path).

2. Diet – whole foods and herbs.

3. Manipulation – nuad boran (ancient massage and reflexology) and movement (stretching and yoga).

4. Medicine – herbs, salves, compresses and steams.

As a point of comparison, in North America we compartmentalize ourselves to such a degree as to segregate exercise, food and lifestyle from religion and spirituality. Traditional Thai medicine does just the opposite; it integrates all these aspects of human life into one practice.

Shakyamuni Buddha taught many doctrines, but none more supreme than the science of medicine. Individuals who have taken refuge in Buddhism spend their lives mastering The Six Perfections (giving, morality & ethics, patience, effort, meditation & concentration, and wisdom), moving from one to another as each is fully understood and perfected. Within the practice of medicine though, The Six Perfections are accomplished simultaneously. That is why Thai medicine holds such an important position in the activities of the temples and how Buddhism literally informs the science and art of Thai medicine.

His Holiness, the Dalai Lama is quoted as saying, “When you are strongly motivated to work for others, you can lead a meaningful life. When you have a strong inclination to benefit others, you will find that you are always happy.” Nowhere is that more evident than in Thailand, a country dubbed The Land of Smiles.

Me

As for me, I am blessed with deep personal experiences of my own spirituality whenever I give a Thai reflexology session. The practice continually invites me to enter into my own middle path. I am gently made aware of the fact that the responsibility and possibility for healing lays within each of us, and that the appearance of separateness from others is merely an illusion.

Thai reflexology has strengthened my meditation practice, just as my spiritual efforts have supported my clinical and teaching activities. Knowing that all I have and hold in this world will vanish the moment I leave my earthly body deeply alters my daily awareness. For that I thank Thai reflexology.

If you resonate with what I’ve shared, then I urge you to expand your life and career through a two-day training in Thai Foot Reflexology.

Thai Foot Reflexology – part 1

“I’m on the floor, on my back, my left foot reaching for the ceiling; my Thai massage therapist leaning into the back of my extended leg. Got the picture? And then she casually says, ‘blah, blah, blah… Thai reflexology.’  Well, my head literally shot up from the floor! ‘You mean there is a Thai session just for the feet?’ “

And so began my study of Thai foot reflexology.” – KB

We all know that the heart pumps blood to the cells and organs of the body, and contraction of the muscles facilitates venous return. Because of this physiological function, in Asian medicine the legs are referred to as the “second heart”, and in keeping with the saying “aging starts from the legs”, the legs are considered a barometer of health.

When the soles of the feet do not receive enough stimulation, circulation of the blood in the feet and the legs tends to lessen, eventually leading to many health complications. These understandings, coupled with the centuries-old recognition of reflexive spots in the feet that can influence the well being of the rest of the body, underlie the importance of footwork in Asia, and are reflected in the fact that all Asian bodywork sessions begin with the feet.

Of the four branches of traditional Thai medicine, reflexology is arguably the most popular treatment used to maintain health in Thailand. As well as the monks and doctors providing treatments, it is not uncommon to see rows of people seated at the side of the street at the end of the day exchanging sessions with one another.

What is Thai Reflexology?

Thai reflexology is a manual therapy for the feet, lower legs and knees that developed in Thailand about 2000 years ago. People receiving Thai reflexology always report feeling relaxed afterwards; the treatment is also more often described as refreshing and revitalizing, as opposed to sedating.

Thai reflexology is often referred to as the “marriage of India and Asia”, because it incorporates elements of India’s Ayurvedic medicine (which are its origin), Japanese shiatsu and Chinese reflexology. Utilizing stretching and a variety of manual techniques, including the use of a specifically tooled wooden stick, Thai reflexology seeks to restore balance within the body’s 72,000 sen (energy lines).

And although a practitioner may be very familiar with specific reflexology points commonly displayed on North American foot charts, the focus is never on those points, but rather on removing energy blockages and strengthening the flow of lom (energy) within the sen. With that accomplished, the body is then free to restore itself and to correct whatever imbalances are present.

When asked how Thai reflexology compares to our western model of reflexology, Thais will respond with the colloquialism “same same”, which translates to “similar and not the same”.

In the west, the focus is on points, with the intent to improve the functioning of the related organs and glands. Although desire to foster better health within the organs is part of a Thai session, the focus is more on encouraging the flow of energy. The Thai practitioner rarely thinks of points – he or she trusts that all are being stimulated through the well thought-out and time-proven protocol and techniques. The ordered sequence of moves and techniques are all designed to systematically open up the sen lines, free blocked energy and stimulate the reflex points.

Traditional medicine practices around the world recognize that symptoms are not the disease, are not the enemy, are not static; symptoms/sensations are simply the language of the body, the voice crying out for help. Therefore the Thai practitioner will work to alter the flow of energy and strengthen the healing ability of the body, rather than attempt to eliminate symptoms.

The Benefits

From the therapist’s perspective Thai reflexology is a very enjoyable and engaging modality to administer. Although the session can be offered on the floor or in chairs, in the west it is most often proffered using a massage table and stool. It requires not only the therapist’s attention and presence, but also the full participation of the therapist’s body. Techniques originate within the practitioner’s body and are transferred by way of body movement to that of the recipient. By moving his/her own body during the session the practitioner reduces the likelihood of muscle stiffness that can result from remaining stationary for a length of time and also encourages lymphatic function. Repetitive strain injuries are avoided through the application of a variety of techniques that put little stress on the digits or vulnerable joints of the hands.

For the recipient, the benefits of Thai foot reflexology are wide ranging. Various sources and clinical testimonies report benefits that include:

  • improved circulation in the legs and hands;
  • improved lymphatic drainage;
  • increased removal of waste deposits and toxins;
  • elevated functioning of the immune system;
  • reduced stiffness and improved flexibility;
  • accelerated physical healing;
  • relief from stress;
  • improved sleep; and
  • increased mental clarity and performance.

Next month, I will write a little about the influence of Buddhism on Thai reflexology and the ways in which practicing and teaching Thai reflexology have deeply impacted my own life.

Upcoming classes: Unlike the conventional style of reflexology practiced in America, which requires many hours of training to become proficient in, Thai reflexology can be learned in just two days of study. Visit here often to see dates and details for Thai Foot Reflexology workshops and retreats as they are scheduled in 2012.

 

Aims, Objectives and 108 New Appointments!

Do you know the difference between an aim and an objective? Making those distinctions clearly can make the difference between being successful or not, when attempting to reach a goal. Read how one woman is parlaying her understanding of these terms into 108 new appointments!

Shea Englebright, a certified reflexologist and yoga instructor in Orlando, Florida, was so excited after her Thai foot reflexology training last month that she immediately put into action an idea that had been brewing in her brain for awhile. Eager to share her passion for Thai reflexology and, as Shea put it, “practice the bejeesus out of it until it became like breathing”, she transformed her idea into reality by first clearly identifying her aims and objectives, and then determining the best methods by which to reach her goals.

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Before looking at Shea’s successful strategy, let’s look at the difference between an “aim” and an “objective”.

An aim is a general goal. It’s not necessarily measurable and it’s usually long-term. Think what, not how. This is where you dream BIG!

An objective works towards fulfilling your aim. Objectives are specific, measurable and short-term (usually just a few months). Working with objectives will change your life; the satisfaction of reaching one is amazing.

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And now, with Shea’s permission, I share the creative and well-thought-out plan that quickly manifested her dream. You can apply this formula to any professional or personal goal.

Shea’s Aims

1. Show respect for the tradition of Eastern cultures by paying homage to my teacher, honoring the art and lineage of the work and contributing to the well-being of all humankind. (In the East, it is customary for healers to give sessions freely as a way to show this respect.)

2. Define myself as a successful businesswoman and therapist in the community.

Shea’s Objectives

1. Turn Orlando onto the many benefits that Thai reflexology has to offer.

2. Infuse my bodywork and yoga practices with increased revenue during the slower summer months.

3. Develop enough confidence and familiarity so as not to even think about it (or refer to the illustrated manual) when giving a Thai reflexology session. (With the techniques in the background, Shea was free to allow the power of her consciousness to play the leading role in both her client’s and her own experience of the work. For that to happen, she had to find a way to do lots of sessions.)

Shea’s Methods (This is where it got really creative!)

1. Invite Amplified Culture to a yoga class followed by a Thai foot reflexology session. No charge. Providing reviews of great locally owned businesses, Amplified Culture is an Orlando operation run by two bloggers who aim to inspire residents to explore the bounty their city has to offer them (as opposed to tourists). That review and accompanying photos are how people learned about Thai reflexology being offered in Orlando.* This priceless advertising cost Shea nothing other than a few hours of her time, and provided her with a target audience to which she then offered the following challenge:

2. Help her reach a goal of 108 Thai reflexology sessions by September 1.** Shea offered the first 27 people a FREE session. The next 54 sessions (27 x 2) were priced at $27 and the last 27 sessions, $54. The significance of the number 27 is that there are 27 points worked in a Thai reflexology session. (Once the promotion ends, the fee for the session goes up to $80.)

I checked in with Shea a few hours ago to see how her “hearty special” (as she calls it) was doing. Here’s her response, five weeks after announcing her new specialty:

“It has been a HUGE success and pleasure for me. So far, I have booked 70 sessions before the end of August, and another 12 in September. People LOVE this bodywork and really appreciate a break on price of course. Everyone who came in for a free session came back or sent someone else in for a paid session. I have met dozens of new clients through the promotion and also made myself well known in my new studio where I offer the work.

I can’t speak highly enough of Thai foot reflexology on its own. It is a pure joy to practice the art and know that it works. After administering 38 already, I have only had one person not totally love it to death, and his verdict is still not certain.”

I thank Shea for sharing her successful experience with us, and invite everyone to take example from the simple process of clarifying aims, objectives and methods to attain your goals.

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PS. While writing this post, I was very much affected by Shea’s generosity, and found myself unconsciously visualizing a version of her strategy to introduce a new class that I want to start offering this year. The details are not totally worked out in my head yet, so I’ll withhold saying anything right now; however ….

If you are not already signed up to receive blog posts, I urge you to do so right now. (The registration form is at the top of this page.)  I will announce very soon what will be an incredible opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge in one day of fun, hands-on activities. The cost to do so will be hard to resist – guaranteed!  The offer will be made on this blog site only, and will be open to readers of this blog only.

In the meantime, if you want to learn how to give a Thai foot reflexology session, check out the two remaining workshops scheduled for this year. The first is next weekend, May 21 & 22, in Gainesville, Florida. The second is August 6 & 7 in Seattle, Washington.

* Read why Shea chose the number 108. Scroll down to Religion and Arts on the page.

** Read what the women from Amplified Culture had to say about their time at Shea’s studio.

 

May Workshops

There are only two weekend workshops scheduled for May, so don’t miss out.

The first is May 14 and 15 in Naples, Florida. This should be a really fun event; the workshop will be held in a private studio on a large piece of property just off I75. Easy to get to, lots of parking and a restful location surrounded by nature. This class is perfect for someone wanting to provide Foot Reflexology for the purpose of relaxation, and/or add it into a massage session to increase desired results.

And to sweeten the deal, our host has graciously offered a free reflexology poster to every attendee, so act now!

May 21 and 22 will find me in Gainesville, Florida to teach the two-day training in Thai Foot Reflexology. This is always a popular class, so I recommend you register sooner than later.

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 1900’s, when Dr. William Fitzgerald, often referred to as the “father of modern reflexology”, introduced zone therapy into his medical practice. Dr. Fitzgerald successfully utilized reflexology techniques to anesthetize his patients for nose and throat surgeries. One of Dr. Fitzgerald’s many research findings also taught us 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, neck and 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 level to a bearable #2, until such time I could get home to have it attended to. All of that without any medication!

Like massage, reflexology is divided into the relaxation model and the pain management model. Because I personally believe that relaxation is the basis of health, I choose to include instruction for both protocols in the Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification. In the program, students learn how to specifically address well over 50 pathological and non-pathological imbalances that cause acute and chronic discomfort and pain. When they have completed their training, these folks are well-equipped to help people seeking their assistance.

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 industry. If you haven’t already, maybe it’s time you joined those of us who have dedicated our lives to helping others live their best life? 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.

What’s been your experience with pain management and reflexology?