Academy of Ancient Reflexology

Professional Therapeutic Reflexology

A Legend Dies

Dwight Byers, the founder of the International Institute of Reflexology in St. Petersburg, Florida, has passed away. Dwight was the nephew of Eunice Ingham, our ‘mother’ of reflexology, and devoted his entire life to spreading her teachings around the world. His loss is felt by many around this planet.

I got to know Dwight a bit over the last three years since my involvement with the Florida Association of Reflexologists. He was a committed supporter of our Association right from the get-go and liked to call me every once in a while, to just chat. He wasn’t much for technology, but he did like to talk!

You may be interested in learning a little bit more about this colorful, dynamic man. Rest in peace, Dwight Byers.

The New Classroom

In two weeks, I’ll be on the road to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to teach my first workshop since February! Yikes! I hope I remember how to behave! 🥴

Throwing a gathering now is not as easy as it was before. I ended up changing the venue so that I could have a larger space. I want to allow for more than six feet between tables. I’ve been constantly running through the days in my mind and determining what precautions I will need to take to ensure that all of us are safe.

One thing I realized just a couple of days ago was that I could no longer accept an odd number of participants in my classes. I don’t want two people standing at the foot of the table working at the same time. So, accepting registrations is a little trickier than usual.

2021

As I stated in an earlier blog, next year will likely be my last year of teaching reflexology. I plan to teach as much as I can and am opening up my calendar now to schedule the 2021 events. I already know I will be heading to Atlanta, Georgia; Gainesville, St. Petersburg, Ocala, Deland and Saint Augustine, Florida; Memphis, Tennessee; Arizona; Toronto and Winnipeg, Canada. Please reach out as soon as possible to put your locale on the schedule, if you want me to come to you. I plan to drive to as many places as I can, so as to avoid airports and airplanes!

Safety Precautions

I fully expect to be putting safety procedures into place until the end of 2021. Here’s what I will insist on, first from the venue, then myself and of course, the attendees:

Hotels

* Increased industry-standard cleaning and sanitation procedures for guest rooms, based on recent guidance from the CDC, WHO and the AMLA (American Hotel & Lodging Association)

* Daily housekeeping service by request

* Unnecessary items removed from guest rooms

* Streamlined processes between guests and hotel associates to minimize contact, including clearly marked distancing spaces

* Disinfection of high-traffic areas and sanitizing stations throughout the hotel

In the Classroom:

* No-touch thermal temperatures will be taken at the arrival of all classes days

* More than six feet of distance will be set out between massage tables and lecture seating

* A fresh face covering (covering both nose and mouth) required while in the classroom

* Each attendee is expected to use their own table coverings, towels, foot tub and foot lubricants, and to use fresh linens on each day of class

* Tables are to be disinfected between usages. Participants should bring the disinfectant they typically use to safely sanitize their table surfaces.

* Frequent use of hand sanitizer throughout the days. I will bring and suggest that all participants bring as well.

* Classroom will be vacuumed, cleaned and sanitized, and trash removed prior to each day of classes. Hotels will be expected to follow industry-standard cleaning and sanitation procedures based on recent guidelines from the CDC, WHO and the AMLA (American Hotel & Lodging Association). In non-hotel venues, I will work with owners to ensure that standards as set out by the ABMP (Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals) and the FSMTB (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards) are carried out. I will either personally clean the classroom at the end of each day or arrange to have the owners do so.

* Other guidelines will be explained upon arrival, dependent on the variables of the various locations.

In a Nutshell

No matter the extra expense and effort that it will now take to present quality trainings, I am committed to giving it my all this next year. I love and have sorely missed, sitting with others of my tribe and sharing information, stories and our hearts. I imagine you have missed that in your life also, so let’s plan our lives – while minimizing risk –  to once again include communing with our friends and colleagues. Contact me if you want me to visit.

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.

The Magic Of Soap And 20 Seconds

Like you, I have seen many videos and read a lot of instructions on how to wash your hands to rid them of possible germs (read Coronavirus). However, I have never seen a video like this one. Its explanation of how soap annihilates viruses and why 20 seconds is the magic number is soooo good! To increase your own understanding, I encourage you to take less than 4 minutes of your life to watch this exceptional video.

 

 

How to Work Your Lymph Reflexes

Today’s blog is a continuation of the one I previously published entitled, Here’s How I’m Doing It. I want to update one point I made regarding how I’m taking care of myself during the Coronavirus and share a video of how you can work on your own lymph reflexes to support your immune system.

When I wrote the previous blog on March 10, I was under the impression that the Coronavirus caused a form of flu. I later learned this not to be true (again something I shared on the Academy’s Facebook page on March 19). In my ‘normal, regular life’ (whatever that is!), I travel around with hand sanitizers that are made from witch hazel, which is what I wrote about in the last blog. With what I understand now about the Coronavirus I have decided to stick with hand sanitizers that are (rubbing) alcohol-based, at least 60%.

In that previous blog, I also shared that I work my lymph reflexes every night when I get into bed. For those of you who are unfamiliar with where those are on the hands and feet, or how to work them, here is a short video to show you.

Given the choice, I would work on both my feet and hands, if just one, the feet. If you are unable to work your feet, definitely work your hands!

Stay strong. Stay well. We will get through this.

Here’s How I’m Doing It

As someone who regularly interacts with the public (in my clinic) and travels the continent to teach groups of people, I’ve had to think a lot about the Coronavirus.  I’m often asked my opinion and “What to do?”

So, I thought I would share ‘how I’m doing it’.

I’m taking care of myself. 

* First off, I’ve stopped reading articles and social media posts on the topic (most of which just say the same thing). They are way too fear-based for me. I know that operating from fear releases a cascade of harmful chemicals in my body that will interfere with my immune system’s ability to combat viruses and bacteria. And right now, I need to focus on maintaining a strong immune system. That is my main defense. People with strong immune systems are experiencing very mild symptoms from the Coronavirus.

* To start my days calmly, I meditate, even if it’s only for 10 minutes.
* I start the day with a positive attitude, believing in the health of my mind and body to take care of me.

* As a way to manage stress, I make sure to spend a few moments throughout the day taking deep, slow breaths. Intentional breathing calms the mind, which strengthens the immune system.

* I’m making sure to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Sleep boosts T-cells which helps fight viruses.

* I’m staying mindful of my eating choices. It’s too easy in a time of unrest to resort to high sugar, empty calories to get an immediate hit of feel-good hormones – however, in times like this, what my body needs most is healthy phytonutrients found in organic fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds.
* I’m staying away from alcohol, too.

* Stimulating my lymphatic system by working the lymph reflexes of my feet in bed each night and dry skin-brushing before my evening shower.
* Moving every day. Whether it’s a walk on the beach, a little yoga, lifting a few weights – something to move the lymph, boost immunity and keep the stress level down.

Preventative Measures

* Number 1: I’m washing my hands more and for a longer time. Happy birthday to me – twice.
* Doing my best to keep my hands away from my eyes, nose, and mouth.
* I keep a hand sanitizer in my car to use after touching items in public places. I like to make my own sanitizer since I find the alcohol-based ones too harsh on my skin to be using numbers of times a day. Those made with witch hazel have been shown to be just about as good. I make one with 3 ounces of witch hazel, 1 ounce of aloe vera gel and about 30 to 40 drops of essential oils. My go-to anti-viral oils are Tea tree, cinnamon, clove, lemon, and Eucalyptus radiata.

* I’m taking the following supplements: 1000 mg. Vitamin C and an anti-viral tincture. Some of the herbs known to be anti-viral are ashwagandha, oregano, olive leaf, elderberry, echinacea, and astragalus.
* I have zinc lozenges on hand if I do start to feel any symptoms as well as an oregano throat spray.
* I’m also using a product called Xlear every morning and night. It’s a saline nasal spray with grapefruit seed extract and xylitol in it that cleans, moisturizes and soothes the sinus tissues. (Great for respiratory allergies, too.)

* Keeping my distance. No handshaking. (Did you see my video post on Facebook of the ‘reflexology-shake’?)
* Except for my upcoming teaching engagements, avoiding crowds.
* Using knuckles, elbows, fists, and hips to touch and/or open things as much as I can.
* Using disinfecting wipes on surfaces such as grocery store carts, gas station pumps, my car’s steering wheel (and other surfaces I touch in my car a lot), as well as wiping my cell phone and laptop keyboard. I make a point of going around my clinic a few times a day and wiping down all door handles, sink faucets, light switches – anything that gets touched a lot by my clinic mate, clients and/or me.

The above all done and in practice, I’m just putting it all out of my mind. I’m staying focused on knowing that I am healthy and strong.

Importantly, if I do feel like I’m coming down with something, I will take to my bed. I will not go out and infect others. I will catch this bug as soon as I can and spend the two weeks of quarantine enjoying my home. My freezer is stocked and I know friends would gladly deposit healthy food on my porch should I ask. And I have a stack of books just begging to be read!

What Are You Waiting For? Stand Out In The Crowd

Graduates of the 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. They help individuals confront the most challenging aspects that get in the way of living a healthy and happy life.

And that, in my opinion, is a life worth living – a life dedicated to helping others feel better.

Some of you may be contemplating a new career focus. Others may be looking for a way to embellish an already existing healthcare practice by adding another service to your menu, or learning 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).

Since this year’s program starts soon – Thursday, April 2nd – I thought I would summarize some of the pertinent details for anyone still undecided about registering for this year’s training.

The program is taught in five 5-day modules in the historic beach town of Saint Augustine, Florida. We meet basically once every couple of months, beginning in April and ending in November; Thursday through Monday. The 2020 program dates are:

April 2 through 6, 2020

May 28 through June 1, 2020

July 23 through 27, 2020

September 17 through 21, 2020

November 12 through 16, 2020

Included in the cost of the program are:
– Video access to all hands-on techniques and protocols
– 250-page manual
– Free listing on the Academy of Ancient Reflexology’s directory of
certified reflexologists
– Student membership with the Reflexology Association of America
– Placement of your research case study in over six 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
– Theories, benefits and research conclusions regarding reflexology
– Uncovering your strongest appeal as a reflexologist, and developing
successful, ethical marketing strategies to create a unique, viable
healthcare business
– Safely incorporating adjunct modalities such as essential oil therapy and
hot and cold stones.

Activities:
– Operate professional reflexology clinics, utilizing health history and
documentation charts designed for reflexology
– Develop and implement community outreach events with your
classmates
– Prepare a research case study for national and international
publication

The total credits awarded for the Certification are 315, which more than qualifies you to sit for national board certification in reflexology and for Professional membership in the national and state reflexology associations in the United States.

I’ve structured the cost of the program to make it reachable for everyone. The base tuition is $3079, with discounts available as well as five different payment plans.

To read testimonials and more detailed information about the program, and/or to register, please visit www.academyofancientreflexology.com. Or, if you prefer, just call me! 904.553.4067

Act now though. April 2 is just over a month away!

Helping Those Who Help Themselves

I don’t know why, but I woke up this morning remembering a client from a few years ago, who had called seeking help with her painful plantar fasciitis. During the phone call, she shared that her doctor was suggesting surgery and that she did not want to go that route. She had heard that I had a protocol that helped that condition a lot. She said that she had tried cortisone shots and stretches the physical therapist had prescribed, but that she was still experiencing excruciating pain in both feet. I invited her to come in to see what we could do together.

Imagine my surprise when she hobbled in on crutches and sporting three-inch heels!!!

When I inquired if she had considered changing her shoes, she quickly informed me that was not something she was willing to do! It was then I understood why nothing was helping her and that the only plan of action the doc could suggest was surgery.

I basically told her that unless she was willing to make some significant changes, beginning with a change in footwear, all reflexology could do is bring her some temporary relief – no recovery. I told her that as long as she understood that, she was welcome to come in for a specialized plantar fasciosis session as often as she wanted. She received the session that day, left feeling some relief, and never returned. No surprise.

I think that woman was a bit of an exception though. Most people living with chronic foot pain do want to get better and are willing to do something to change the situation.

If you have people who are willing to participate in their own healing with any number of chronic foot pain conditions they are living with, then I invite you to attend the ‘How to Relieve Chronic Foot Pain’ workshops scheduled in Toronto and Pennsylvania this year. We’ll look at dozens of painful foot situations and how we can provide hands-on support and education for each. You’ll leave knowing a highly-effective hands-on approach for plantar fasciosis (what’s the difference between plantar fasciitis and fasciosis?), tarsal tunnel syndrome and peripheral neuropathy (as well as video access to that protocol so you can review whenever you want).

March 28 & 29, 2020
Toronto, ON

September 26 & 27, 2020
Harrisburg, PA

 

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.

Stress, Depression, Sleep And Your Skin

Stress wears on you – you’d have to be living under a rock not to know that. But, are you aware of how chronic stress, depression and lack of sleep affect your skin?

ŸIntense or chronic stress increases the production of cortisol, which decreases the skin’s ability to repair itself.

ŸStress causes you to tense your facial muscles, often without realizing it. Those repeated frowns and grimaces ultimately will leave their mark in the form of permanent lines.

Here are a couple of easy counteractive measures:

– Reduce stress and anxiety by exercising.

– Include gentle instructions to consciously breath when giving reflexology sessions.  That will drive more oxygen to the skin cells for healing. If you notice clients with taut facial muscles, give some attention to the reflexes of the jaw and temple.

Depression is associated with a decrease in growth-hormone synthesis, which inhibits the ability of the skin to repair itself at night.

Here are a couple of counteractive measures:

– Seek out professional help to resolve the causes of your depression; keep a referral list in your office to share with clients wishing to work through their mental health issues.

– Regular exercise – proven to help defeat depression.

– Reflexology is a wonderful antidote to depression. It allows people to feel themselves in a whole, relaxed state; the way one should feel; the way we were born to be.

Lack of sleep. Without enough deep sleep, the skin can’t properly undo daily damage. Sleep deprivation puts the body into stress mode, causing more cortisol to be produced. And that takes us right back to the top of this article!

Here are a few preventive measures:

– Get more sleep – turn off all electronic devices at least ½ hour before going to bed. Do not read with a Kindle.

– Improve your sleep hygiene. Remove all electronics from your bedroom; sleep in a very dark room; drop the room temperature to 68 or 69 degrees.

– Sleep on your back – a “smooshed” face looks creased.

– Try a short hot tub soak – 10 minutes – before heading to bed. Add some relaxing essential oils to the bath water, or spritz them on your pillowcase.

– Work on your own reflexes before going to sleep. Focus on the central nervous system, diaphragm and solar plexus reflexes to promote sleep, reduce stress and combat depression. Add in the lymphatic and liver reflexes to help with skin health.

The above is useful information to share with clients. Please feel free to print out and distribute or re-write in your own words. Clients really appreciate educational tips.