Julie Wesling
Compassionate Teacher
I started my career as a bodyworker late in life. Entering massage school at 47 (older than any other student, older even than the instructor!), I thought I’d finally figured out what I wanted to be when I grow up.
But like many therapists, I struggled to find my true niche. I took lots of different continuing education courses, seeking a way to differentiate myself, help others reach their optimal health through natural means, and also feel highly fulfilled without becoming depleted physically or mentally.
I tried (unsuccessfully) to be different therapists for different clients, using the gentlest lymphatic massage for post-surgery patients, and much deeper neuromuscular therapy for stressed-out athletes. Sometimes I didn’t know quite what to do, and I felt confused and ineffective.
In 2014 I enrolled in the Academy’s foot Reflexology workshop taught by Jenny Runde. The opening of the class included a reading from The Tao of Leadership by John Heider. My favorite paragraph is this:
“As you rely less and less on knowing just what to do, your work will become more direct and more powerful. You will discover that the quality of your consciousness is more potent than any technique or theory or interpretation.”
By letting go of the arrogance of thinking we must know “just what to do,” by following our intuition and allowing for unspoken communication between the client’s tissues and the therapist’s hands, by empowering each body to tap into its own amazing powers of healing, I learned that we can accomplish astounding results with reflexology. I’ve seen it in my practice, and I’ve experienced it for myself.
After the first workshop, I immediately inquired about the Academy’s comprehensive Reflexology Certification Program. I know I had to learn more! I had found my true calling, a “home” for my skills and training and knowledge and life experience and desire to give. I was part of the Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification class of 2015.
As soon as I finished the Certification program, I asked Director Karen Ball about teaching the foot reflexology workshop that had started me on this path. A year later, after practicing and speaking publicly on reflexology every opportunity I could, I began a teacher training program with the Academy.
I feel passionate about helping people feel as good as they can, as naturally as possible. I love performing reflexology, I love receiving reflexology, I am excited about the many positive benefits of reflexology, and I welcome the opportunity to bring this knowledge to others so that more people can give and receive and reap the benefits of this wonderful healing modality.
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