No two feet are alike. The same applies to reflexologists. Missouri, Kansas, and Illinois do not have licensure for reflexology. Yet, reflexology is one of the most requested bodywork therapies in the U.S. What makes reflexology special and how does someone like YOU choose a professional?
Modern-Day Reflexology
Reflexologists use fingers and hands to work specific areas (both large and small) called reflexes on the feet, hands, ears, and face. In the United States, the objective is to encourage the body to normalize, balance, and heal itself. In other countries, reflexology plays an important role in the national healthcare system.
Health Benefits of Reflexology
Reflexology works on physical, mental and emotional levels. Persons of all ages benefit from reflexology. The U.S. National Institutes of Health multiyear study proved the effectiveness of reflexology to reduce pain, improve sleep, and improve functionality in breast cancer patients. Hospital studies in India showed therapeutic reflexology reduced pain levels, decreased the need for pain medications, reduced nausea, and improved sleep following surgery.
Clinical research and case studies in the United States, China, Spain, Great Britain, and other countries prove the efficacy of professional reflexology to support a variety of acute and chronic conditions.
With so many benefits and potential, how does the consumer – that’s YOU – choose a skilled professional to address your concerns with knowledge and skill?
How to Hire a Reflexologist
Choosing the right reflexologist is no easy task, says Kristie Macan Martin, BA, CR, in Overland Park, KS. To start, locate a professional reflexologist. A professional reflexologist is one that has completed formal training from a hands-on reflexology institution and not through an online, mail correspondence course, nor short weekend course that is added to another therapy. Like with any profession, it takes time to develop the knowledge, skills, and applicability under qualified instructors and schools.
“The important thing about reflexology is to know – really know (not guess) — where the reflexes are located and the most effective methods to work them,” said Paula Stone, director of The Stone Institute LLC, author of the international favorite Therapeutic Reflexology, and founding member of the Reflexology Association of Missouri. “That knowledge and skill comes with training.”
“We have many outstanding professional reflexologists in our region,” said Ms. Stone, “Most have 300 or more hours of formal hands-on training in reflexology, know the latest research, eagerly expand their knowledge, and are active at the state and national levels.”
Locate a Professional Reflexologist
Reflexology Association of Missouri professional reflexologists have completed a minimum of 300 hours specialized training. To locate professionals in Missouri, eastern Kansas, and western Illinois, visit www.reflexologyassociationofmissouri.org.