Research in reflexology is ongoing proving the benefits. As a natural and harmless way to health, the application is used to obtain relief from all kinds of conditions from general stress to specific disorders often where conventional treatment has failed. Chronic conditions seem to respond particularly well to reflexology. In addition to the reduction of stress, a physical benefit of a session improves blood and lymph circulation, which provides increased oxygenation to body tissue. The improved circulatory activity affects internal systems and organs, helping to relieve symptoms of physical hardships, which include digestive difficulties, sluggish motility and pain associated with various physical conditions. Many other benefits have been well documented as well.
Reflexology can be used to maintain good health, to build resistance and to prevent illness. Mental and physical tension is released, a state of relaxation is induced and energy and vitality abound. Simply put, the art of reflexology promotes the restoration of balance and harmony, which brings about optimum health.
If you have never received a session, it will begin with a brief health history and an explanation on how reflexology works and what happens during a session. You will be informed that Reflexology does not treat specific illnesses and is not a substitute for medical treatment. You may be asked to sign a consent form.
If the Reflexologist chooses to work on your feet, you will lie or sit down, remaining fully clothed except for your shoes and socks. Most session will occur on a therapy table or reclining chair. The Reflexolgist will wash your feet and/or soak them in warm water, then position them at his or her chest level. The session will start with a foot assessment making note of open wounds, rashes, sores, plantar warts or bunions. You will also be asked about any foot or leg pain that could hinder treatment. The application of Reflexology on areas where any open wounds or infections is clearly evident may be avoided and the Practitioner may choose to wear surgical gloves or not treat the specific areas or the entire foot at all.
Regardless of your health the Reflexologist focuses on the entire pattern of the foot, generally starting with relaxation techniques and then working the toes and subsequently the entire foot. Sensitivities and tight or hard tissue areas will be noted by the Practitioner during the session. These areas as well as any corresponding pressure points relating to specific conditions you may be experiencing will be assessed and carefully and mindfully worked. According to Reflexology, this allows the nerve pathways and congestion to release, promoting the relaxation response of the entire body. An important point to remember is that the Reflexologist stimulates the nervous system and other bodily systems to move towards homeostasis, it is not the Reflexologist who "fixes" it.
Generally, sessions last between 30-60 minutes. You can rest or talk during the session at your discretion. If you fall asleep during the session, which commonly occurs, you will still receive the benefits of the treatment. Feedback during or after the session is encouraged. A session can be stopped at any time upon request.
Is the HCP Foot Reflexology Diploma Course Recognized by other Reflexology organizations?
Yes, by the Reflexology Association of British Columbia and the British Columbia College for Registered Massage Therapists.
What prerequisites are associated with the Foot Diploma Course?
You must have a willingness or desire to learn human anatomy and physiology and be comfortable touching and working on the feet of others. If you are under 19 years of age a consent form, completed by your Parent or Guardian, must also be submitted with your application.
How long does it take to complete the course?
The in-class study and instruction portion of the course will require 6 consecutive days or 6 days split into segments over 2-3 weekends, beginning on Friday or Saturday and ending on the following Sunday. The Home study workbook must be completed within 1 month after the in-class instruction and the 60 self regulated case studies or 100 hours of reflexology application before the first year anniversay of the course start date. The written examination is held on the final day of in-class instruction. The practical examination to be scheduled after completing the case studies or hour requirements. Both case studies/hour requirments and practical examination must be completed before the 1 year anniversary date. Failure to complete all course requirements before this date may result in having to repeat the entire course.
Why is the self-regulated study measured in 60 case studies or 100 hours?
Students must complete 60 case studies or 100 hours of self regulated reflexology applications prior to the first anniversary of the start of the course. A case study is a reflexology session. Each session with a client counts as one case study, no matter how long the session takes. When apprenticing with a practicing Reflexologist each hour counts as 1 hour towards your self-regulated study requirements. Apprenticing may only make up 50 hours of your self-regulated study or practice. An additional 50 hours of documented self regulated reflexology sessions/applications or 30 case studies are required in addition to the 50 apprentice hours.
Do I need to document each of my case studies and/or hours spent participating in a study and am I required to submit the documentation associated with my self-regulated portion of the course?
Yes. Each case study must be documented and proof of hours apprenticed with a Reflexologist must be provided by the Reflexologist.
Is it a requirement that each of the case studies be completed on different individuals?
No. Cases studies may be completed on a combination of people, which are usually made up of friends, acquaintances and/or family members. The use of only 1 individual is mostly considered unacceptable as this does not expose you to different scenerios and/or applications. We strongly recommend that a minimum of 10 people be used to complete your case study requirements.
If a case study takes me 2 hours to complete, does it count as 2 case studies?
No. Each case study, even if it takes 2 or more hours to complete counts as 1 case study.