Reflexology is the idea that certain points on the hands, feet, and sometimes ears correspond to specific systems in the body and by putting pressure on these points, a reflexologist can attain beneficial effects for the client. Reflexology has a history that goes back to ancient times in China, Japan, and Egypt. Reflexology has gained acceptance throughout the years as a legitimate form of alternative health care. While reflexology is often taught in massage therapy schools, it is usually considered to be a separate modality from massage. Indeed, reflexology is often used in place of massage for those clients who for whatever reason cannot receive a massage.

To practice reflexology, you can either take courses from a massage therapy school or you can attend classes with accredited reflexology educators. Courses in reflexology will likely include reflexology theory, anatomy, and physiology as well as other holistic healing approaches such as chakra balancing, stress management, and relaxation techniques. After you have attended a hands-on program with a minimum of 110 hours of training, you can take the examination to receive national certification through the American Reflexology Certification Board. While certification is not required to work as a reflexologist, it will certainly bring respect to your work in the field and may open up employment opportunities.

Reflexologists may find work at places such as alternative healthcare clinics, wellness centers, hospices, and assisted living centers. Reflexologists can also enjoy the flexibility of self-employement with ease. In fact, many reflexology programs include classes in business practices, marketing, and ethics to help the new reflexologist get started with their own business. Job prospects for reflexologists are very good with high growth rates in both alternative healing methods and the health care field in general. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects these two fields to continue with faster-than-average growth through 2016.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	U.S. Career Institute - At the U.S. Career Institute, students will be taught alternative health treatments to assist people in feeling better. With a number of organizations hiring in various positions, don't pass up this opportunity to go back to school and start a great career.
	Boca Beauty Academy of Massage - If you're interested in becoming a massage therapist, Boca Beauty Academy of Massage offers a fantastic program for students interested in this growing industry.
Cincinnati Cleveland	Center for Massage & Natural Health - The Center for Massage & Natural Health assists students in reaching their goal of becoming a massage therapist affordably and conveniently.
Boston Tampa Scottsdale	Cortiva Institute for Massage - Cortiva Institute for Massage prepares aspiring massage therapists with a rigorous program in the field of massage therapy. With locations available across the country, students can get prepared quickly.