As a National Board Certified Reflexologist and Reiki Master, you might be surprised to learn that these two practices tie for fourth on my personal wellness priority list, rather than ranking at number one. I use both daily for self-care, but there are three other activities that come first, in part because of the overwhelming evidence regarding their importance for both short and long-term physical and mental health outcomes.
Read MoreWhen you visit me for a first reflexology session, I measure your feet and take ink prints to show how and where you are putting pressure on specific parts of your feet. The measurements help to make sure you are wearing the right size shoe and the ink prints provide a clear visual and help create awareness about posture and movement. This initial information helps to guide the session plan and, if you are wearing ill-fitting shoes, it provides another step you can take to improve your foot health and overall sense of well-being. These are my three favorite sites with resources to help you find healthier shoes.
Read MoreMany new clients arrive at a reflexology session not knowing what to expect. Especially if you have never experienced any form of bodywork, you may have lots of questions. Always feel free to ask what is on your mind so that you can be comfortable and fully relax during the session. To get you started, here are five things that you should know prior to your appointment.
Read MoreThis past Saturday, June 26, I was delighted to see reflexology colleagues’ familiar, friendly faces via Zoom during an online gathering of World Reflexology Foundation volunteers. I met many of these talented, like-minded reflexologists in California in 2018, when I first joined the World Reflexology Foundation and was trained to offer its self-help and family-help reflexology workshops. During the shutdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic over the last 15 months, the Foundation has had to adapt to not being able to offer in-person workshops. Workshops shifted to virtual, and while this will continue, I am looking forward to offering World Reflexology Foundation Self-help Workshops again here in my home state of Vermont as well as finding other creative ways to make the benefits of reflexology available and affordable for as many people as possible.
Read MoreThroughout the course of the pandemic, clients have asked what I think about vaccines and if I am planning to get vaccinated against COVID-19. (Spoiler alert, yes. I received my first dose already and will receive the second dose soon.) As a rule, I tend to steer clear of politics in my reflexology practice, but have been happy to discuss vaccines. Despite the politicization of vaccines in recent years (even prior to the COVID-19 vaccine rollout), vaccines are not inherently political. They are life-saving medical interventions backed by rigorous, peer-reviewed scientific research.
Read MoreThis year, April 1st was not just April Fool’s Day, it was also the day that S.220 (Act 178) went into effect, creating oversight of the massage and bodywork industry through Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation. As a client, you are likely to see no difference in how your session is conducted, as Act 178 does not specify particular credentials required of touch professionals. One of the main changes is that all bodyworkers and touch professionals are required to register with the Office of Professional Regulation.
Read MoreMarch is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of women worldwide. Back in 2019, I shared some thoughts about clients’ wisdom during this time of recognizing women. This year, I am reflecting on one particular pioneering woman in the field of reflexology.
Read MoreIf ever there was a year that needed a second opportunity for a “New Year,” this is it. At the beginning of January, I shared with you my intentions for well-being, rest, and playfulness. So far, so good, but February offers us another opportunity to revisit any 2021 intentions and put more focus and energy into realizing them.
Read MoreIt is a new year and I could not be more excited for a fresh start. I know, I know, we are still in the midst of a pandemic and widespread social and political unrest, and January 1st is an arbitrary date, but it still feels like an opportunity for hope. Any excuse for levity is warranted right now, so let’s welcome 2021!
Read MoreToday is Indigenous People’s Day and I have been reflecting on the history of this day, the land I call home, and how healing traditions are shared and changed over time. My home, and the reflexology office where Mpath Well-being is located is in the homeland of the Abenaki people (now commonly known by the colonial name of Richmond, Vermont, USA). It has been the homeland of the Abenaki people for thousands of years, and continues to be so today.
Read MoreIt is hard to believe that it is already September, but the crisper night air and leaves starting to change color here in Vermont confirm that fall is arriving. As a reflexologist, this is one of the most exciting times of the year because it is an opportunity to share more information with everyone about the benefits of reflexology during World Reflexology Week.
Reflexology points are located throughout the body, but primarily on the feet, hands, and ears. While reflexology is a very safe technique, there are a few instances when you should not work on a reflex directly. Even when using gentle self-care techniques, never work over broken skin, recent injuries, bruising, or certain skin conditions. In these cases, you can still benefit from reflexology by using what are called helper areas (provided there are no other reasons why you should not be using reflexology).
Read MoreDo you remember running around barefoot in the grass as a child? Do you still do that? Summer is officially here and it is time to stretch out those toes that may have been hibernating in winter boots until recently.
Read MoreSpring and summer is a delightful time to enjoy the outdoors, but in the Northeast it is also prime time for pollen allergies. Many people have experienced allergy symptoms at some point (sneezing, congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, etc.). While not minimizing the suffering of those dealing with allergies, sometimes it can be helpful to reframe these symptoms, and think about what our bodies are telling us, then be able to take a clear path forward.
Read MoreHave you ever seen a toddler sucking her thumb while using the other hand to pull on an earlobe in an effort to self-soothe? This is a fascinating example of how our everyday, often unconscious, postures and movements stimulate reflexology points. In the case of the toddler, pressure is being applied to head and brain reflexes in the thumb and earlobe. Some of the most common forms of fidgeting such as drumming your fingers, jiggling your legs up and down, shifting your weight from side to side, or tugging at your ears are also focused on central nervous system reflexes.
Read MoreToday, I will admit, it is a bit harder than normal to start writing. We have all seen the headlines, and have felt the uncertainty of what the next few weeks and months will bring. All that said, here are a few things I have been keeping in mind that have been offering some degree of comfort.
Read MoreLove it or hate it, winter is officially here. With the passing of the solstice a few weeks ago, the daylight hours are gradually lengthening, but snowy weather in the North is just getting started. Whether you are enjoying outdoor sports, spending time shoveling snow, or doing your best to hibernate until spring, read on for a few tips for staying warm this season.
Read MoreYour doctor has diagnosed you with plantar fasciitis. What are your next steps? Here are some common options your doctor is likely to discuss with you, and some pros and cons of each, including reflexology.
Read MoreIn the last blog (Plantar fasciitis- an overview), we covered the basics of plantar fasciitis. Now, let’s take a close look at some of the causes, as this understanding will help contribute to prevention, recovery, and overall foot and whole body health.
Read MoreHere in Vermont, it is truly starting to feel like spring. Buds are appearing on the trees, the first hints of green are peeking out of the garden soil, and birds are winging their way northward in anticipation of summer. For many of us, springtime brings a shift in outdoor activities as we swap out snowshoes for running shoes and hiking boots, and gear up for biking as the skis are put away for the season. These opportunities for fun and adventure can sometimes lead to injury and pain, which can limit enjoyment in the outdoors and even make basic tasks difficult or impossible.
One of the most common complaints that prompts clients to schedule a reflexology session is plantar fasciitis. In this three-part blog series, let’s take a look at what plantar fasciitis is, common causes, and options for prevention and getting back on your feet when dealing with plantar fasciitis.
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