by Karen Ball I am often asked how I got “into reflexology”. I wish I could say that my career choice was the result of a well-thought-out trajectory or a middle of-the-night dream-induced epiphany – but – that would be lying. I actually just wandered into it. At the time (1983), I was thinking that I would like to open a health food store in Toronto and had taken a job working in one to see if I really wanted to do that. It didn’t take me long to realize that I didn’t want to be in retail; however, I learned a lot during the months I stayed, both from my knowledgeable supervisor and the books that I was allowed to take home to read. One day, one of my regular customers came into the store and told me that the Reflexology Association of Canada was about to start up their next certification training and that he thought I should enroll. I thought, “Why not?” I was consumed by an interest in anything that had anything to do with what I called the human potential movement, and was eager to expose myself to as much as I could. I was already studying and/or practicing nutrition, herbology, meditation, yoga, Bach Flower remedies – so, reflexology – why not? I hadn’t been able to make heads or tails out of the reflexology books that I had borrowed, so maybe a live class would teach me something. Fast-forward to 1989, now living in Florida, my state massage therapy license in hand; one of my FSM massage teachers informs me of a chiropractor in town looking to add a massage therapist to his team. I had never even considered working for a chiropractor, but once again, thought, “Why not?” I worked with this man for four years, offering a combination of reflexology and “spot” massage therapy to patients prior to their chiropractic adjustments. Such a fabulous learning experience for me – and for the doctor! At first hesitant about the efficacy of reflexology in injury cases, he was won over by the added benefits his clients received from prefacing their massage with foot reflexology (and how compliant they became in keeping their appointments). Looking back on how my careers in Toronto and Florida started, what I see in common was that I checked out everything, and then pursued what I thought would fulfill me. Offering bodywork that brought so much relief and pleasure to others harmonized with a core desire of mine to make a difference in the world. Over the years, I have often reverted to that method of decision-making – and have never regretted it. I continue to make choices that support my desire to live a happy and intentional life. If you are just starting down your career path, or are a veteran looking to revitalize your business, then I invite you to check out reflexology. I feel so much joy each time clients express surprise about how reflexology provides relief for their persistent imbalances, in addition to their deep sense of relaxation and pain-free state following a session. Maybe you’ll find that you resonate with offering the gift of reflexology also. Karen will be offering her foundational 2-day workshop in foot Reflexology at FSM on July 14 and 15. Please visit this link for details and to register.
