Reflexology is an ancient art practiced by early Egyptians and still today, is an excellent bodywork therapy for stimulating the body’s natural healing capabilities. It is a science and philosophy founded on the basis that certain areas of the feet, hands and ears are comprised of “zones” and reflex points. These reflex points correspond to all glands, organs, and other bodily systems.

Reflexology is a bodywork technique whereby pressure is applied to these specific reflex zones. Using thumb, finger and hand methods, reflexology encourages physiological healing and restoration in the body. This, in turn, restores natural balance and results in overall stress reduction. Though it is not intended to cure diseases, reflexology is valuable in locating high stress or tension areas in the body; and can help alleviate many common health conditions like fibromyalgia, and other musculoskeletal problems. Since three-quarters of all health problems are somehow related to stress, reflexology could prove invaluable in this day and age.

Below, you’ll find part two of the cool spa careers I’ve been exploring. Check each of them out and see what they’re about!

Reiki – this natural healing technique uses energy to create a more positive and balanced lifestyle, free of stress. Using a laying on of hands, Reiki promotes relaxation of the body, mind, and spirit. There are a variety of levels of training so getting certified may take some time, but will definitely be worth it, as Reiki is on the rise.

Rubenfeld Synergy Method – to cleanse its clients of negative energies, the Rubenfeld Synergy Method uses gentle touch massage and more to promote healthy living. You may become certified in this holistic practice or specialize in it within a broader field of natural healing.

Trager Approach – for an improved lifestyle in both the physical and emotional sense, the Trager Approach is a method in which a practitioner works with a client. It is not formally recognized in the medical community, but it is possible to earn certification within a six-month time period form the United States Trager Association.

Tui Na – to balance the body and achieve natural chi, this Chinese technique uses a variety of massages to manipulate the joints in a healthy manner. Tui na generally can be learned at massage schools, resulting in certification.

Zero Balancing – through massage, zero balancing connects the body’s energy fields and brings them to harmony. Certification is possible for those interested in zero balancing, however you must be a licensed health care professional in order to practice this massage technique on clients.

-Amanda Fornecker

I may talk a lot about beauty careers, but the spa and wellness industries are certainly worth a peek as well. There are so many careers you may not even have thought of in the spa and wellness industries. Take a look below at some of the ones I think are most unique and see what they’re all about. It may be worth it to research a corresponding school…

Breema – combining deep tissue and Thai massage, Breema studies teach students proper posing techniques and how to work with clients who have different body types. In the end, you can earn your Breema certification to work in this type of massage therapy.

Doula – working with women through labor, birth, and postpartum is at the heart of those who have chosen to be a doula as their career. In midwifery school, doulas learn to provide guidance and support to women and become certified as a doula (sometimes before becoming a midwife).

Iridology – the study of the iris is quite an interesting topic that can lead to certification. In fact, some individuals intending to get into naturopathy first study iridology, where they learn about how the iris can be a big indicator into a person’s health.

Kinesiology – do you know how physical activity affects the body? Kinesiologists do by studying muscles and their movements. Through diploma programs and even doctoral programs, you can learn a lot more about kinesiology.

Lomi Lomi – a massage technique that finds its roots in Hawaii is called Lomi Lomi. This type of massage involves seeking love and harmony and eventually a massage therapy degree with a specialty in Lomi Lomi.

Look out for some more interesting techniques within the spa and wellness industries. Whether you are seeking services just right for you or want to pursue a career, we’ve got the latest in spa and wellness news.

-Amanda Fornecker

Yoga Schools teach both instructors and students in Yoga. Generally, yoga schools are confined to small-school settings that meet weekly to allow the best opportunity toward lasting knowledge. Yoga schools teach phenomenal and life-altering practice of yoga which dates back to over 5000 years.

From ancient times to modern day civilization, yoga schools introduce basic fundamentals of Ayurveda (Ayurveda comes from the Sanskrit words ayur, which means life, and veda, which means knowledge.) The goal of yoga school is to provide tools that encourage attunement to your true Self, accessibility to your inner wisdom and supports your progression of personal growth and spiritual awareness.

Curriculum in yoga schools is based on teachings of whole unity – the belief that our Universe is “one family.” Thus, the integration of body, mind and spirit makes individuals more aware of their bodies as a whole. By practicing postures, breathing exercises and meditations, a normal yoga session reduces stress, controls weight, reduces depression, heightens awareness, improves circulation, improves self-confidence and self-esteem, increases energy & flexibility, improves the immune system, strengthens and tones body, constructs stamina, boosts balance and coordination and dramatically achieves a sense of overall well-being and peace.

For more info, click into: Yoga School: No Posers Need Apply