Did you know that specific areas of your hands, feet, and ears correspond to your body's systems and functions? By applying pressure to particular zones, reflexologists are able to reduce stress and promote natural healing.

According to the American Commission for Accreditation of Reflexology Education and Training (ACARET), reflexology is a manual technique applied to specific reflex points on the body (feet, hands, ears) within specific zones and microcosms of the body for psychological and physiological normalization of the total body. No tools are used in reflexology.

To become a reflexologist, you'll need to get hands-on training at reflexology schools.

Accredited Reflexology Education
ACARET is the nonprofit accreditation organization responsible for setting education standards for the reflexology profession in the U.S. Seeking a uniform, professional approach to the business, science, quality, service, and art of reflexology, ACARET offers voluntary accreditation for reflexology curricula and individual reflexology educators. Click here to access a state-by-state list of ACARET Accredited Educators (AAEd). ACARET accreditation is a voluntary, nongovernmental peer review process by and for the reflexology education community.

ACARET does not provide a manual to develop education programs, but it is in the process of establishing a standardized minimum curriculum for reflexology education and minimum hours for certification. Once a uniform core curriculum is adopted, educators may then submit their reflexology certification programs for accreditation. ACARET will not accredit reflexology schools, but it will accredit reflexology programs that meet curriculum standards. Click here for the American Reflexology Certification Board's (ARCB) public service directory of reflexology schools and educators that offer introductory as well as advanced reflexology programs.

You may also find reflexology courses at university or community college extension programs, adult education centers, and local park and recreation departments. In addition, many massage schools incorporate reflexology instruction into their massage therapy programs.

Reflexology Courses
Before you start practicing reflexology, it's a good idea to pursue ARCB certification. In order to be eligible for the three-part national certification exam, you'll need to complete a hands-on reflexology program. The ARCB accepts diplomas and certificates from reflexology programs that consist of a minimum of 110 education hours. Reflexology education should include 55 hours of anatomy and physiology, 40 hours of reflexology history and theory, 10 hours of supervised practicum, and 5 hours of business ethics and standards.

Reflexology courses are designed to teach techniques for reducing stress and promoting healing by using thumb, finger, and hand methods. General complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) coursework may include chakra balancing; chart competency; foot mapping; massage therapy; meridians, microcosms, and zone; reflex points and mechanisms; relaxation techniques; and stress management. Reflexology schools also support holistic instruction with courses in business and communication skills.

When you complete a reflexology program and gain some practical, real-world experience, you may test to become an ARCB Board Certified Reflexologist. To maintain certification, you must complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years.

Become a Reflexologist
Currently, there are no national licensing requirements for reflexologists; laws vary from state to state. Only two states - North Dakota and Tennessee - have specific reflexology laws. Reflexology is included in the cosmetology laws in Missouri and Louisiana. Thirty-nine other states have massage laws, 24 of which exempt reflexology from those laws. Visit the Reflexology Association of America to find out your state's licensing requirements.

If you believe that feet, hands, and ears are the mirror of the body, begin your healing career by researching reflexology schools today.