Reflexology is a gentle bodywork modality that encourages the body towards homeostasis in all physical and energetic systems. Primary benefits include deep relaxation, improved circulation, and an enhanced sense of well-being.

Introduction to Reflexology is a combined in-person and online course, part of The Barefoot Dragonfly’s 300-hour Professional Reflexology Certificate program. There are no prerequisites to this module and registration is open twice a year – in the Spring and in the Fall.

Spring 2022 Schedule

Enrollment is now open for the Spring 2022 semester. This unit consists of six online lessons and two practicum days in the studio starting on Wednesday, January 26th, 2022.

About the Lessons

There are eight lessons in this module:

1. Reflexology Origins & Theories – Wednesday, January 26th, 9-11am – In this lesson we’ll explore the history of Reflexology – from ancient civilizations through to modern practices – as well as the theories of how Reflexology works. Textbook pages are 8-25, workbook pages are 11-14 and exercises 2-4 on pages 20-22.
2. Forms of Reflexology, Cautions and Contraindications – Wednesday, February 2nd, 9-11am – This lesson explores the different forms of Reflexology as well as the cautions and contraindications to be aware of. Textbook pages are 25-30, workbook pages are 22-25.
3. Structure and Function of the Foot and Lower Leg – Wednesday, February 9th, 9am-1pm – A foundation in the anatomy and physiology of the foot and lower leg is an important foundational lesson in reflexology studies. This is an in-depth lesson with a live 4-hour Zoom. Textbook pages are 33-49, workbook pages are 27-37.
4. Mapping the Body Onto the Feet – Wednesday, February 16th, 9-11am – In addition to using zones and transverse guidelines, reflexologists use anatomical labels to identify reflex locations. This lesson will introduce you to using anatomical terms for a reflex’s location that will go on to help you write clear session notes for your case studies. Textbook pages are 49-55, workbook pages are 38-40.
5. Observing the Feet – Wednesday, February 23rd, 9-11am – Feet can give us a lot of cues about their owners! Textbook pages are 56-69, workbook page is 41.
6. Reflexology Techniques – Wednesday, March 2nd, 9-11am – The techniques used in reflexology sessions are specific and unique to our profession. This lesson addresses setting up for a session, proper body mechanics, and prepares you for our practicum lessons. Textbook pages are 69-82, workbook pages are 42-43.
7. Practicum Day One – Thursday, March 10th, 9am-5pm – first day of practicum study held at the studio in Northwest Austin.
8. Practicum Day Two – Friday, March 11th, 9am-5pm – second day of practicum study held at the studio in Northwest Austin.

Required Materials:

• Stories the Feet Can Tell Thru Reflexology / Stories the Feet Have Told Thru Reflexology by Eunice Ingham, ISBN: 0961180439
• The Complete Guide to Reflexology, Second Edition, Ruth Hull, 2021 – ISBN: 978-1913088118
• The Complete Guide to Reflexology Workbook, Second Edition, Ruth Hull, 2021 – ISBN: 978-1913088149
• Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology for Therapists and Healthcare Professionals, Second Edition, Ruth Hull, 2021 -ISBN: 978-1913088057
• Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology Workbook for Therapists and Healthcare Professionals, Second Edition, Ruth Hull, 2021 – ISBN: 978-1905367986
• Bring to in-person classes:
  • Note taking aids
  • Sack lunch (herbal tea and light snacks are provided)

Download the Introduction to Reflexology Syllabus (PDF)

About this Course

This course will provide an overview of the history and theories, the structure and function of the foot and lower leg, foot assessment, and techniques employed in this modality. Students will practice techniques on classmates during the in-person portion of the class.

Introduction to Reflexology: Module One is part of The Barefoot Dragonfly’s 300-hour Professional Reflexology Certificate program. Students complete theory lessons online and attend practicum lessons and clinical reviews in person at our Austin, Texas studio.

The 300 hour course meets the educational guidelines set forth by the Reflexology Association of America (RAA),and prepares students to sit for the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) national board exam.

Studying in a Pandemic

This will by my fifth semester teaching Reflexology in a pandemic and the key word I’ve found is flexibility. Many students travel from out of town to study with me, and some travel from out of state. Please note that travel restrictions have remained a theme throughout the pandemic. Practicum dates are subject to rescheduling to account for changes in viral spread, community, and the needs of students and educator. Join me via Zoom for a Reflexology Program Open House on Wednesday, December 15th at 9am.