Finding Clients
The majority of reflexologists are self employed. Even the spas that use reflexologists generally hire them under a contract basis, in which the practitioner works only when clients have scheduled an appointment. Because of this the successful reflexologist must spend time every week finding new clients. Advertising alone rarely brings in new clients. Promotional activities are vitally important to maintaining a good income, even after a client base has been established. Reflexologists give demonstrations at health fares, spas, health food stores and alternative medicine clinics. Finding potential clients is just a beginning, since many people are unfamiliar with reflexology and its benefits, so practitioners have to educate the public.
Treating Clients
Reflexology appointments can range from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the client's needs. Because of the way the nervous system in the body works, there are "reflex points" in the hands and feet that affect all areas of the body. Reflexologists know massage the hands and feet to activate those reflex points. Treatment can range from gentle massaging to deep pressure applied to trigger points to release tight muscles, and break up scar tissue and salt deposits. Sometimes oils and aromatherapy are incorporated in the treatment. The reflexology treatment only involves the hands and feet. Clients relax in a reclining chair or on a massage table while the practitioner works on them.
Running a Business
Because reflexologists are usually self employed or contract workers they have to spend a good deal of time managing their businesses. Most states charge tax for services such as reflexology. There are also self employment and income taxes that need to be paid quarterly or semi annually. Income and expenses need to be tracked. Most reflexologists maintain client files which must be updated with each visit. Supplies such as massage cream, aromatherapy oils and products the practitioner may provide for sale must be ordered. Office expenses need to be paid.
Self Care
Because reflexology is so demanding on a practitioner's hands, self care is important to maintaining a career. Massaging their own hands is part of the reflexologist's routine. Even so, the career life span for most reflexologists is less than 10 years.
Tags: hands feet, expenses need, important maintaining, need paid, practitioner works
