FootPrints_Dec_06_Vol_10_No4 5670KB Aug 31 2015 01:48
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FootPrints_Dec_06_Vol_10_No4 5670KB Aug 31 2015 01:48
The Reflexology Association of Australia The Reflexology Association of Australia is an independent, non-profit organisation and is not affiliated with any educational institution. It is managed by a national Board of Directors, and has branch committees in each state. All positions are honorary. VOLUME 10 NO 4 DECEMBER 2006 The Reflexology Association of Australia has been in existence since 1989, when it was first incorporated in Victoria and subsequently in all other states. As a national body, the Reflexology Association of Australia Limited was registered in July 2002 to further the aims and objectives of the Association, namely: ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ To develop and promote an awareness and understanding of reflexology within the Australian community To represent the interests of the reflexology profession within the public and political arena To establish and maintain uniformity and high standards of training within Australia To maintain a high level of professional practice To serve and protect the needs of all members within the national structure To act as a central information and resource body for all members To act as an advisory body within the jurisdiction of the national body To promote co-operation with international reflexology bodies To establish and maintain relevant national databases of practitioners To provide ongoing professional development for members and a supportive network for reflexologists To promote research and development which support reflexology The national magazine ‘FootPrints’ is published quarterly. It keeps members informed about developments in the field of reflexology both nationally and internationally, and provides a platform for their news and views. The Reflexology Association of Australia is committed to the belief that reflexology can be of great benefit to the health of all Australians. It publishes a referral register on its website (www.reflexology.org.au) and has a referral phone service (0500 502 250) for members of the public who wish to consult a qualified practitioner. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 Letter from the Board Association Contact Details Summary of October Board Meeting What has the Board Been Up To? Letter to RAA Members Membership Matters National Conference Reiki and Being Case Study—Risk Factors for Heart Disease 12 14 15 18 21 22 23 24 Little Feet @ 30 Thousand Feet RAA Conference Reflexion State Matters Pregnancy Oedema, Emotions and Reflexology Continuing Professional Training—Inception and History 2007 CPT Education Product Guide FootPrints Contacts, Guidelines & Deadlines Reflexology Association of Australia FOOTPRINTS JOURNAL ISSN 1039 – 2092 Published by the Reflexology Association of Australia, Limited Editorial Team Contacts Guidelines for Articles Contributions of articles, case studies, book reviews, personal experiences and letters to the editor are welcome. The following guidelines will be helpful if you are planning an article, as they will make the editing and publishing process easier for all: 1. Articles can be chatty and informal, or more formal and educational. They must however be accurate, well researched and fully referenced (if applicable). 2. Articles that have not been booked by the editor for a specific issue will appear in an issue decided by the editors, as space and topic allow. To appear in a specific issue an article must be submitted for consideration up to 3 months in advance of the issue date. 3. Articles may be sent by email or on a floppy disc (IBM compatible in Text File or Word for Windows File) to the editor (see address above). Faxed articles are not acceptable as they do not scan well. Pictures can be sent as TIF files or JPG files. Please do NOT send PDF files. 4. If an article has been previously published, written permission from the author/other publication will be required. The editors must be informed if an article is currently under consideration by another publication. 5. Any graphics, diagrams, graphs and photographs that are not the work of the author must be accompanied by written permission by the original author for their use in FootPrints. 6. The editors reserve the right to make alterations to, or reject an article for publication. Where substantial changes have to be made, the editors will show the final copy to the author, time permitting. 7. Advertorials will not be accepted. Editor/Desktop Publishing Robyn Coslovich 2 Prince Crescent Seaford Vic 3198 Phone: (03) 9776 4992 Mobile: 0413 411 408 Email: [email protected] Assistant Editor Jan Cullen Phone: (02) 9296 3073 Mobile: 0417 283 203 Email: [email protected] Advertising Co-ordinator Judee Hawkins Mobile: 0412 187 238 Email: [email protected] Mailout Kerrie Baldock 1 Chaleyer Street, Rose Bay, NSW 2029 Phone: (02) 9371 4380 Please mail booked inserts to this address Advertising Policy ♦ As only a limited number of ADVERTISING PRICE INCREASE Inside front and Inside back covers – Enquiries to Judee Hawkins It has regrettably become necessary to increase the advertising charges in Footprints as follows: Display advertisements Full page 26 cm deep x 18 cm wide Half page 13 cm deep x 18 cm wide Quarter page 13 cm deep x 8.5 cm wide Eighth page 6.5 cm deep x 8.5 cm wide ♦ Inserts Current Price $200 per issue $110 per issue $ 60 per issue $ 40 per issue Effective 1.07.07 $250 per issue $137 per issue $ 75 per issue $ 50 per issue ♦ ♦ The new charges will take effect from and including the September 2007 issue. All rates include GST Members of the Reflexology Association of Australia receive a 10% discount on the above rates only. ♦ ♦ Per A4 sheet: to all States $200 - New Price Effective 1.07.07 - $250 to an individual State $0.50 per copy - New Price Effective 1.07.07 - $0.63 FootPrints is distributed to approximately 1,100 members Australia-wide All Enquiries Contact Advertising Co-ordinator: Judee Hawkins Email: [email protected] or Mobile: 0412 187 238. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ advertisements and inserts can be accepted it is advisable to book early. All advertisements must be booked well in advance with the Advertising Co-ordinator, Judee Hawkins, email [email protected] or Mobile: 0412 187 238. Print copy should be sent to the Advertising Co-ordinator (details above). Display advertisements must be submitted by the copy deadline (see below) . FootPrints is distributed at the end of the month of issue, i.e. March, June, September and December. All advertising must be paid for at the time of booking. All inserts must be booked with the Advertising Co-ordinator, and sent to Kerrie Baldock at 1 Chaleyer Street, Rose Bay, NSW, 2029, for inclusion in the journal 24 LETTER FROM THE BOARD Hi Everyone, Wow, what a conference we have just put on in Adelaide!!!!!! It was educational, inspiring, very well organized, relaxed and fun. South Australia only has a very small membership base, but you would never have believed it given the show they put on for us. It is almost sacrilege to pick out individuals, but a special mention has to go to Susan Jean Ramsey for guiding the conference ship safely into port and SA Chairperson Marg Rowett who, apart from her other duties, spent hours the day before the conference baking feet shaped biscuits as prizes. But thanks and appreciation has to go to every single member of the South Australian committee who worked tirelessly for many months preparing for the event and worked even harder over the weekend in their ‘hot pink’ t-shirts - and their constant smiles. Nothing was ever too much trouble and if things weren’t always going to plan behind the scenes, there was never hint of it shown. Well done everyone, you certainly did our Association proud!!!! Sometimes people think that conferences, learning or professionalism should be staid, strict and steady, but from my experience the more fun people have, the more relaxed they are and the easier the information sinks in. As for my own style, well those who have met me can see that leadership and professionalism does not have to be dry and quiet, things still get done with humour, (a bit of cheek – no one mention the balloons -) and enthusiasm as you will shortly read. At the AGM I read a list of the changes and developments we have undergone as an Association over the past 12 months and have included a summary in this edition of FootPrints. Even I was surprised at how much we have achieved and none of it, like our conference, would have been possible if not for our volunteers. A full copy of the minutes of the AGM and all reports will shortly be available on the website for members to download as part of our commitment to keeping everyone fully informed. I invite you to visit the site and print off your own copy. June Issue: May 1 December Issue: November 1 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Board of Directors 2006-2007 President & Public Relations Emma Gierschick (VIC) 03 9774 3776 [email protected] Vice President & CPT Libby Stark (QLD) 07 3376 2240 [email protected] Secretary & Footprints Advertising Judee Hawkins (NSW) 02 9836 0078 [email protected] Treasurer Jennifer Hill (VIC) 03 9842 9495 [email protected] Research Coordinator and Education Sara Higgins (QLD) 07 3901 6621 [email protected] Website James Flaxman (SA) 08 8333 0147 [email protected] At the AGM, a launch of all the new merchandise now available was given and judging by reported sales from Jenn Cooper, many members took advantage of the conference discounts. James Flaxman performed a demonstration of our website showing what you can find on it. We also had a presentation on the Health Training package. All the proposed constitutional changes were passed and Marion Bond (Vic), Sharon Stathis (Qld) and Heather Edwards (Qld) were all granted life membership to our Association for their unyielding hard work over many years. Publicity & Promotions Kerrie Baldock (NSW) 02) 9371 4380 [email protected] Unfortunately, only Heather was able to be present on the day to receive her certificate, as Sharon had other commitments and Marion had a fall in Adelaide the day before the conference, badly breaking her arm. She ended up in hospital preparing for surgery. I went to visit her and we arranged for everyone at the conference to sign a get well soon card. Our thoughts are with you Marion for a speedy recovery. FNTT Anne Young (WA) 0400 811 010 [email protected] The next AGM will be held in Cairns September 2007 just prior to the ICR conference, while our next Association conference will be held in Sydney in 2008. The conferences just seem to get better and better each time, so I am already looking forward to seeing what NSW will come up with. As promised, this edition will contain useful information for you regarding the history of CPT, an overview of the recent Board meeting and lots of other useful tit bits, which I am sure you will all find interesting. But we would be really interested to hear what you would like to see more of, what you think of FootPrints, what you think of the way the Association is moving – give us some feedback. We are definitely open to your thoughts and suggestions. Anyway, on that note I’d better dash. I fly to the UK in the morning to celebrate my father’s 70th birthday and haven’t fully unpacked from Adelaide yet!!!! Better dig out my hot water bottle and scarf!!!!- COPY DEADLINES March Issue: February 1 September Issue: August 1 Reflexology Association of Australia Director Sarah Blain (TAS) 0427 261 710 [email protected] December 2006. All Rights Reserved. The opinions expressed in this journal are of each author and not necessarily endorsed by the Reflexology Association of Australia. Advertisements are solely for the information of readers and are not endorsed by the Reflexology Association of Australia. On behalf of the Board, and our administration, I wish you all a fantastic Festive period, This Issue: and hope your New Year exceeds all your expectations. Front cover illustration courtesy Sue Thanks, Emma Gierschick Ehinger. FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 1 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia REFLEXOLOGY ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA LIMITED The Reflexology Association of Australia Limited was incorporated in 2002 as a company limited by guarantee (ACN: 101 412 319) STATE BRANCHES CONTACT HOTLINES Membership Administrator Jenn Cooper PO Box 253 Wynnum Central, QLD 4178 Phone: 07 3396 9001 Fax: 07 3393 5468 All membership enquiries and applications; changes of address Email: [email protected] NSW Address: PO Box 366, Cammeray, 2062 Melanie Parsons 02 9899 4116 Carmen Luz Guerin 02 9982 2821 [email protected] QLD Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 3092, Norman Park, 4170 Susan Moore 07 3366 1603 Ian Gilbert 07 3843 1787 [email protected] SA Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 457, Kensington Park, 5068 Margaret Rowett 08 8753 4093 Harriot Sneyd 08 8373 2770 [email protected] TAS Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 3041 LDC Launceston 7250 Helen Clarke 03 6424 8111 Mary Farr 03 63317619 [email protected] VIC Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 5272, Mordialoc, 3195 Rachael Fabbro 03 9889 0453 Jennifer Hill 03 9842 9495 [email protected] WA Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 1032, Leederville, 6901 Valerie Dewar 08 6293 1424 Lee Phillips 08 9335 7682 [email protected] Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: Office Hours Mon, Tue, Thu and Fri — 9am - 1pm General Enquiries and Advice CPT Information Contact the representative in your state Practitioner Register Phone: 0500 502 250 Research Librarian Pat McLean Phone: 07 3344 2123 EDITOR’S CORNER Another year draws quickly to an end and its time to reflect on the year that was. 2006 saw a new editorial team come together and it has been a pleasure to work with such a professional team. Great job everyone!! To all the reflexologists who have made contributions to your journal, thank you. It is your time and effort to sit down and write these articles that helps our editoral team to present such a professional and quality journal. So anyone who feels the urge to put pen to paper, sit down and do so and we will publish it with pride. Special thanks to Emma whose confidence in me to perform the Editor role has meant a great deal. Thanks also to my team for their support and hard work. Have a safe and Merry Christmas. May the New Year be a prosperous one for all of us. Enjoy this special time with family, friends and those closest to you. See everyone in 2007. Oops - Our Sincere Apologies The team at FootPrints would like to apologise to Russell McAllister for comments made in the September edition in the “Report from the New FootPrints Team”. It was Russell who was the founding editor of FootPrints which commenced production in 1991. He resigned in 1996 at which time Sue Ehinger and Graeme Murray took over the reins. 2 ARE YOU A STUDENT? FootPrints is looking for students undertaking training to submit articles for the “Still in Training” Section. We want to hear from YOU! Send your articles to Jan Cullen [email protected] FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 23 Reflexology Association of Australia SUMMARY OF OCTOBER BOARD MEETING 2007 CPT EDUCATION By Anne Young Members wishing to submit articles for publication of case studies, articles or reviews for State newsletters, FootPrints or other professional journals specifically related to Reflexology are encouraged to share your knowledge and experience with our members. The content required is: articles 950 words, book reviews 500 words. Libby Stark – CPT Co-ordinator Presenter Training Title Location Jan 4 & 5 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Basic Level Brisbane Jan 6 & 7 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology - Advanced Level Brisbane Jan 8 & 9 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Part 3 Brisbane Jan 11& 12 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Basic Level Sydney Jan 13& 14 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Advanced Level Sydney Sept 22 - 23 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Part 3 Sydney REFLEXOLOGY RECLINER CHAIRS La fuma recliner chairs for Reflexology $250 Lightweight, 8 kg - available 3 different designs 125 kg recommended max weight . Easy to fold and carry Padded seat and headrest Original chair, made in France for over 50 years. $145 plus postage to anywhere in Australia (as above) (approx. $15 NSW Approx.$30 SA; VIC &QLD Approx.$60 WA; NT ) New Coast Recliner Chairs available in blue and green, Padded, canvas material, sturdy, 9kg, and tested for 160 kg weigh Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________ LA FUMA RECLINER - AZTEC $250 PLUS POST ______$250 or COAST RECLINER BLUE or GREEN - $145 PLUS POST _____$145 Post approx $15 in NSW; $30 in Vic Qld, SA; $60 WA & NT and $70 NZ (unless bulk of min 10) Carry bags $85 Carry bag with wheels $105 Postage: $10 Total: Finance Neither the Treasurer’s report nor the Auditor’s report were accepted by the Board at the meeting . It was believed that there were errors in the allocation of cost centres which needed to be corrected before it represented an accurate reflection of the day to day activities of the Association. After review and adjustment the Auditor’s report has since been passed by circulating resolution. The Finance Committee has been expanded to include the Treasurer, the Company Secretary and one other Director. This is currently Jennifer Hill, Cherel Sue Waters and Anne Young. Constitution A Review Committee to examine the Constitution has been formed. A thorough examination of the current Constitution and by-laws is to be undertaken. The Committee consists of Cherel Sue Waters, Company Secretary and Anne Young, Director (WA). Cherel Sue Waters was closely involved in the formulation of the original Constitution. Following the Board meeting, all the proposed changes to the Constitution were carried by the members at the Annual General Meeting by majority vote. Web Site • State newsletters are now available to all members online. • Locum listing for vacancies and work wanted is now available. • Members can add a link to their own web pages if desired. CPT Considerable work has gone into this area to make CPT requirements more clear to members. A document titled ‘Understanding your CPT Education’ will be posted on the web site and published in FootPrints. Health Training Package The CS&H Industry Skills Council has announced that the Health Training Package is due for roll out in March 2007. The Association will still be accepting graduates from existing schools under the current arrangements. FNTT The Board has decided to actively pursue health fund rebates for Reflexology through the auspices of the FNTT. February - April 2007 plus postage Name: __________________________________________________________ Phone:__________________________________ Appointment of Victorian Director Jennifer Hill was accepted as a second director from Victoria to replace Jo Impey who has resigned. Jennifer has been given the portfolio of Treasurer. REPORTS: CPT points earned – 3 per article/limit 10 points. Date Reflexology Association of Australia TOTAL $_________ $ _ _____ Continuing Education Seminars Energy Protection for Everyone Have you ever felt exhausted after a working day or experienced others' aches, pains and emotions? Have you ever helped a client and they have left feeling fantastic but you are weighed down and tired? In this practical workshop, learn how to energetically clear and protect yourself so you don’t become drained. Techniques for space clearing will also be discussed. Friday 2 February 9.30am - 4.30pm Jacqui Bushell $170 Creative Problem Solving for Health Practitioners An exciting one day workshop to empower health care practitioners to creatively solve client problems, in a collaborative way that promotes an environment of health and wellbeing. Topics include how to tap into your creative mind and turning practitioner ideas into client action. Saturday 21 April 9.30am - 4.30pm Barry Smith $155 Dynamic Communication Skills for Health Care Practitioners An empowering one day workshop to give health care practitioners the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate, influence and develop collaborative relationships with clients. Learn the vital skills of networking and memory enhancement to aid better communication. Sunday 22 April 9.30am - 4.30pm Barry Smith $155 Reflexology & Palliative Care This new module teaches students how to create treatment plans for clients in palliative care to ensure a more holistic approach and enhance the outcome of each reflexology session. Saturday 3 February 9.30am - 4.30pm Karel Smith $155 Download the 2007 program from www.naturecare.com.au Pay by cheque or money order (addressed to Brenda SARNO) Learning for life Visa: _ _ _ _ _________________________ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Expiry Date_ _ _/_ __ CR.CARD WILL BE DEPOSITED IN THE ACCOUNT OF “GOLDCRAFT” Name on Bankcard: _______________________Signature: _____________________________ Post to: BRENDA SARNO, Reflexologist, 2 Boonamin Road, PORT MACQUARIE 2444 AUST. TEL/FAX: ( 02) 65 82 1080. EMAIL: [email protected] 22 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 | FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 | 3 Reflexology Association of Australia WHAT HAS THE BOARD BEEN UP TO? By Emma Gierschick, President Someone recently asked one of the directors – What do you do? So here is an overview of some of the things we have developed, introduced or are currently working on as a board since the AGM in 2005. Large Projects • We have completed the National health training package for Reflexology. • We have now got national insurance policy covering all members when they are representing the Association at RAA events. • We have joined the FNTT and will be pushing them to renew the lobbying of health funds on our behalf. Sara Higgins has also begun contacting the health funds again. • We have formed a new finance committee to review the current coding system. Membership Matters • We have invested heavily back into our Association. • We have a growth in membership numbers. • We are commencing exit interviews with members who haven’t renewed to find out why and to assist them as appropriate. • We will be acknowledging all life members and recipients of outstanding achievement awards by publishing their names in each FootPrints journal and on the website. • We have created an advice line for members to access should they need to discuss a treatment protocol with someone a little more experienced. • We are looking to develop our mentoring programme to help new members. • We have improved communication to members with minutes of meetings being more accessible and summaries of committee or general meetings being printed in each branch newsletter. Regional Members • We are looking at ways of providing more support for regional members and groups – and are definitely open to any suggestions. • We have started a billeting register to provide a bed for members travelling from regional areas to the city for training – we need more names of people willing to provide beds. • We are looking to tape speakers at meetings for members to borrow and listen to. FootPrints • We have a new FootPrints team. • We have increased advertising in the journal with a goal aim of making it pay for itself. • We have put old copies of FootPrints on the Web site. • We are adding the first couple of paragraphs of 4 articles of the latest edition on the website as a precursor to the mail out to generate interest. • We are listing the contents of all previous journals on the website so members can borrow old copies from their branch library if they don’t have a copy. • We are looking at moving towards colour covers. Merchandise • We have centralized our merchandise to Brisbane making it easier for members to access everything from one source. We have invested in storage facilities to store it. • We have invested by purchasing more stock items for members to buy. Branch Uniformity We are moving towards more branch uniformity with the following initiatives: • Developing or creating a branch library for branches to hire books out for members. • Standardizing yellow pages advertising. • Listing all meeting dates for all members, so if someone travels interstate they are able to visit another branch should they wish. • The Annual Student Welcome meeting has become national. • Regular communication and support takes place with all branch chairs. • Policies and procedures of roles and decisions are being developed and will shortly be available. • Inviting branches to have autonomy in local decisions. Promotions Regarding promotions we have done and are planning the following: • We have invested in promotional material by purchasing new freestanding banners for each branch to use at promotional events. • Interview / article going in the Body and Soul copy of the Sunday Herald Sun – not sure of the date yet. • Australian Unity are doing a mail out to 200,000 of their members with a summary of an article from the website about reflexology – “isn’t reflexology just a foot massage?’’ • We have a page on the Encyclopaedia of Associations website. • We have organized reciprocal advertising with Diversity magazine, Reflexology World and other overseas journals. • We are organizing reciprocal links with other associated websites. • We have had an article published in Options magazine – a free magazine available in all health FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL TRAINING – INCEPTION AND HISTORY By Cherel Waters , NSW Continuing Professional Training (CPT) is a structured program first introduced by Reflexology Association of Australia State organisations for the further education of • Professional Reflexology practitioners. In May 1998 at the May meeting of State delegates of the Reflexology Association of Australia, the subject of CPT was first discussed as an idea to encourage members to keep up-to-date with new developments. A program for CPT was introduced in most states in July 1999, with members being required to accumulate points, complete validation slips and log cards. In this one bold move thus self-regulation and a professional level of practitioner was established. However, the CPT program was not uniform in all states and there was a general misunderstanding of CPT requirements, with reflexology practitioners varying interpretation of how points were accumulated and recorded. • • • • • for CPT points must be of a high standard and encompass reflexology-specific topics and other broad based topics Applicable to clinical practice and activities associated with managing a small business eg. Bookkeeping Provides for changes in members circumstances with an annual exemption to cover maternity leave, serious illness or compassionate grounds Financially viable so that cost will not inhibit participation by members Provides recognition of board and branch committee involvement Provides recognition of volunteer work and promotion of reflexology in the community Effectively managed and reviewed periodically with changes implemented in a timely manner With the NEW CPT program being implemented in July 2004 a Professional Member of RAA Limited is required to accumulate 20 CPT points per annum. One of the chief roles of CPT is to bridge the gap between student status and the skills and professional knowledge required in clinical practice. Reflexology is our core modality in which members are trained and in which members are required to update our skills. Selecting any of the first five activities listed on the program will meet this requirement. As long as part of the 20 CPT points include these reflexology specific activities, ie. Activities 1 - 5, then the balance can be gained in the other CPT activities, ie. Activities 6 – 11. Record keeping has been simplified - no endorsement of courses is necessary, and training records are now the sole responsibility of individual members. The member is only required to fill in the CPT form once a year, sign and date the declaration on the bottom of the form, and In July 2002, our six State organisations combined return it to the RAA Administrator with renewal of forces and the Reflexology Association of Australia membership. Limited (RAA Limited) was born. With the formation of a national body levels of membership were created will RAA Limited members can gain points through a wide CPT requirements for each level: range of activities in accordance with the CPT policy. Branch committees are actively engaged in the Associate No CPT Intermediate No CPT – but further education was organisation and promotion of workshops so members encouraged are provided with quality low cost CPT activities. CPT is vital for the ongoing upgrade of professional skills and Professional 25 units of CPT The CPT program continued in the above form with knowledge and the RAA CPT program is an expectation members continuing to accumulate annual CPT points. of professional life. In July 2001 a new CPT program was agreed on and implemented nationally, one further step closer to forming a National Body. This new program required members at Professional level to collect 25 CPT units in one year (one unit = 1 hour). The program was broken into two categories – Category 1 –10 points had to be obtained for study relating specifically to Reflexology practice; - Category 2 – the balance of 15 points to be obtained from attendance at RAA meetings, business study, public speaking, practicum exchange or holding an elected position on RAA Management committee. State branches started to be involved in organising CPT events by running workshops and organising participation in Expos such as Mind, Body, Spirit; AMA Health and other Natural Therapy Expos. Gaining CPT points was on everybody’s lips and was a much-talked about topic at meetings. Active lobbying began by State branches to the Board of Directors in October 2003, with requests to review and revise the program with the aim of simplifying what had become a nightmare for many practitioners. After much consultation a new and streamlined CPT program was developed which now has had more relevance to our Professional Practitioners with recognition of the diverse nature of running a professional practice. The RAA CPT Policy has been designed around the following principles: • Members are given broad latitude in the selection and design of their individual learning programs • Seminars, workshops and conferences that qualify FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Notice To All Presenters Of Workshops The New Year for 2007 is fast approaching. If you wish to be included in the CPT Calendar of Events please, plan ahead with your dates. The closing date for the quarterly issue is the 1st of the previous month, prior to publication. Place your paid advertisement in Foot Prints Your contact is Judee Hawkins Email: [email protected] Place your paid advertisement in your Branch Newsletter To be included in the CPT Calendar of Events Your contact is Libby Stark email: [email protected] Libby Stark – CPT Director 21 Reflexology Association of Australia PREGNANCY OEDEMA, EMOTIONS AND REFLEXOLOGY By Lyndall Mollart (RN. RM. Ma Mid. Dip. Reflexology) statistically significant, there appeared to be a greater decrease in circumference of the left (feminine) ankle, instep and toe junction * after reflexology compared to the right (Table 1). Table 1. Circumference receiving reflexology measurements Left ankle Participants 54 Mean decrease 0.07 P value 0.21 Left instep 55 0.33 0.59 Left toe* 54 0.11 0.19 Right ankle 54 0.04 0.47 Right instep 55 0.05 0.44 Right toe* 54 0.09 0.07* after * = Distal end of the foot (metatarsal-phalange joint) In conclusion, I may not have come up with many answers but I hope I have made people think. Next time you provide reflexology and notice oedema, especially with women who are pregnant or given birth recently, inquire and delve into their feelings about pregnancy and birth or their previous experience – and see what emerges and possibly resolves. References • Enkin M., Keirse M., Renfrew M., and Neilsen J. 1995. A guide to effective care in pregnancy and childbirth, 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press. • Cunningham F., McDonald P., Gant N., et al. 1997. William’s Obstetrics, 20th ed., Prentice-Hill: Englewood Cliffs, NJ. • Reynolds D. 2003. Severe gestational oedema. Journal of Midwifery Women’s Health. 48:2:146-8. • Davison J.1997. Edema in pregnancy. Kidney International, 51;59; S9096. • Brown M and Gallery E. 1994. Volume homeostatic in normal pregnancy and pre-eclampsia: physiology and clinical implications. Bailliere’s Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology; 8;2;287-309. • Young, G. and Jewell, D. 1997. Interventions for varicosities and leg oedema in pregnancy (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 2, 1999. Oxford: Update Software. • Mollart L. 2003. Single-blind trial addressing the differential effects of two reflexology techniques versus rest, on ankle and foot oedema in late pregnancy. Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery, 9:203-8. • Mollart, L. 2005. Reflexology technique for ankle/foot oedema in late pregnancy, Reflexology World, Sept:6-9 • St John R. year unknown. Prenatal Therapy and the Retarded Child. • Katz V, Ryder R, Cefalo R, Carmichael S, Goolsby R. 1990. A comparison of bedrest and immersion for treating the edema of pregnancy. Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 75;2;147-51. • Mack S & Steele D. 2000. Complementary therapies for the relief of physical and emotional stress. In D Tiran & S Mack: Complementary therapies for pregnancy and childbirth, Bailliere Tindall: Edinburgh. (p 240- 67) • Tiran D. 2000. Incorporation of complementary therapies into maternity care. In D Tiran & S Mack: Complementary therapies for pregnancy and childbirth. 2nd ed. Baillere Tindall: Edinburgh. Chapter 1: p1-21. • Jarmey, C. Acupressure for common ailments: a gaia original. • Enzer S. 2000. Reflexology: A tool for Midwives. Soul to Sole Reflexology, Sydney. Australia. • Stormer C. 1995. Language of the feet: what feet can tell you. Hodder and Stoughton: London. • Noontil. A. 2003. The body is the barometer of the soul 2. Brumby Books: Victoria. BIOFLOW– CHANGING LIVES What is Magnotherapy? Magnotherapy is the application of a magnetic field to living tissue. Magnets have been used by people and healers for thousands of years. They have been used to help relieve aches and pains, accelerate healing, improve circulation and improve nervous conditions Bioflow – People, Animals and Home • • • • • Bioflow Magnets uses patented Central Reverse Polarity technology, this creates a pulsed magnetic field that your body will never acclimatize to. A famous brand in Europe, just recently launched In Australia. Over 2 million products sold worldwide. Certified Class 1 Medical device. Excellent results with pain relief, arthritis, migraines, blood pressure, energy levels and much more. Peace of mind for you with our 90 day money back guarantee. Distributor Opportunities Open All Areas Now For more information on how these products can help you, or you clients Write to: Aisling Murray, 4 Garfield Street, Fitzroy, Vic, 3065. Tel: 03 9417 5063 or 0411 594 333 E Mail: [email protected] Website coming soon. 20 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia WHAT HAS THE BOARD BEEN UP TO? By Emma Gierschick, President food stores. • We have had an article published in Natural Therapies Health Guide. • We are creating flyers and promotional material for World Reflexology Week. Website We have made the following upgrades to the website: • Research citations will shortly be available. • Easier access to Pat McLean (the research librarian) for documents. • All branch newsletters are now on the website. • A locum page for members to advertise if they are looking for a locum. • Free web link available for members. • Policies will shortly be available to download. • A survey of members will be available. • A full research data base will be available. • Introduction of access cards for all associate members so they can log on. • Question and Answers page of commonly asked questions is available. • The previously mentioned items on FootPrints will be available. Links with Members and other Associations The board is committed to developing strong links with all its members and also other associations. To this end we have organized or started the following: • Opening discussions with the AOR in the UK and NZ Reflexology Associations regarding reciprocal links for members. • Invited a representative from the New Zealand Association to join the Australian research committee to share ideas / plans and research. • The Board has been rotating the Board meetings around each state and inviting all members of that branch to join them for dinner prior to the Board meeting to be available to talk with and listen to everyone. Other Projects we have been Undertaking • Reviewing the constitution and by-laws to make them more workable So, as you can see, we have been fairly active in developing and strengthening our Association. To summarise this year: It has been challenging and frequently stressful, but also a period of incredible growth for our Association, for myself as President and for all my colleagues on the Board and our volunteers on branch committees. Speaking personally, I have found it an honour to work with everyone and be a part of the collective desire we all have to achieve excellence in the industry we love. FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 LETTER TO RAA MEMBERS Hi RAA Members, I have recently returned to New Zealand after attending your very successful bi-annual conference in Adelaide. When I decided to register I hoped that I would have an enjoyable and interesting time and make a few contacts within the Australian Association. I certainly achieved that and more! I would like to thank all the kind and thoughtful Reflexologists who were so friendly and welcoming to me. A special thank you to the Board Members who answered numerous questions about Reflexology in Australia and for sharing their knowledge and ideas. You are very fortunate to have such a fantastic group of people on your Board who are committed to doing the best for the members. I hope that we can work together perhaps on research projects or other initiatives to support Reflexology for everyone. We would warmly welcome any RAA members to come to the Reflexology New Zealand Annual Conference in Palmerston North in June 2007. We will advertise in the FootPrints March issue about future workshops and events in NZ. Thank you all for creating a special opportunity for me. Regards Steph Gowan Auckland, New Zealand Infant Massage Instructor 4 day Workshop Leading to certification with the International Assoc. of Infant Massage Call Glenda Chapman Phone: 02 43693 668 www.iaim.net The Team at FootPrints Wish All Our Members and NonMembers a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2007 5 Reflexology Association of Australia MEMBERSHIP MATTERS PREGNANCY OEDEMA, EMOTIONS AND REFLEXOLOGY By Jenn Cooper, Membership Administrator How wonderful to meet so many members at the recent National Conference in Adelaide. I thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of the SA committee and members. They did an amazing job organising the speakers and special events and workshops. Thanks to all the members who came up to me and introduced themselves. I can now put a face to a name. We have such a wonderful community of reflexologists and you really feel this when you attend the National Conferences. Qantas were wonderful allowing me to bring down two large bags of merchandise to the conference. We had the trade table at the conference and I am pleased to say we moved merchandise to the amount well over $2000.00. I certainly came home with very little after the polo shirts, receipt books and brochures were snapped up quickly. We hardly had time to set up and enthusiastic members were lining up to purchase a new shirt and get those brochures at the special conference price. The new polo shirts in navy and also white are so popular we have now run out of some sizes. We will be ordering again in the New Year so stay posted. We are planning on having a trade table at the International Conference in Cairns Qld in 2007. We need to plan early for this one - any ideas are very welcome. Email me on [email protected] Thanks to all the members this year that returned their renewal payments and CPT forms promptly. We had a fantastic response this year with membership returns and, of course, quite a few new members have joined since the graduations. We had a number of members ask about Direct Deposit for payment. We have looked into this and are happy to report that we will have this in place for next renewal. Just a reminder that if you have renewed your insurance or first aid recently we need a current copy kept on file. Please send this to the membership administration office, fax or email copy is fine. We are also pleased to report that all members will soon have access to the members only section of the website. Traditionally it has only been Professional Members that have had this privilege. We will be providing log in numbers in the New Year now to Intermediate Members and Associate Members. This will mean that all Associate Members will be given a Membership number. This number is only used for the purpose of website log in and access. Intermediate Members will be able to use their current number and post code for access. Please be patient with us as we implement this new system. 6 By Lyndall Mollart (RN. RM. Ma Mid. Dip. Reflexology) Welcome New Members We have had 121 members join since the start of 2006. I would like to take this opportunity to present them to you. Please make them feel welcome at your branch meetings. Name Wendy Antoinette Judy Sheila Sonia Colleen Laura Helen Anthony Susan Jayne Elicia Suzanne Cally Peta Naomi Susan Jan Joanne Michelle Jacqueline Robyn Rui Louise Amy Elizabeth Ingrid Rachael Debra George Helen Kim Glenda Sinead Jeanette Susanne Catherine Stephen Cait Sandra Marlene Louise David Janette Connie Trina Natalie Catherine Amanda Teresa Sherie Joyce Stephanie Helen Sacha Delphine Karen Bernadette Diana Surname Andrews Ardren Armstrong Attree Bailey Bendel Benson Biggins Biggs Borg Bowes Brennan Brill Bruer Butson Campanale Campbell Cardy Carson Casey Chambers Chau Chen Chick Cohen Cruickshank De Neve Deam DeAngelis Divisek Donovan Doran Duffy Finlay Friend Gersch Gladman Goldthorpe Gordon Greggor Griffiths Grills Grinblat Hamill Hardy Hide Hillier Home Isles James Johnson Joseph Kelly Kingston Langsford Lowry Lund Marsh Marshall Suburb BUNBURY ALBURY ALTONA BALD HILLS ALBANY CREEK MORNINGSIDE ST KILDA JINDALEE PORT MACQUARIE ALBANY CREEK HILLARYS WATSONIA BEROWRA HEIGHTS MARRICKVILLE MANLY MACLEOD CAULFIELD NORTH JOONDANNA CREMORNE UPPER KEDRON WYNNUM ST KILDA ESSENDON NORTH BONDI BALWYN BELMONT WHEELERS HILL WARRAGUL WINSTON HILLS EASTWOOD BULLI OAK FLATS DAISY HILL MUNDARING CAMBERWELL KAPUNDA FOOTSCRAY URBENVILLE BUNBURY PETRIE HERMIT PARK NORTH MELBOURNE ORMOND BOORAGOON MT LOW TERRIGAL CHITTAWAY POINT ERINA WARRAGUL QUAKERS HILL CLOVELLY PARK KEYSBOROUGH TAMARAMA HAWTHORN EAST QUAIRADING CHAPEL HILL CROYDON ENGADINE FRANKSTON Reflexology Association of Australia State WA NSW VIC QLD QLD QLD VIC QLD NSW QLD WA VIC NSW NSW NSW VIC VIC WA NSW QLD QLD VIC VIC NSW VIC VIC VIC VIC NSW NSW NSW NSW QLD WA VIC SA VIC NSW WA QLD QLD VIC VIC WA QLD NSW NSW NSW VIC NSW SA VIC NSW VIC WA QLD NSW NSW VIC FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 experience. These stagnant or unresolved emotions may explain why some pregnant women have oedema and some do not. Oedema and emotions Complementary therapies are based on an understanding of the interaction between body, mind and spirit, and recognition of each person as an individual in the wider context of the community.12. According to Oriental medicine, the causes of disease fall into three categories: internal (the emotions); external (the weather), and other causes such as germs or poisons, trauma, diet and the effects of drugs. Each of the emotions affects the harmony of particular organs. It is natural to feel sadness, anger, or joy when the occasion demands it, but it is harmful if an emotion such as anger or fear is harboured for years.13 Susanne Enzer explains that the metaphysical explanation for oedema is stagnant or unresolved emotions - “The effects of emotions have a correspondence in the fluids of the body ie blood, lymph, urine, sweat, semen and cerebro-spinal fluid which are reflected in the fluid of the feet. In nature, oceans and rivers mostly keep moving. If they are prevented from doing so then problems occur. The same applies to the body. Fluids must move. When they stagnate or move too fast problems occur” (Enzer 2000, p 2-8).14 So, I thought I would investigate this further. Chris Stormer suggested that oedema is “overburdened and filled with unresolved burdens that prove weighty and inhibitive. Needs to unshackle the self of perceived burdens” (Stormer p 29).15 Robert St John proposed if the swollen area “is a small one, look to the function of the reflex area and you will find that there is a element of ‘holding’ or sluggishness associated with it” (St John 1976 p 21).10 Annette Noontil 16 advocated that oedema relates to a “blockage of your energy flow in whatever area you have this accumulation of serous fluid. Your negative thinking could be thinking you were not good enough or not accepting yourself in some ways or thinking you cannot give out your skills” (Noontil 2004 p115). 16 Case study: Pregnancy, oedema and emotions During the randomised study, I provided reflexology for a woman, Lee (name changed) with a pregnancy history of three healthy girls and one stillbirth baby at 36 weeks gestation. Lee was in her mid-30’s and this pregnancy was a complete surprise to her and her husband as they had believed they had finished with childbearing with their girls now in their early teens! I find this not unusual – but that’s another story. Lee suddenly developed foot/ankle oedema at 32 weeks pregnancy. I discussed with her about the study and reflexology and she consented to participate in the study and come for weekly visits to the clinic. She was FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 randomly selected into the lymphatic reflexology technique (luckily or meant-to-be?). During the visits, we generally chatted about a variety of things including her previous pregnancies and experiences. At 36 weeks, I was surprised when Lee didn’t turn up for her reflexology visit, but I thought as it was around the time she had lost her previous baby, she may have decided to stay away. Lee came the next week and I asked her how she was feeling. She said she was now feeling great as she was now 37 weeks and the baby was going well - and her foot and ankle oedema had disappeared! But she was still pregnant! Lee still had all the pregnancy hormones, increase vascularity, growing uterus. So, what had changed? Lee had passed the milestone - the anniversary of her previous stillbirth at 36 week gestation - and the issue had resolved/dissolved and her emotions were flowing. Lee gave birth to healthy boy at full term. Reflexology for foot/ankle oedema and research The lymphatic reflexology technique as developed by Susanne Enzer can be used for specific conditions such as leg, foot and generalised oedema as it moves extravascular fluid without disturbing intravascular fluid.14 The lymphatic reflexology technique mimics the lymphatic drainage action of the body, ie. interstitial fluid moves from the lymphatic capillaries to the lymphatic veins, trunks and returns into the circulatory system at the subclavian vein.14 This technique was used with my RCT7 and the nonrandomised group8. Although in the RCT, reflexology techniques (lymphatic technique or relaxing techniques) were not statistically significant in decreasing foot and ankle measurements, the techniques were significant for women’s symptom relief with the lymphatic technique having the greater effect.7 In the non-randomised group, there was a statistical significant decrease in both ankle measurements after receiving lymphatic reflexology technique.8 It would be worthwhile to further investigate the effect of reflexology and discussion or reflexology alone, for oedema reduction and resolving emotional blockages. Is there a difference between left and fight feet? Okay, I love to look at every thing while I’m at it. Is there any difference between right and left foot swelling? Metaphysically, the right foot = masculine, energy outward, giving, aggressive, competitive and practical. The left foot = feminine, energy inward, receiving, responsive, co-operative and creative.14 In the RCT7, there was no difference in the size of the participant’s ankles, insteps and toe junctions* before receiving the intervention (rest or reflexology). On average the left ankle, right instep and left toe junction * was larger (cms) overall. Although not 19 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia MEMBERSHIP MATTERS PREGNANCY OEDEMA, EMOTIONS AND REFLEXOLOGY By Jenn Cooper, Membership Administrator By Lyndall Mollart (RN. RM. Ma Mid. Dip. Reflexology) Oedema is a common and normal physiological symptom in late pregnancy.1-3 The incidence of dependent oedema in normal health pregnant women is reported to be 50-80% in the third trimester (last 12 weeks).1,4 Western texts believe that maternal age, parity and height do not have any effect on the incidence of oedema.4 described above. As a reflexologist, what I find very appropriate is women experience oedema more around their ankles, ball of the foot and the dorsal aspect distal end of the foot. These reflex zones correspond to the very vascular pregnant pelvis and the ‘growing uterus’, chest and developing breast tissue and indirect breast areas respectively. In the pregnancy context, dependent pedal oedema refers to the lower leg oedema of primary mechanical etiology. The medical explanation for leg and foot oedema in pregnancy is a result of the weight of the pregnant uterus which impedes venous return; prostaglandin-induced vascular relaxation; and reduced plasma colloid osmotic pressure.2,3 In addition, oestogen promotes sodium retention and increases mucopolysaccharide ground substance present in skin and subcutaneous tissue resulting in women during the last half of the pregnancy retaining more fluid in the body tissues.5 Although oedema in pregnancy alone is not dangerous, it can result in discomfort, feelings of heaviness, night cramps and painful paraesthesia.6 Usually, oedema resolves after the birth of the baby as the uterus returns to prepregnancy size and the hormones return to normal. So, why do some pregnant women have oedema and others do not if pregnancy hormones and all factors are the same? During my training, Susanne Enzer talked about the effects of stagnate or blocked emotions on our body. This information resonated through me as I was giving reflexology and talking to pregnant women who were experiencing moderate to severe oedema in their ankles and feet. From my midwifery clinical experience, women experiencing a viable pregnancy for the first time (pregnancy greater than 20 weeks gestation) known as primigravidas, seem more inclined to experience ankle and foot oedema in the last half of the pregnancy. My single-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT)7 recruited 74 women, of which 61% of women (45) were primgravida. I found it interesting that most of the mutipara women (women who had given birth before) recruited into the study, had experienced a previous traumatic or difficult pregnancy or labour. In the nonrandomised group of 20 women8 experiencing oedema in their feet and ankles, 70% were primigravida ie experiencing their first viable pregnancy. So that started me thinking - why do only some pregnant women experience oedema if pregnancy hormones and all factors are the same? Interestingly, women who have had no oedema or swelling during the pregnancy suddenly have very swollen feet after the birth. Why would that be when the factors that influence fluid retention are no longer current? I was unable to find any published research on this subject. Published studies have concentrated on researching strategies to decrease leg and foot oedema.8,9 Pregnancy is the time of greatest change in a woman’s life. A woman experiencing her first pregnancy may see pregnancy as a change in self-image, loss of old self and a testing of skills, maturity and strength of her relationship with her partner.11 With such enormous changes she may have feelings of vulnerability, fear and anxiety and these feelings may overwhelm her if unresolved. A woman experiencing her second or subsequent pregnancy may have unresolved issues or memories relating to a previous pregnancy or birth Martin Martin Martin Masadome Mathison Matthews McCarthy McGlinn Mchaileh McIntyre McKnight McRitchie Mendelsohn Micallef Millo Morley Smith Morrison Moss Mossman Murphy Murray Nakamura Newbery O' Keefe O' Neill Osler Pavey Pell Phang Probert Pun-Gribble MT ELIZA MT ELIZA RIVERWOOD NORTHCOTE MT ELIZA STANMORE ROZELLE MOORABBIN MILL PARK ASHGROVE MOUNT OMMANEY COORPAROO MERRICKS NORTH GEEBUNG OAKLEIGH SOUTH CANTERBURY GREENSBOROUGH KEW ST MARYS PICNIC POINT NAROOMA FLINDERS ISLAND BLACKBURN BEXLEY TEMPLESTOWE MARMION MORNINGSIDE GLEN WAVERLEY GOULBURN ALBANY WAYVILLE VIC VIC NSW VIC VIC NSW NSW VIC VIC QLD QLD QLD VIC QLD VIC VIC VIC NSW NSW NSW NSW TAS VIC NSW VIC WA QLD VIC NSW WA SA Deborah Natasha Kay Marita Linda Glenn Gail Terry Deborah Catherine Elizabeth Helen Debra Wendy Eb Tanya Bobbie Carmel Kerry Anne-Marie Karina Karen Laureen Maria Melinda Daren Dayna Josephine Pauline Carol Quigg Randall Redshaw Reynolds Robinson Rogers Rogerson Ryan Schmidt Shave Sherratt Sherwood Sinclair Skinner Smith Son Stanton Thorn Tier Tree Valko Van Der Wel Vanderwolf Veerasamy Watts-Bischof Weippert Willesee Williams Wilson Wilson ALEXANDRA HILLS COOGEE CURRUMBIN WATERS WANTIRNA GERRINGONG WILSON BLACKBURN SALISBURY EAST NAMBUCCA HEADS TAHMOOR AUSTRALIND SUBIACO DARDANUP TERRIGAL TOOWOOMBA PORT MELBOURNE ENMORE CHURCH PONT WINDAROO OTTOWAY CHERMSIDE NARANGBA WARWICK MILL PARK ALTONA MEADOWS RICHMOND GREENWOOD SPOTSWOOD SUNSHINE BEACH SOUTHPORT QLD NSW QLD VIC NSW WA VIC QLD NSW NSW WA WA WA NSW QLD VIC NSW NSW QLD SA QLD QLD QLD VIC VIC VIC WA VIC QLD QLD NATIONAL CONFERENCE The committee of South Australia thanks the 140 delegates for attending our Adelaide Festival of Feet Conference. As the Co-ordinator of the Conference I would like to thank everyone for their input, support and encouragement. This made my job less stressful over the past year. We received only 43% of the evaluation forms from the delegates who attended. All speakers were well received. It was great to have trade tables. Delegates were free to move around at breaks to network. There were several changes in the SA committee during 2005 and the venue had been decided on before I became involved. The conference committee delegates for October 2006 did the best we could to make the Adelaide Festival of Feet alive and friendly. As Vice Chair person for SA, I must say I am delighted to have several young members on our committee. “Never accept anything as dogma, allow the inner sense of knowledge to come forward in time and realise the answers for yourself” (Robert St John 1976 p5).10 Due to several delegates having to catch flights home on Sunday, the closing ceremony was brought forward. Having attended National Conferences for the past 12 years, I look forward to seeing you all again in Sydney 2008. Sue Ramsey Pregnancy oedema and reflex zones It is understandable that pregnant women’s ankles and feet will be swollen due to increased vascularity and fluid retention due to pregnancy hormones as 18 Diane Beverly Jane Rie Lynda Sonya Clare Karyl Georgette Linda Kate Alyson Rebecca Teresa Lisa Lewanna Bronwyn Kerry Christine Deborah Katie Chiharu Judy Barbara Janette Michelle Emma Sharon Daniel Melissa Pooney FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 7 Reflexology Association of Australia REIKI AND BEING The other day I was pondering the most ‘healing’ people I had ever met and I was wondering what it was that made being in their presence such a balm. There was Sister Mary Malone, the charge nurse on a children’s ward, another nurse - a gorgeous Creole woman who called everyone ‘honey chile’, the Dalai lama and a few others. What they all have in common is that being with them you feel totally safe – no matter what, that everything’s okay. They generate a feeling of spaciousness, warmth and nurturing – that I could be anyone or anything and their love and compassion would never waver for an instant; that they can see all of me and it is just fine. Where everything, no matter how frightening, can just Be and people can trust themselves and their feelings more. They reflect back, not just the parts of my being that I reveal, or my pain and my stories, but All of me. In such spaciousness much is possible; there is a lot of freedom to move. We don’t need to hold onto our beliefs so tightly, or our fears and anxieties, or insist we are right. All too often we just focus on the bits we don’t like of our being. They offer a gift of whole self. These people teach me the value of simply ‘being with’ someone. That nothing really needs to be done except seeing the person for who they really are and acknowledging our common humanity. Imagine the relief and freedom of being with someone who’s not judging us in any way, not making assumptions, not wanting anything. When I was ill for a few years I found being around most people exhausting and stressful. There was one woman I always felt good with and never drained or tired. I finally realised that it was because she never had any expectations of me or judgements, she never saw or responded to me as a ‘sick’ person. These people inspire me because they are so ‘real’. They seem to see the Truth of reality not just our facades and projections. Their hearts seem constantly open and not ‘pulling back’ or dodging issues. It’s the withdrawing or not seeing of all that people are, of limiting them with our perception that reinforces pain. Our attitude and presence is often more important than the modality we practise. I was 20 when I met Sister Mary back in the mid 80’s. She inspired me and triggered off years of questions asking: how can one stay in an open-hearted space without being overwhelmed by the suffering and pain of others? What is ‘helping’ and is what I’m doing actually ‘helping’? In 1991 I found my way to a Reiki workshop and felt that I had touched a way that could help me find some answers to those questions. Reiki is a form of spiritual healing. The word Reiki in Japanese simply means Universal or all pervading nature or ‘God’ force (Rei). ‘Ki’ represents the chi, prana or personal energy/vitality of the body. In simple terms it means the merging of spirit with matter, the manifestation of spirit in physical form. Reiki as a practice and philosophy was created by Dr Mikao Usui 8 Reflexology Association of Australia STATE MATTERS By Jacqui Bushell in the early 1900’s in Japan. Combining different teachings and spiritual practices, Usui wanted people to be able to connect more with our true nature – that luminous being, the clear light nature of mind; to be able to acknowledge our Unity with all and deepen our connection with life. He wished for all beings to be happy and that people could be motivated by compassion to help reduce suffering of self and others. Mikao Usui wanted his teachings to be available for everyone and easily accessible, not limited to one particular spiritual tradition. Although there is a Buddhist basis to much of the Reiki philosophy, Mikao Usui drew upon his martial arts background (he was born into the Samurai class), as well as upon Shintoism, Buddhism and Shugendo, which is an amalgamation of ascetic aspects of Buddhism, shamanism and Shintoism. The aim of Reiki practice is to break down our old patterns of being and perceiving, to clear our obscurations to recognising the true nature of our being and that of the world around us. It is also an invitation for us to understand that healing need not be an externalised process we receive from a practitioner, but one that lies within all of us. The only ‘prerequisites’ for practising Reiki are a body, an intent and choosing to practice being within a heart space. In the many Reiki classes I have taught there has been at least one Reflexologist in nearly every one. While not a Reflexologist myself (although I did a course in the Ingham method many years ago), I really appreciate their presence due to the fact that they understand the importance of intent and focus. Reflexologists also know the importance and skill of ‘listening’ with the body, in a way beyond ears. As when working with points on the feet, when ‘doing’ Reiki our intent, attitude and motivation is pivotal. It is the guiding force of how we connect with another being, how we perceive them, the rapport we develop with them and it guides how well we ‘listen’ to their being. I like to think of practising Reiki not as ‘doing’ another modality but as a space of Being. As such, it enables us to more fully develop awareness of unconditional love and compassion. You don’t ‘do’ love, you are love. Unconditional love has no object. Such a space creates a profound invitation for us to recognise more of who we really are, the Truth of our Being, and this allows the potential for much movement and change. Hello to members around Australia. Our Qld State Branch has been quite active in this last quarter. Our monthly meetings have been focusing on an Educational content relating to Reflexology. In July, Sharon Stathis shared Auryvedic Reflexology with our Members. We saw some wonderful pictures of her travels involving her presentations around the world and introducing the method to our members. we were able to make a small profit. This is another example of our members getting the message out to the public. In August our Chairperson, Sue Moore, presented Reflexology and the Stroke Patient. Sue gave us an informative medical presentation of this condition and how she treated the rehabilitation of the patient with Reflexology. In November, there will be a Review of the SA. Conference by a Panel of Speakers. Libby Stark In September there was a combined presentation on Cystic Fibrosis by Beth Trickett, who presented the Medical history of Cystic Fibrosis, together with Libby Stark, who talked the members through a Reflexology treatment for this condition which included the latest knowledge of treatment from the Danish Reflexology. Three of our practitioners gave complimentary Reflexology treatments to a group of mothers of children with Cystic Fibrosis. This was well received. In October we had Jan Kiss with her presentation to the members on Foot Mobilization Exercises - together with the knowledge and awareness of the different muscles involved. She had the members up standing and taking part in these exercises!! World Reflexology Day for Qld.was Reflexology in the Park at Red Hill where the Reflexology Path meanders along the waterway. This was enjoyed by members of the public. 26 Qld. Members from around the State and as far north as Townsville, attended the Reflexology Conference in Adelaide and I am sure they came away with many inspirations and renewed enthusiasm for their profession. Life Memberships Congratulations to Marion Bond Sharon Stathis & Heather Edwards on your long awaited awards, granted at the 2006 Adelaide AGM New Technology Available 100% Safe Natural Mineral Detox Ask me why it is the biggest Breakthrough since Penicillin Some Qld members attended the Anatomy Exhibition from Germany which gave us a wonderful insight to the working of the human body. This left us with no doubt as to how Reflexology can be effective throughout the body. Removes heavy metals, toxins and other substances from the body. Results that give you energy and life force. Our State Branch has recently taken part in the Living Now Expo and thanks to many members taking part, for further information 0438 144 789 Contact Jenn Cooper Reiki is a way of connecting with the wisdom of the body. Reiki energy doesn’t ‘cure’ in and of itself, but supports the body’s inherent vitality and healing capability. The energy always flows to the cause. Often people will say ‘oh I can feel the energy in my knee’, when my hands are on their head or elsewhere. Sometimes it feels like there are ‘extra’ hands on their body. As practitioners we need to leave our expectations and assumptions at the door. It is up to us to decide what needs to be ‘done’ for or to a body. We don’t need to direct the energy flow. I leave that up to the person’s being and focus on being as present as possible and centred in a heart space. As we ‘be with’ a person and acknowledge them as whole just as they are, there is a great potential for movement. The FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 17 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia REIKI AND BEING STATE MATTERS Judith Hayman from Echolife was invited to speak at our branch meeting in October. Judith provided us with a wealth of information regarding the health benefits of nutritional supplements and lotions based on magnesium. The response from members was so great that I understand Judith is still receiving orders and sending out additional information to members. The recent introduction of Trade Tables at branch meetings was also very well received. October saw Margaret Meyer, a fellow reflexologist (and aromatherapist) display her wonderful range of aromatic skincare including homemade treatment products created from plant extracts and essential oils. September 06 was a busy month for Victorian volunteers with the successful promotion of the RAA at two separate events: Big Day Off 2 (Royal Womens’ Hospital) and Inaugural Palliative Care Nurses Australia Conference (Y Hotel). Reflexology was in high demand at both events with a multitude of positive comments and feedback from recipients. The Victorian committee recently appointed Jeanette Friend (PM) to oversee RAA Promotional Events/Volunteer Co-Ordination in Victoria. Jeanette is already preparing for a busy November with 2 RAA promotional events lined-up: the National Health Expo at which the RAA will have a designated stand and the Upstream Foundation’s Charity Walk. We also congratulate Jennifer Hill on her appointment to the National Committee and further to the recent AGM in Adelaide. We wish Jennifer all the best with her new role as Treasurer. To all Reflexologists Australia-wide, have a Merry Christmas and stay safe. Rachael Fabbro FACIAL REFLEXOLOGY AGAIN IN AUSTRALIA PERTH AUGUST 2007 MODULES 1,2 August 18-21 3,4 August 24-27 Modules 1,2 must be completed before 3,4. Each course 4 days BOOKING FORMS Contact [email protected] COMING TO SYDNEY Contact : Sue Ehinger 02 4976 3881 16 By Jacqui Bushell I have just got back from our October Board Meeting and the RAA Conference in Adelaide. It was an excellent Conference, very well organized and a great opportunity for us all to meet new friends from all over Australia (and 1 from New Zealand) and catch up with old ones. As my first Conference I wonder why I have never made a point of supporting my professional Association in this manner. I had the honour of meeting some wonderful people from our Association and the privilege of speaking with all our presenters both domestic and international. For information, practical skills, networking and a host of social reasons, surely the National Conference would have to rate as No.1. Which brings me back to State Matters and the fact that NSW are hosting the next Conference in 2008. We have a tough act to follow as I’m assured the last few Conferences were the best ever! Ideas and suggestions are already on the table and I’m sure quite a few of us are already excited at the prospect. We have our Library up and running and several books were borrowed at the last meeting. We are currently looking at borrowing on a broader scale by members outside of the Sydney metropolitan area as well. Any donations to our Library can be made at one of our monthly meetings or contact me on 0408-628212. Thank you to Russell McAlister from Reflexology World and those members who have already donated books and journals. Reflexology paths are something the NSW Committee would like to incorporate into various Councils. A few Councils have been approached with the idea of continuing Qld’s fine example. Coming up to the end of our first six months our Committee has settled in and is working well Jane Hodgett is doing a wonderful job organizing Practitioner Education and we are doing a workshop on Aromatherapy cream making in November. Please let Jane or a Committee member know if you have suggestions for Workshops or feedback on any previously held ones. Our newer members would have also heard the dulcet tones of Dot Stitt as she rings each new member to welcome them to the Association. Why not come to our next meeting and meet Dot in person, put a face to a voice as it were. We would love to see you. Kerrie Baldock Welcome to our new RAA Board member from Tasmania Hello and welcome to Sarah Blain as the elected Board member from the Tasmanian State Branch. On behalf of the Reflexology Association of Australia, we would like to welcome you aboard and look forward to working with you towards our goal of strengthening the vision of Reflexology in the future. Libby Stark – Vice President FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 most profound gift we can offer anyone is to be fully present with them, to see them as greater than their issues and diagnoses. In this way we are not reinforcing a person’s perceptions and projections. Such neutrality allows an opportunity to shift many things. It is only our perception that creates limitations. Energy is continually flowing through us, through our subtle anatomy, our meridians, through every atom of our being. Matter is composed of light and sound. All we are is energy, in constant vibration. With Reiki we are starting to work with frequency a little more consciously. Reiki is ‘taught’ by a series of attunements. These attunements don’t give us anything new or different but support an increased awareness of ourselves as energetic and spiritual beings. They provide an invitation for the heart chakra to open and to support the heart as a key balancing point of the body. This encourages our development of compassion and love and our ability to acknowledge the Oneness of being. The attunement process is not a magical ‘gift’ and doesn’t make a teacher ‘special’ in any way. All it is, is a reminder of who we really are. As we start to shift our focus from the ways we separate ourselves from other people and experiences, then automatically there is a greater flow of energy through our being. We are already connected, already at One with all, the only thing that alters is our awareness of it. This is the gift of the Reiki attunement. I think of it like a tool or a vehicle to enable us to get from A to B, to go from dualistic awareness and the way we clutch onto some things and reject others, to a space of recognising that there is nothing that we are not, that all exists in Unity. Meditation techniques and other spiritual practices are also just as effective. I think the reason why Reiki is so incredibly popular is because of the ease at which we can start to experience these insights. Reflexologists commonly tell me that after a Reiki attunement, they can sense the points more easily, which ones to stimulate longer or hold, that there’s a deeper ‘listening’ with the body, with a greater sense of connection between the feet points and body. Reiki practitioners usually say that they feel less tired when working and more energised at the end of the day. This is because energy is continually flowing through us. We are not using our own ‘reserves’. How Reflexologists incorporate Reiki into their treatments varies. The main thing to remember is that the energy flows automatically whenever we touch another with intent. There is no need to do a ‘special’ Reiki bit; however some practitioners hold the feet for a few minutes before starting the basic warm up and again at the end. Others do the reflexology session and then some hands on for a few minutes; on the belly or head. Many have reported back the greater depth of relaxation the client feels. If a client is agitated then placing hands on the forehead and occiput or belly or the ‘diaphragm’ point on the foot, supports someone to be more present FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 and centred. Reiki also aids pain relief. Many clients fall asleep or say they’ve never felt so relaxed or it’s the first time they’ve been without pain in ages. As we still ourselves and bring our focus to connecting with the heart, energy flows through the practitioner’s body, ‘topping them up’ then radiating through the auric field, through the hands and other chakras. It is not just the hands the energy flows through, although often they get very hot. The energy radiates through our heart and impacts on all our subtle anatomy. Working with Reiki is a spiritual practice, not just something I ‘do’ when clients come in. It is something I can practice throughout my day, a state of mindfulness. It is so easy to sit on my hill and meditate and feel virtuous, it’s another to get off my cushion and act within this state; when stressed, with clients, when cleaning my teeth, driving. When we are centred in the heart and choosing to Act from within this space it impacts on our whole environment and all within it. I like to do ‘community service’ work by walking down the street or in Coles in this space. My intention is that it be an offering of support for anyone. Practicing Reiki supports the development of us learning to be kinder, more loving, generous and hopefully wise. To understand that we are not all separate but exist in Unity. It has broadened my sense of being of service. As my own heart gradually chinks open a little further, then I recognise the levels to which all beings experience pain and suffering. All that any of us really want is to be happy. Reiki promotes alleviation of suffering not by addressing a ‘problem’ or by a ‘fix it’ approach, but by inviting us to recognise the True nature of reality, that we are all, always whole and don’t actually need to be ‘healed’. Our attitude and motivation are incredibly important. Every thought we have is generating pattern that is emitted into the world. Everything we do, every breath and thought has impact – and collective impact. We are accountable for what we’re choosing to communicate to another being. Working in this Reiki ‘space’ of openheartedness enables me to practice being more present with other people and not pull back from their pain, but be with them in a genuine and more neutral way. For me Reiki is about developing a fearless heart; a heart that doesn’t close down in any circumstances. So that I can be with anyone without withdrawing or pulling back from their suffering or from my own vulnerability or fear of overwhelm. Reiki teaches me how much support is available moment to moment. It’s never just ‘me’ but me plus all that is available. As I connect with this space it provides an invitation for others to tap into it as well. It’s a process of self empowerment. As you radiate joy and love it enables others to connect with their own joy, clarity, and love. For me, Reiki is Coming Home. 9 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia STATE MATTERS EAR CANDLES 100% bees wax & calico with Reflexology. I must begin my report by apologizing for not managing to get anything into the last edition of Footprints. Unfortunately time just got away from me after taking over as Chairperson in May. It has been a VERY busy time both with family matters and In June we had the Everywoman Expo that took place here in Perth. We had a much smaller area allotted to us this time and it worked extremely well for us. We had a very successful Study Day in July down at Mandurah. This event takes place once a year there and, we hope, makes it easier for some of our south west members to attend. This year the topic was on understanding and managing spinal pain with seven speakers from relevant professions (Reflexology included) speaking about it. I am glad to report that, to date, it was our best attended yet. September was a busy month with the World Reflexology Week. Four of us took our message out into the Perth Cultural Centre courtyard and worked on a nice ‘tan’ whilst doing each others feet and informing the general public about Reflexology. We also had a meeting and Swap Day out at the Herdsman Wildlife Centre – the animals and birdlife were reasonably quiet - I think that the only wild ones there were us! October saw a flurry of activity as all had to be as upto-date as possible before a sizeable contingent of us made our way over to Adelaide for the conference. Congratulations and thank you Adelaide for a very wellrun conferencel. It was most enjoyable and your hospitality was wonderful. Box of 31 pairs = $124.00 excl GST or $4.00 per pair excl GST plus Freight: 1 box $15.00 - 4 boxes $15.00 To Order Why Karma Natural Health Products Office: 03 9787 5360 Mobile: 0405 13 23 43 Email: [email protected] 116 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza Vic 3930 10 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 We are now readying ourselves for the Kalparin Retreat weekend and the Conscious Living Expo which runs over four days. We will, hopefully, be able to let lots of people have a sample of how good Reflexology is and that they will then spread the word about us. These are just some of the items that we have been doing; there have of course been various courses, workshops and coffee discussion evenings, plus committee and other meetings to attend to. All in all, a Reflexologist’s life can never been seen as ‘dull’ and we are at least managing to have a variety of occasions to earn CPT points. As this will be the last FootPrints for the year, I would like, on behalf of the members of Western Australia, to wish everyone a Very Safe, Healthy and Joyful Christmas and New Year. Valerie Dewar FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Wow!! Wasn’t our National Conference 2006 Adelaide Festival of Feet exciting, challenging and full of fun? From the minute delegates stepped out of the lifts and saw those bright pink tops they must have felt excited. Our guest speakers International and National were interesting and great to listen to. They must have surely given us all some new tools to work with. It was good for all our committee members to see that all the hard work leading up to the Conference was well worthwhile. Yes South Australian members “you’ve done us proud”. Margaret Rowett tissue salts. The Tasmanian branch of the Association had a State Meeting at Helen's (President) in August. Helen provided us all with her usual delicious and healthy spread for lunch. There was an excellent talk from the proprietor of the Devonport Health Food Shop - all about the value of We had a number of State Members going to the National Reflexology Conference in Adelaide. We will hear how it all went in 2 weeks' time - Nov 12th - at the next meeting. This will be our Christmas breakup - it is early as it gets so hectic for everyone once December comes along! The Guest Speaker will be Ellen Allen, a local Naturopath who has studied the condition of ADHD extensively, recently publishing 2 books on this and other subjects. Membership numbers remain static. Mary Farr and Andrew Whitehead National Referral Service If you require a reflexologist in a particular area, town or state, the Reflexology Association Referal Service is able to assist. We can put you in touch with a qualified reflexologist in most states of Australia Phone: (0500) 502 250 Or visit our website at: www.reflexology.org.au 15 Reflexology Association of Australia RAA CONFERENCE REFLEXION By Pauline Slyth , QLD It had everything….. Elephants feminin dolphins meerkats Tigers optus ad flirtologists lipstick munching who would have thought R’ologists could eat so much CAKE! Never mind the kilos of lipstick and e-motions are what drive us and we are all here to be ourselves believe in that connection with the divine in disguise happy clappy singing divine sparkling light lifting the room and the ‘ologists to be who they are but we are all one what is inside is outside and it is all connected and we are all connected and some of us know it already and the Universe is expanding and accelerating and some of us know it already. And we are connected by energy and it is energy that links us communication is energy and energy is communication and this is the strands the strings that connect us and energy is sound and energy is light and energy has frequency and resonance and vibration and we can choose love or fear strength or vulnerability and we are all blessed whether we like it or not. Perspective, perspective, unusual perspective what did you see? trigeminal nerve pain excruciating release and let go relief is in the EARS! who would believe it…wisdom of the auricles. Patterns repeated resonances throughout the body fundamental frequencies 1st resonance 2nd resonance 3rd resonance just like rainbows and light spectrums through crystal prisms not only one but many resonances throughout the body FEET hands ears meridians energy channels it is all there we already have all the answers out there in the Universe inside us all just connect and be in awareness without belief systems don’t confine your creativity live your life in comfort. Ortho-bionomy is a technical term for comfort ahh that feels better hmm I’ll have some more of that release and let go relief is in the comfort allow yourself and there is Nerve Reflexology it is taking off in Europe Denmark Belgium UK all happening very precise but it is also important to tune into intuition get the frequency that “invites you inside” that is where the healing occurs at the resonance of intention intensity energy in energy out what goes around comes around we are all going to be just f.i.n.e. well maybe if we live in truth…ooooh … that’s hard to do. 14 And ‘motions’ passed at the AGM all passed easily no resistance R’ologists know about constipation free flow no blockages. Ooops cheeky! Fight or flight oh no! there goes your adrenalin off the scale cholesterol and cortisone and look now your stress is in your hormones villi villi rushing rushing be present present yourself and time will allow for all possibilities especially if you have come from another land special dispensation allowed. We are alive online ‘thanks James’ you are doing a marvellous job linking us up ethereally grounded in electronic motherboard connections log-on post your comments communicate communicate there are endless possibilities the potential is there use it use it use it or lose it. Who was that guy ‘Ted’? tall handsome in a certain kind of way and a winner with the ladies that’s for sure dynamic in his presentation don’t forget the ‘chemistry’ it was there at the dancing energy transfer in the chemical connection it was there…anyone else see it? Pink T-shirts gorgeous!!! And the lovely lady who works with the children all success stories and the children already know the energy they feel the energy know the truth they are closer to the source not filled with blockages and belief systems open to experience and reaping the rewards of this beautiful gift we all have and blessed as we are to sit at the feet of all our clients and we sit there with respect and gratitude and the lovely Aunty sang the beautiful song at the end that just topped off the perfection of it all and she works with stones and she thanks her cells everyday for doing the work they do and she is connected to the energy of the Universe and knows truth. Enjoy the Goji difference Himalayan Goji™ Juice For further Information Glenda Hodge 07 3395 1906 www.energyforliving.com.au Order on line energyforliving.FreeLife.com FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia CASE STUDY – RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE By Beverley Mulcahy , WA Client: John Age: 53 Presenting Conditions: Ischaemic heart disease caused by high cholesterol and hypertension and also pterygium (bilateral). Disease Process: Ischaemic heart disease or coronary artery disease is a condition in which fatty deposits accumulate in the cells lining the wall of the coronary arteries. Two of the risk factors are high cholesterol and hypertension. Cholesterol is a vitally important substance which is used for building our cell membranes and producing several of our hormones. The liver normally makes all the cholesterol our body needs but cholesterol also enters our body from dietary sources and this is where we often overload our system, although there can be hereditary factors involved as well. When there is too much it builds up in the walls of our arteries and causes the arteries to harden, a process called atherosclerosis. This narrows the arteries causing blood pressure to rise which, in turn, forces materials such as cholesterol into the artery walls causing further narrowing. It is a dangerous cycle. When arteries supplying the brain are blocked, a stroke can result, and when blocked arteries are the ones which supply the heart, a heart attack can result (Uren & Collins, 2005). There are also external factors which can raise blood pressure such as stress from worry, emotional strain or constant tension. Combine these with regular pick me ups in the forms of coffee, alcohol and cigarettes and this will eventually throw the whole system off balance, physically and emotionally (Bovill, p76, 2000). Background: John is a bachelor who works in a busy and stressful occupation with a high level of responsibility and lots of travelling. He stated that he loved fatty foods such as lamb chops and is slightly overweight. He smokes, drinks alcohol and admits to being basically lazy. In 2004, following an angina attack, John had an angiogram which showed a partially (80%) blocked coronary artery. He then had a stent inserted to return blood flow to normal. John is on numerous medications to lower his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. He was unaware what his medications actually did, just trusted his doctor implicitly. At the time of the case study John had been on these medications for 15 months, he had made changes to his diet and decreased the amount of alcohol he consumed but had been unable to give up smoking. He is a heavy smoker. He had also started walking occasionally for exercise. The medications and lifestyle changes had lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels but they were still above the normal or desired level. John also suffers from an irritating scratchy feeling in his eyes from the pterygium and complained of small aches and pains which moved around his body as well as often feeling tired. Aims: The main aim of this case study was to bring John’s body back into a state of balance allowing major FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 organs to function at an optimum level. Hopefully, this would allow medications to work more efficiently and blood pressure and cholesterol levels could normalise. It was also to learn about this particular disease process as it has become more prevalent. Physical Observations of the Feet: Feet are quite pale in colour and skin is dry. The right big toe has a build up of bony tissue making it quite thick and inflexible. There are also deep cracks and calloused skin around the heart reflex area on the left foot. Feet are broad across which pronounces the shoulder reflex area. Reflex Areas Relating to Conditions: For the Ischaemic heart disease, treatments focussed on the heart reflex area which was worked thoroughly, through and around the callouses present here. To lessen the risk of further heart problems, reflex areas associated with high blood pressure were deemed very important. So focus was on the brain stem reflex as it contains the cardiovascular centre which regulates the rate and force of heartbeat and the diameter of blood vessels (Tortora, p231, 1997); the adrenal glands and kidneys because of the renin-angiotensin mechanism as a regulator of blood volume and thus blood pressure (p.305); and also the hypothalamus and adrenal medulla because of their regulation of homeostasis by releasing hormones which increase blood pressure by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels. This mechanism can become stuck when the body is under continual stress and always in fight-or-flight mode, so adrenal production needs normalising (Tortora, p307, 1997). For this reason the solar plexus reflex area is an important point to work thoroughly as relaxation is a key factor for people with high blood pressure (Kunz & Kunz, p147, 2003). The eye reflex points were worked to lessen the uncomfortable symptoms of pterygium. Linking methods were used with the heart and brain stem reflexes and also to balance each zone at the end of session. Although all the above reflex areas are important and were sensitive when worked with a feeling of congestion or graininess, when it comes to relaxation it is the whole treatment that gets results and returns the body to a balanced state where homeostasis can be maintained more easily. The Treatments: 8 treatments were given over a period of 3 months, from the 5/1/06 to the 30/3/06. Each week the same reflex areas asked for attention but progressively the congestion and sensitivity in each reflex area lessened with some clearing as they were worked. By the 4th treatment John was still making an effort with exercise, diet and decreasing alcohol and cigarettes and he stated that he was feeling better, sleeping better and his eyes were not bothering him as much. It felt like we were progressing. There was no major healing crisis, just slow and steady progress with a definite change in the feel of sensitive reflex areas. The right foot seemed to be clearing with more ease 11 Reflexology Association of Australia CASE STUDY – RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE By Beverley Mulcahy , WA than the left foot which had developed an elusive quality with pain appearing as I moved off the area or moving as reflex points were worked. By the 8th and final treatment the majority of reflex areas felt clear or needed minimal work during the treatment to clear. The resisting areas were the eye reflex points which were consistently sensitive for the duration although the physical symptoms of the pterygium had lessened noticeably. The brain stem reflex area was also consistently sensitive on the left foot. Although sensitivity was decreasing it had not cleared and may have needed more time. John’s eyes were still feeling improved and the small aches and pains that had bothered him were gone. These were listed as side effects of 2 of the medications. Conclusion: John’s blood pressure was checked before and after each treatment, for the 1st treatment it was 147/95 before and 150/95 after. This lack of difference indicated that blood pressure did not decrease with relaxation, it was stuck. By the last treatment the reading was 145/90 before and 135/85 after, indicating that through relaxation, blood pressure could now be decreased to a healthier level. John’s cholesterol level was tested 1 month before treatment commenced and then again towards the end of treatment, and showed that his cholesterol level had decreased significantly. The simple concept of raised cholesterol needs defining here, as it is actually abnormalities in different types of lipids that predict the risk factor. High levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL-C) and low levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL-C), with associated increases in triglycerides more accurately reflect risk of coronary artery disease (Jeejeebhoy, 2003). It was the LDL-C and triglyceride levels that showed a decreased level with John’s last test leaving him with healthy levels of cholesterol. John was very pleased with the results of his efforts and was congratulated by his doctor. Because of the interactions between medications, reflexology and lifestyle changes made by John, it was unclear what part reflexology had played in the general improvement experienced. However, I feel that this case study has been beneficial to John’s overall health and I have enjoyed the learning process associated with it. Thank you. References: • • • • • Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage Cert. IV in Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage (An Mo Tui Na HLT40102) Accredited by VETAB, ATMS, AMT, ARM One year comprehensive training program specialized in Chinese Remedial Massage Therapy and ‘Chi’ Acupressure. Training Centre: Course Commence: Penrith 29th Jan. - Strathfield 31st Jan 2007 Bovill, N. (1998), Hypertension, the Silent Killer; in The Natural way to Better Health and Longer Life. p. 76-77. Jeejeebhoy, K. (2003), The grainy, nutty and fishy diet; in Medical Post. Volume 39, p.31-32. Kunz, B. & Kunz, K. (2003), Reflexology, Health at your Fingertips. London, Dorling Kindersley Limited. Tortora, G. J. (1996), Introduction to the Human Body, 4th Edition. Sydney, Addison Wesley Longman Inc. Uren, Dr. N.& Collins, Dr. S. (2005), High Cholesterol Level (hypercholesterolaemia). Found at http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases China Acupressure Massage (Tui Na) 2007 Study Tour with Master Zhang Hao Place: China International Exchange Centre of Traditional Chinese Medicine – Beijing th st 6 – 21 April, 2007 Date: Departure: Sydney (Direct Flight to Beijing) • Two weeks intensive training in Five reputable TCM Hospitals • Daily hands on clinical experience with expert physicians • Lectures on diagnosis, Tui Na, Qi healing & Chinese reflexology • Morning outdoor Tai Chi & Qi Gong training & exercises • Evening shows such as Peking opera and Acrobatic show • Weekend sightseeing of the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and much more… Upon completion, a certificate of participation in Chinese Acupressure-Tui Na Massage training will be issued from: Upon completion of this qualification, the graduates will be able to gain advance standing into Diploma of Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage (HLT50102). ‘The State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, People’s Republic of China’ For detail and registration, please visit ww.chihealing.com.au For details: www.chihealing.com.au Chi-Chinese Healing College Registered Training Organisation 12 Special tour cost $3990.00 Book early for limited placement. Chi-Chinese Healing College (02) 9899 9823 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia LITTLE FEET @ 30 THOUSAND FEET By Robyn Forshaw MAR[UK], RAA [P.M.], WA The harsh cry of a frustrated baby broke into the cabin as the aircraft levelled out for the ten hour night journey from Perth. These were not sobs of sore ears or unknown surroundings, but the harsh, distressed and concentrated screams of a baby in trauma. The quiet words and rocking of the mother did nothing to ally this upsetting hysteria as she brought her baby to the back of the cabin. Moving and sitting next to the mother to offer my service as a qualified Reflexologist, I could now see the distress of this six month old baby. Prostrate but erect, stiff with a red face, eyes bulging, a face full of tears and mucous, arms flung lateral with tight tiny fists, legs stiff but occasionally pummelling the air, body tight with arched back. Previous to the crying, she had vomited the contents of her stomach after a bottle of formula that had contained some ‘medicinal relaxant’ which had been suggested to the mother by a relative who was a doctor. This was to be an aide to have the baby sleep for most of the journey. The realization to me was that this medicinal aide was either giving a reaction or that the vomiting had created cramps in the stomach and distaste in the mouth and throat of the babe to have her in such a traumatic state. Accepting my help, the mother whisked off the little pink trousers as I checked for contra-indications. The tiny feet were as hot as the face was red. Even though the feet and legs had an occasional thrashing movement, they did not try to remove my hands. While the mother was rocking her and speaking softly, I used gentle touch and worked the following reflex areas in this order - both feet together for at least 5-10 seconds each: Solar Plexus, diaphragm, stroking the plantar and then dorsal, returning to the Solar Plexus and diaphragm, the stomach, stroking the plantar and dorsal, Solar Plexus, the throat, adrenals, stroking the plantar and dorsal, Solar Plexus. At this stage the cries seemed less intense with small gaps of silence. It seemed that the body was calming but the reaction to distress was still flowing through her as the body was still a little rigid and the cries now were probably a habit. I asked the mother to just gently rock her and no talking as her eyes seemed to be closing at times. The reflexes I worked now were: to stroke the brain and the spine several times and then flow the stroke from the spine to the plantar and dorsal areas so that the CNS throughout the body was continuing to calm, returned at the end to the diaphragm and Solar Plexus. The distressful crying had now stopped and only the occasional jerk of the body showed that relaxation and sleep were now encroaching on this little one; her face had lost the intense red, was now a baby pink; eyes were staying closed. Her feet and legs, now quite floppy, were warm instead of hot and in a relaxed state; the little hands were able to be released from clasping her mother’s necklace and not be woken, the body was FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 in a more natural sleeping state with slow, easy breathing. The reflexes worked, including the brain and spine, were now changed – placid not buzzing, cool not hot and wistful not screaming and standing out. The baby was now deeply asleep, the mother relieved, relaxed and so thankful to be once again holding her placid baby in her arms. After a short time I felt the babe was staying relaxed, sleeping well and able to return to the aircraft cot as the aircrew now needed the seats. Seven hours later she woke placidly to play with toys and toes as the aircraft started its descent. Although the treatment was within the darkness of the cabin and the feet were tiny, the minute reflex points within them of the Solar Plexus, adrenals, stomach and throat were easily located with the sides of the thumb. This digit was used so that the hand was enclosing each foot and used on the dorsal surface while the thumb came easily to the plantar. By intending the energy to these tiny points it gave added stimulation/relaxation and direction as well. No doubt some of the medication may have helped her to sleep, but the Reflexology administered certainly took her out of trauma, allowed relaxation and, therefore, sleep to take place and let the mother be more comfortable for the rest of the journey. Maternity Reflexology With Lyndall Mollart PART ONE: Dates yet to be finalised, possible April or June 2007 PART TWO: Sat/Sun 10/11 March 2007 Government Accredited Course $275.00 per Part or $440.00 entire course Located at: Reflexology Centre Australia 10 Wolff Street, Windaroo, Qld 4207 Phone: 07 3804 0128 CRANIOSACRAL SEMINAR IN PERTH Dr Martine Faurre Alderson will present workshops in Perth in September 2007. * Basic course * Advanced course September 7/8 September 9/10 For details please contact Brigitte Johnson on email [email protected] or telephone (08)9387 1305 13 Reflexology Association of Australia CASE STUDY – RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE By Beverley Mulcahy , WA than the left foot which had developed an elusive quality with pain appearing as I moved off the area or moving as reflex points were worked. By the 8th and final treatment the majority of reflex areas felt clear or needed minimal work during the treatment to clear. The resisting areas were the eye reflex points which were consistently sensitive for the duration although the physical symptoms of the pterygium had lessened noticeably. The brain stem reflex area was also consistently sensitive on the left foot. Although sensitivity was decreasing it had not cleared and may have needed more time. John’s eyes were still feeling improved and the small aches and pains that had bothered him were gone. These were listed as side effects of 2 of the medications. Conclusion: John’s blood pressure was checked before and after each treatment, for the 1st treatment it was 147/95 before and 150/95 after. This lack of difference indicated that blood pressure did not decrease with relaxation, it was stuck. By the last treatment the reading was 145/90 before and 135/85 after, indicating that through relaxation, blood pressure could now be decreased to a healthier level. John’s cholesterol level was tested 1 month before treatment commenced and then again towards the end of treatment, and showed that his cholesterol level had decreased significantly. The simple concept of raised cholesterol needs defining here, as it is actually abnormalities in different types of lipids that predict the risk factor. High levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL-C) and low levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL-C), with associated increases in triglycerides more accurately reflect risk of coronary artery disease (Jeejeebhoy, 2003). It was the LDL-C and triglyceride levels that showed a decreased level with John’s last test leaving him with healthy levels of cholesterol. John was very pleased with the results of his efforts and was congratulated by his doctor. Because of the interactions between medications, reflexology and lifestyle changes made by John, it was unclear what part reflexology had played in the general improvement experienced. However, I feel that this case study has been beneficial to John’s overall health and I have enjoyed the learning process associated with it. Thank you. References: • • • • • Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage Cert. IV in Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage (An Mo Tui Na HLT40102) Accredited by VETAB, ATMS, AMT, ARM One year comprehensive training program specialized in Chinese Remedial Massage Therapy and ‘Chi’ Acupressure. Training Centre: Course Commence: Penrith 29th Jan. - Strathfield 31st Jan 2007 Bovill, N. (1998), Hypertension, the Silent Killer; in The Natural way to Better Health and Longer Life. p. 76-77. Jeejeebhoy, K. (2003), The grainy, nutty and fishy diet; in Medical Post. Volume 39, p.31-32. Kunz, B. & Kunz, K. (2003), Reflexology, Health at your Fingertips. London, Dorling Kindersley Limited. Tortora, G. J. (1996), Introduction to the Human Body, 4th Edition. Sydney, Addison Wesley Longman Inc. Uren, Dr. N.& Collins, Dr. S. (2005), High Cholesterol Level (hypercholesterolaemia). Found at http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases China Acupressure Massage (Tui Na) 2007 Study Tour with Master Zhang Hao Place: China International Exchange Centre of Traditional Chinese Medicine – Beijing th st 6 – 21 April, 2007 Date: Departure: Sydney (Direct Flight to Beijing) • Two weeks intensive training in Five reputable TCM Hospitals • Daily hands on clinical experience with expert physicians • Lectures on diagnosis, Tui Na, Qi healing & Chinese reflexology • Morning outdoor Tai Chi & Qi Gong training & exercises • Evening shows such as Peking opera and Acrobatic show • Weekend sightseeing of the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and much more… Upon completion, a certificate of participation in Chinese Acupressure-Tui Na Massage training will be issued from: Upon completion of this qualification, the graduates will be able to gain advance standing into Diploma of Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage (HLT50102). ‘The State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, People’s Republic of China’ For detail and registration, please visit ww.chihealing.com.au For details: www.chihealing.com.au Chi-Chinese Healing College Chi-Chinese Healing College Registered Training Organisation 12 Special tour cost $3990.00 Book early for limited placement. (02) 9899 9823 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia LITTLE FEET @ 30 THOUSAND FEET By Robyn Forshaw MAR[UK], RAA [P.M.], WA The harsh cry of a frustrated baby broke into the cabin as the aircraft levelled out for the ten hour night journey from Perth. These were not sobs of sore ears or unknown surroundings, but the harsh, distressed and concentrated screams of a baby in trauma. The quiet words and rocking of the mother did nothing to ally this upsetting hysteria as she brought her baby to the back of the cabin. Moving and sitting next to the mother to offer my service as a qualified Reflexologist, I could now see the distress of this six month old baby. Prostrate but erect, stiff with a red face, eyes bulging, a face full of tears and mucous, arms flung lateral with tight tiny fists, legs stiff but occasionally pummelling the air, body tight with arched back. Previous to the crying, she had vomited the contents of her stomach after a bottle of formula that had contained some ‘medicinal relaxant’ which had been suggested to the mother by a relative who was a doctor. This was to be an aide to have the baby sleep for most of the journey. The realization to me was that this medicinal aide was either giving a reaction or that the vomiting had created cramps in the stomach and distaste in the mouth and throat of the babe to have her in such a traumatic state. Accepting my help, the mother whisked off the little pink trousers as I checked for contra-indications. The tiny feet were as hot as the face was red. Even though the feet and legs had an occasional thrashing movement, they did not try to remove my hands. While the mother was rocking her and speaking softly, I used gentle touch and worked the following reflex areas in this order - both feet together for at least 5-10 seconds each: Solar Plexus, diaphragm, stroking the plantar and then dorsal, returning to the Solar Plexus and diaphragm, the stomach, stroking the plantar and dorsal, Solar Plexus, the throat, adrenals, stroking the plantar and dorsal, Solar Plexus. At this stage the cries seemed less intense with small gaps of silence. It seemed that the body was calming but the reaction to distress was still flowing through her as the body was still a little rigid and the cries now were probably a habit. I asked the mother to just gently rock her and no talking as her eyes seemed to be closing at times. The reflexes I worked now were: to stroke the brain and the spine several times and then flow the stroke from the spine to the plantar and dorsal areas so that the CNS throughout the body was continuing to calm, returned at the end to the diaphragm and Solar Plexus. The distressful crying had now stopped and only the occasional jerk of the body showed that relaxation and sleep were now encroaching on this little one; her face had lost the intense red, was now a baby pink; eyes were staying closed. Her feet and legs, now quite floppy, were warm instead of hot and in a relaxed state; the little hands were able to be released from clasping her mother’s necklace and not be woken, the body was FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 in a more natural sleeping state with slow, easy breathing. The reflexes worked, including the brain and spine, were now changed – placid not buzzing, cool not hot and wistful not screaming and standing out. The baby was now deeply asleep, the mother relieved, relaxed and so thankful to be once again holding her placid baby in her arms. After a short time I felt the babe was staying relaxed, sleeping well and able to return to the aircraft cot as the aircrew now needed the seats. Seven hours later she woke placidly to play with toys and toes as the aircraft started its descent. Although the treatment was within the darkness of the cabin and the feet were tiny, the minute reflex points within them of the Solar Plexus, adrenals, stomach and throat were easily located with the sides of the thumb. This digit was used so that the hand was enclosing each foot and used on the dorsal surface while the thumb came easily to the plantar. By intending the energy to these tiny points it gave added stimulation/relaxation and direction as well. No doubt some of the medication may have helped her to sleep, but the Reflexology administered certainly took her out of trauma, allowed relaxation and, therefore, sleep to take place and let the mother be more comfortable for the rest of the journey. Maternity Reflexology With Lyndall Mollart PART ONE: Dates yet to be finalised, possible April or June 2007 PART TWO: Sat/Sun 10/11 March 2007 Government Accredited Course $275.00 per Part or $440.00 entire course Located at: Reflexology Centre Australia 10 Wolff Street, Windaroo, Qld 4207 Phone: 07 3804 0128 CRANIOSACRAL SEMINAR IN PERTH Dr Martine Faurre Alderson will present workshops in Perth in September 2007. * Basic course * Advanced course September 7/8 September 9/10 For details please contact Brigitte Johnson on email [email protected] or telephone (08)9387 1305 13 Reflexology Association of Australia RAA CONFERENCE REFLEXION By Pauline Slyth , QLD It had everything….. Elephants feminin dolphins meerkats Tigers optus ad flirtologists lipstick munching who would have thought R’ologists could eat so much CAKE! Never mind the kilos of lipstick and e-motions are what drive us and we are all here to be ourselves believe in that connection with the divine in disguise happy clappy singing divine sparkling light lifting the room and the ‘ologists to be who they are but we are all one what is inside is outside and it is all connected and we are all connected and some of us know it already and the Universe is expanding and accelerating and some of us know it already. And we are connected by energy and it is energy that links us communication is energy and energy is communication and this is the strands the strings that connect us and energy is sound and energy is light and energy has frequency and resonance and vibration and we can choose love or fear strength or vulnerability and we are all blessed whether we like it or not. Perspective, perspective, unusual perspective what did you see? trigeminal nerve pain excruciating release and let go relief is in the EARS! who would believe it…wisdom of the auricles. Patterns repeated resonances throughout the body fundamental frequencies 1st resonance 2nd resonance 3rd resonance just like rainbows and light spectrums through crystal prisms not only one but many resonances throughout the body FEET hands ears meridians energy channels it is all there we already have all the answers out there in the Universe inside us all just connect and be in awareness without belief systems don’t confine your creativity live your life in comfort. Ortho-bionomy is a technical term for comfort ahh that feels better hmm I’ll have some more of that release and let go relief is in the comfort allow yourself and there is Nerve Reflexology it is taking off in Europe Denmark Belgium UK all happening very precise but it is also important to tune into intuition get the frequency that “invites you inside” that is where the healing occurs at the resonance of intention intensity energy in energy out what goes around comes around we are all going to be just f.i.n.e. well maybe if we live in truth…ooooh … that’s hard to do. 14 And ‘motions’ passed at the AGM all passed easily no resistance R’ologists know about constipation free flow no blockages. Ooops cheeky! Fight or flight oh no! there goes your adrenalin off the scale cholesterol and cortisone and look now your stress is in your hormones villi villi rushing rushing be present present yourself and time will allow for all possibilities especially if you have come from another land special dispensation allowed. We are alive online ‘thanks James’ you are doing a marvellous job linking us up ethereally grounded in electronic motherboard connections log-on post your comments communicate communicate there are endless possibilities the potential is there use it use it use it or lose it. Who was that guy ‘Ted’? tall handsome in a certain kind of way and a winner with the ladies that’s for sure dynamic in his presentation don’t forget the ‘chemistry’ it was there at the dancing energy transfer in the chemical connection it was there…anyone else see it? Pink T-shirts gorgeous!!! And the lovely lady who works with the children all success stories and the children already know the energy they feel the energy know the truth they are closer to the source not filled with blockages and belief systems open to experience and reaping the rewards of this beautiful gift we all have and blessed as we are to sit at the feet of all our clients and we sit there with respect and gratitude and the lovely Aunty sang the beautiful song at the end that just topped off the perfection of it all and she works with stones and she thanks her cells everyday for doing the work they do and she is connected to the energy of the Universe and knows truth. Enjoy the Goji difference Himalayan Goji™ Juice For further Information Glenda Hodge 07 3395 1906 www.energyforliving.com.au Order on line energyforliving.FreeLife.com FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia CASE STUDY – RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE By Beverley Mulcahy , WA Client: John Age: 53 Presenting Conditions: Ischaemic heart disease caused by high cholesterol and hypertension and also pterygium (bilateral). Disease Process: Ischaemic heart disease or coronary artery disease is a condition in which fatty deposits accumulate in the cells lining the wall of the coronary arteries. Two of the risk factors are high cholesterol and hypertension. Cholesterol is a vitally important substance which is used for building our cell membranes and producing several of our hormones. The liver normally makes all the cholesterol our body needs but cholesterol also enters our body from dietary sources and this is where we often overload our system, although there can be hereditary factors involved as well. When there is too much it builds up in the walls of our arteries and causes the arteries to harden, a process called atherosclerosis. This narrows the arteries causing blood pressure to rise which, in turn, forces materials such as cholesterol into the artery walls causing further narrowing. It is a dangerous cycle. When arteries supplying the brain are blocked, a stroke can result, and when blocked arteries are the ones which supply the heart, a heart attack can result (Uren & Collins, 2005). There are also external factors which can raise blood pressure such as stress from worry, emotional strain or constant tension. Combine these with regular pick me ups in the forms of coffee, alcohol and cigarettes and this will eventually throw the whole system off balance, physically and emotionally (Bovill, p76, 2000). Background: John is a bachelor who works in a busy and stressful occupation with a high level of responsibility and lots of travelling. He stated that he loved fatty foods such as lamb chops and is slightly overweight. He smokes, drinks alcohol and admits to being basically lazy. In 2004, following an angina attack, John had an angiogram which showed a partially (80%) blocked coronary artery. He then had a stent inserted to return blood flow to normal. John is on numerous medications to lower his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. He was unaware what his medications actually did, just trusted his doctor implicitly. At the time of the case study John had been on these medications for 15 months, he had made changes to his diet and decreased the amount of alcohol he consumed but had been unable to give up smoking. He is a heavy smoker. He had also started walking occasionally for exercise. The medications and lifestyle changes had lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels but they were still above the normal or desired level. John also suffers from an irritating scratchy feeling in his eyes from the pterygium and complained of small aches and pains which moved around his body as well as often feeling tired. Aims: The main aim of this case study was to bring John’s body back into a state of balance allowing major FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 organs to function at an optimum level. Hopefully, this would allow medications to work more efficiently and blood pressure and cholesterol levels could normalise. It was also to learn about this particular disease process as it has become more prevalent. Physical Observations of the Feet: Feet are quite pale in colour and skin is dry. The right big toe has a build up of bony tissue making it quite thick and inflexible. There are also deep cracks and calloused skin around the heart reflex area on the left foot. Feet are broad across which pronounces the shoulder reflex area. Reflex Areas Relating to Conditions: For the Ischaemic heart disease, treatments focussed on the heart reflex area which was worked thoroughly, through and around the callouses present here. To lessen the risk of further heart problems, reflex areas associated with high blood pressure were deemed very important. So focus was on the brain stem reflex as it contains the cardiovascular centre which regulates the rate and force of heartbeat and the diameter of blood vessels (Tortora, p231, 1997); the adrenal glands and kidneys because of the renin-angiotensin mechanism as a regulator of blood volume and thus blood pressure (p.305); and also the hypothalamus and adrenal medulla because of their regulation of homeostasis by releasing hormones which increase blood pressure by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels. This mechanism can become stuck when the body is under continual stress and always in fight-or-flight mode, so adrenal production needs normalising (Tortora, p307, 1997). For this reason the solar plexus reflex area is an important point to work thoroughly as relaxation is a key factor for people with high blood pressure (Kunz & Kunz, p147, 2003). The eye reflex points were worked to lessen the uncomfortable symptoms of pterygium. Linking methods were used with the heart and brain stem reflexes and also to balance each zone at the end of session. Although all the above reflex areas are important and were sensitive when worked with a feeling of congestion or graininess, when it comes to relaxation it is the whole treatment that gets results and returns the body to a balanced state where homeostasis can be maintained more easily. The Treatments: 8 treatments were given over a period of 3 months, from the 5/1/06 to the 30/3/06. Each week the same reflex areas asked for attention but progressively the congestion and sensitivity in each reflex area lessened with some clearing as they were worked. By the 4th treatment John was still making an effort with exercise, diet and decreasing alcohol and cigarettes and he stated that he was feeling better, sleeping better and his eyes were not bothering him as much. It felt like we were progressing. There was no major healing crisis, just slow and steady progress with a definite change in the feel of sensitive reflex areas. The right foot seemed to be clearing with more ease 11 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia EAR CANDLES STATE MATTERS I must begin my report by apologizing for not managing to get anything into the last edition of Footprints. Unfortunately time just got away from me after taking over as Chairperson in May. It has been a VERY busy time both with family matters and 100% bees wax & calico with Reflexology. In June we had the Everywoman Expo that took place here in Perth. We had a much smaller area allotted to us this time and it worked extremely well for us. We had a very successful Study Day in July down at Mandurah. This event takes place once a year there and, we hope, makes it easier for some of our south west members to attend. This year the topic was on understanding and managing spinal pain with seven speakers from relevant professions (Reflexology included) speaking about it. I am glad to report that, to date, it was our best attended yet. September was a busy month with the World Reflexology Week. Four of us took our message out into the Perth Cultural Centre courtyard and worked on a nice ‘tan’ whilst doing each others feet and informing the general public about Reflexology. We also had a meeting and Swap Day out at the Herdsman Wildlife Centre – the animals and birdlife were reasonably quiet - I think that the only wild ones there were us! October saw a flurry of activity as all had to be as upto-date as possible before a sizeable contingent of us made our way over to Adelaide for the conference. Congratulations and thank you Adelaide for a very wellrun conferencel. It was most enjoyable and your hospitality was wonderful. Box of 31 pairs = $124.00 excl GST or $4.00 per pair excl GST plus Freight: 1 box $15.00 - 4 boxes $15.00 To Order Why Karma Natural Health Products Office: 03 9787 5360 Mobile: 0405 13 23 43 Email: [email protected] 116 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza Vic 3930 10 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 We are now readying ourselves for the Kalparin Retreat weekend and the Conscious Living Expo which runs over four days. We will, hopefully, be able to let lots of people have a sample of how good Reflexology is and that they will then spread the word about us. These are just some of the items that we have been doing; there have of course been various courses, workshops and coffee discussion evenings, plus committee and other meetings to attend to. All in all, a Reflexologist’s life can never been seen as ‘dull’ and we are at least managing to have a variety of occasions to earn CPT points. As this will be the last FootPrints for the year, I would like, on behalf of the members of Western Australia, to wish everyone a Very Safe, Healthy and Joyful Christmas and New Year. Valerie Dewar FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Wow!! Wasn’t our National Conference 2006 Adelaide Festival of Feet exciting, challenging and full of fun? From the minute delegates stepped out of the lifts and saw those bright pink tops they must have felt excited. Our guest speakers International and National were interesting and great to listen to. They must have surely given us all some new tools to work with. It was good for all our committee members to see that all the hard work leading up to the Conference was well worthwhile. Yes South Australian members “you’ve done us proud”. Margaret Rowett The Tasmanian branch of the Association had a State Meeting at Helen's (President) in August. Helen provided us all with her usual delicious and healthy spread for lunch. There was an excellent talk from the proprietor of the Devonport Health Food Shop - all about the value of tissue salts. We had a number of State Members going to the National Reflexology Conference in Adelaide. We will hear how it all went in 2 weeks' time - Nov 12th - at the next meeting. This will be our Christmas breakup - it is early as it gets so hectic for everyone once December comes along! The Guest Speaker will be Ellen Allen, a local Naturopath who has studied the condition of ADHD extensively, recently publishing 2 books on this and other subjects. Membership numbers remain static. Mary Farr and Andrew Whitehead National Referral Service If you require a reflexologist in a particular area, town or state, the Reflexology Association Referal Service is able to assist. We can put you in touch with a qualified reflexologist in most states of Australia Phone: (0500) 502 250 Or visit our website at: www.reflexology.org.au 15 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia REIKI AND BEING STATE MATTERS Judith Hayman from Echolife was invited to speak at our branch meeting in October. Judith provided us with a wealth of information regarding the health benefits of nutritional supplements and lotions based on magnesium. The response from members was so great that I understand Judith is still receiving orders and sending out additional information to members. The recent introduction of Trade Tables at branch meetings was also very well received. October saw Margaret Meyer, a fellow reflexologist (and aromatherapist) display her wonderful range of aromatic skincare including homemade treatment products created from plant extracts and essential oils. September 06 was a busy month for Victorian volunteers with the successful promotion of the RAA at two separate events: Big Day Off 2 (Royal Womens’ Hospital) and Inaugural Palliative Care Nurses Australia Conference (Y Hotel). Reflexology was in high demand at both events with a multitude of positive comments and feedback from recipients. The Victorian committee recently appointed Jeanette Friend (PM) to oversee RAA Promotional Events/Volunteer Co-Ordination in Victoria. Jeanette is already preparing for a busy November with 2 RAA promotional events lined-up: the National Health Expo at which the RAA will have a designated stand and the Upstream Foundation’s Charity Walk. We also congratulate Jennifer Hill on her appointment to the National Committee and further to the recent AGM in Adelaide. We wish Jennifer all the best with her new role as Treasurer. To all Reflexologists Australia-wide, have a Merry Christmas and stay safe. Rachael Fabbro FACIAL REFLEXOLOGY AGAIN IN AUSTRALIA PERTH AUGUST 2007 MODULES 1,2 August 18-21 3,4 August 24-27 Modules 1,2 must be completed before 3,4. Each course 4 days BOOKING FORMS Contact [email protected] COMING TO SYDNEY Contact : Sue Ehinger 02 4976 3881 16 I have just got back from our October Board Meeting and the RAA Conference in Adelaide. It was an excellent Conference, very well organized and a great opportunity for us all to meet new friends from all over Australia (and 1 from New Zealand) and catch up with old ones. As my first Conference I wonder why I have never made a point of supporting my professional Association in this manner. I had the honour of meeting some wonderful people from our Association and the privilege of speaking with all our presenters both domestic and international. For information, practical skills, networking and a host of social reasons, surely the National Conference would have to rate as No.1. Which brings me back to State Matters and the fact that NSW are hosting the next Conference in 2008. We have a tough act to follow as I’m assured the last few Conferences were the best ever! Ideas and suggestions are already on the table and I’m sure quite a few of us are already excited at the prospect. We have our Library up and running and several books were borrowed at the last meeting. We are currently looking at borrowing on a broader scale by members outside of the Sydney metropolitan area as well. Any donations to our Library can be made at one of our monthly meetings or contact me on 0408-628212. Thank you to Russell McAlister from Reflexology World and those members who have already donated books and journals. Reflexology paths are something the NSW Committee would like to incorporate into various Councils. A few Councils have been approached with the idea of continuing Qld’s fine example. Coming up to the end of our first six months our Committee has settled in and is working well Jane Hodgett is doing a wonderful job organizing Practitioner Education and we are doing a workshop on Aromatherapy cream making in November. Please let Jane or a Committee member know if you have suggestions for Workshops or feedback on any previously held ones. Our newer members would have also heard the dulcet tones of Dot Stitt as she rings each new member to welcome them to the Association. Why not come to our next meeting and meet Dot in person, put a face to a voice as it were. We would love to see you. Kerrie Baldock Welcome to our new RAA Board member from Tasmania Hello and welcome to Sarah Blain as the elected Board member from the Tasmanian State Branch. On behalf of the Reflexology Association of Australia, we would like to welcome you aboard and look forward to working with you towards our goal of strengthening the vision of Reflexology in the future. Libby Stark – Vice President FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 most profound gift we can offer anyone is to be fully present with them, to see them as greater than their issues and diagnoses. In this way we are not reinforcing a person’s perceptions and projections. Such neutrality allows an opportunity to shift many things. It is only our perception that creates limitations. Energy is continually flowing through us, through our subtle anatomy, our meridians, through every atom of our being. Matter is composed of light and sound. All we are is energy, in constant vibration. With Reiki we are starting to work with frequency a little more consciously. Reiki is ‘taught’ by a series of attunements. These attunements don’t give us anything new or different but support an increased awareness of ourselves as energetic and spiritual beings. They provide an invitation for the heart chakra to open and to support the heart as a key balancing point of the body. This encourages our development of compassion and love and our ability to acknowledge the Oneness of being. The attunement process is not a magical ‘gift’ and doesn’t make a teacher ‘special’ in any way. All it is, is a reminder of who we really are. As we start to shift our focus from the ways we separate ourselves from other people and experiences, then automatically there is a greater flow of energy through our being. We are already connected, already at One with all, the only thing that alters is our awareness of it. This is the gift of the Reiki attunement. I think of it like a tool or a vehicle to enable us to get from A to B, to go from dualistic awareness and the way we clutch onto some things and reject others, to a space of recognising that there is nothing that we are not, that all exists in Unity. Meditation techniques and other spiritual practices are also just as effective. I think the reason why Reiki is so incredibly popular is because of the ease at which we can start to experience these insights. Reflexologists commonly tell me that after a Reiki attunement, they can sense the points more easily, which ones to stimulate longer or hold, that there’s a deeper ‘listening’ with the body, with a greater sense of connection between the feet points and body. Reiki practitioners usually say that they feel less tired when working and more energised at the end of the day. This is because energy is continually flowing through us. We are not using our own ‘reserves’. How Reflexologists incorporate Reiki into their treatments varies. The main thing to remember is that the energy flows automatically whenever we touch another with intent. There is no need to do a ‘special’ Reiki bit; however some practitioners hold the feet for a few minutes before starting the basic warm up and again at the end. Others do the reflexology session and then some hands on for a few minutes; on the belly or head. Many have reported back the greater depth of relaxation the client feels. If a client is agitated then placing hands on the forehead and occiput or belly or the ‘diaphragm’ point on the foot, supports someone to be more present FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 By Jacqui Bushell and centred. Reiki also aids pain relief. Many clients fall asleep or say they’ve never felt so relaxed or it’s the first time they’ve been without pain in ages. As we still ourselves and bring our focus to connecting with the heart, energy flows through the practitioner’s body, ‘topping them up’ then radiating through the auric field, through the hands and other chakras. It is not just the hands the energy flows through, although often they get very hot. The energy radiates through our heart and impacts on all our subtle anatomy. Working with Reiki is a spiritual practice, not just something I ‘do’ when clients come in. It is something I can practice throughout my day, a state of mindfulness. It is so easy to sit on my hill and meditate and feel virtuous, it’s another to get off my cushion and act within this state; when stressed, with clients, when cleaning my teeth, driving. When we are centred in the heart and choosing to Act from within this space it impacts on our whole environment and all within it. I like to do ‘community service’ work by walking down the street or in Coles in this space. My intention is that it be an offering of support for anyone. Practicing Reiki supports the development of us learning to be kinder, more loving, generous and hopefully wise. To understand that we are not all separate but exist in Unity. It has broadened my sense of being of service. As my own heart gradually chinks open a little further, then I recognise the levels to which all beings experience pain and suffering. All that any of us really want is to be happy. Reiki promotes alleviation of suffering not by addressing a ‘problem’ or by a ‘fix it’ approach, but by inviting us to recognise the True nature of reality, that we are all, always whole and don’t actually need to be ‘healed’. Our attitude and motivation are incredibly important. Every thought we have is generating pattern that is emitted into the world. Everything we do, every breath and thought has impact – and collective impact. We are accountable for what we’re choosing to communicate to another being. Working in this Reiki ‘space’ of openheartedness enables me to practice being more present with other people and not pull back from their pain, but be with them in a genuine and more neutral way. For me Reiki is about developing a fearless heart; a heart that doesn’t close down in any circumstances. So that I can be with anyone without withdrawing or pulling back from their suffering or from my own vulnerability or fear of overwhelm. Reiki teaches me how much support is available moment to moment. It’s never just ‘me’ but me plus all that is available. As I connect with this space it provides an invitation for others to tap into it as well. It’s a process of self empowerment. As you radiate joy and love it enables others to connect with their own joy, clarity, and love. For me, Reiki is Coming Home. 9 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia REIKI AND BEING STATE MATTERS By Jacqui Bushell The other day I was pondering the most ‘healing’ people I had ever met and I was wondering what it was that made being in their presence such a balm. There was Sister Mary Malone, the charge nurse on a children’s ward, another nurse - a gorgeous Creole woman who called everyone ‘honey chile’, the Dalai lama and a few others. What they all have in common is that being with them you feel totally safe – no matter what, that everything’s okay. They generate a feeling of spaciousness, warmth and nurturing – that I could be anyone or anything and their love and compassion would never waver for an instant; that they can see all of me and it is just fine. Where everything, no matter how frightening, can just Be and people can trust themselves and their feelings more. They reflect back, not just the parts of my being that I reveal, or my pain and my stories, but All of me. In such spaciousness much is possible; there is a lot of freedom to move. We don’t need to hold onto our beliefs so tightly, or our fears and anxieties, or insist we are right. All too often we just focus on the bits we don’t like of our being. They offer a gift of whole self. These people teach me the value of simply ‘being with’ someone. That nothing really needs to be done except seeing the person for who they really are and acknowledging our common humanity. Imagine the relief and freedom of being with someone who’s not judging us in any way, not making assumptions, not wanting anything. When I was ill for a few years I found being around most people exhausting and stressful. There was one woman I always felt good with and never drained or tired. I finally realised that it was because she never had any expectations of me or judgements, she never saw or responded to me as a ‘sick’ person. These people inspire me because they are so ‘real’. They seem to see the Truth of reality not just our facades and projections. Their hearts seem constantly open and not ‘pulling back’ or dodging issues. It’s the withdrawing or not seeing of all that people are, of limiting them with our perception that reinforces pain. Our attitude and presence is often more important than the modality we practise. I was 20 when I met Sister Mary back in the mid 80’s. She inspired me and triggered off years of questions asking: how can one stay in an open-hearted space without being overwhelmed by the suffering and pain of others? What is ‘helping’ and is what I’m doing actually ‘helping’? In 1991 I found my way to a Reiki workshop and felt that I had touched a way that could help me find some answers to those questions. Reiki is a form of spiritual healing. The word Reiki in Japanese simply means Universal or all pervading nature or ‘God’ force (Rei). ‘Ki’ represents the chi, prana or personal energy/vitality of the body. In simple terms it means the merging of spirit with matter, the manifestation of spirit in physical form. Reiki as a practice and philosophy was created by Dr Mikao Usui 8 in the early 1900’s in Japan. Combining different teachings and spiritual practices, Usui wanted people to be able to connect more with our true nature – that luminous being, the clear light nature of mind; to be able to acknowledge our Unity with all and deepen our connection with life. He wished for all beings to be happy and that people could be motivated by compassion to help reduce suffering of self and others. Mikao Usui wanted his teachings to be available for everyone and easily accessible, not limited to one particular spiritual tradition. Although there is a Buddhist basis to much of the Reiki philosophy, Mikao Usui drew upon his martial arts background (he was born into the Samurai class), as well as upon Shintoism, Buddhism and Shugendo, which is an amalgamation of ascetic aspects of Buddhism, shamanism and Shintoism. The aim of Reiki practice is to break down our old patterns of being and perceiving, to clear our obscurations to recognising the true nature of our being and that of the world around us. It is also an invitation for us to understand that healing need not be an externalised process we receive from a practitioner, but one that lies within all of us. The only ‘prerequisites’ for practising Reiki are a body, an intent and choosing to practice being within a heart space. In the many Reiki classes I have taught there has been at least one Reflexologist in nearly every one. While not a Reflexologist myself (although I did a course in the Ingham method many years ago), I really appreciate their presence due to the fact that they understand the importance of intent and focus. Reflexologists also know the importance and skill of ‘listening’ with the body, in a way beyond ears. As when working with points on the feet, when ‘doing’ Reiki our intent, attitude and motivation is pivotal. It is the guiding force of how we connect with another being, how we perceive them, the rapport we develop with them and it guides how well we ‘listen’ to their being. I like to think of practising Reiki not as ‘doing’ another modality but as a space of Being. As such, it enables us to more fully develop awareness of unconditional love and compassion. You don’t ‘do’ love, you are love. Unconditional love has no object. Such a space creates a profound invitation for us to recognise more of who we really are, the Truth of our Being, and this allows the potential for much movement and change. Hello to members around Australia. Our Qld State Branch has been quite active in this last quarter. Our monthly meetings have been focusing on an Educational content relating to Reflexology. In July, Sharon Stathis shared Auryvedic Reflexology with our Members. We saw some wonderful pictures of her travels involving her presentations around the world and introducing the method to our members. we were able to make a small profit. This is another example of our members getting the message out to the public. In August our Chairperson, Sue Moore, presented Reflexology and the Stroke Patient. Sue gave us an informative medical presentation of this condition and how she treated the rehabilitation of the patient with Reflexology. In November, there will be a Review of the SA. Conference by a Panel of Speakers. Libby Stark In September there was a combined presentation on Cystic Fibrosis by Beth Trickett, who presented the Medical history of Cystic Fibrosis, together with Libby Stark, who talked the members through a Reflexology treatment for this condition which included the latest knowledge of treatment from the Danish Reflexology. Three of our practitioners gave complimentary Reflexology treatments to a group of mothers of children with Cystic Fibrosis. This was well received. In October we had Jan Kiss with her presentation to the members on Foot Mobilization Exercises - together with the knowledge and awareness of the different muscles involved. She had the members up standing and taking part in these exercises!! World Reflexology Day for Qld.was Reflexology in the Park at Red Hill where the Reflexology Path meanders along the waterway. This was enjoyed by members of the public. 26 Qld. Members from around the State and as far north as Townsville, attended the Reflexology Conference in Adelaide and I am sure they came away with many inspirations and renewed enthusiasm for their profession. Life Memberships Congratulations to Marion Bond Sharon Stathis & Heather Edwards on your long awaited awards, granted at the 2006 Adelaide AGM New Technology Available 100% Safe Natural Mineral Detox Ask me why it is the biggest Breakthrough since Penicillin Some Qld members attended the Anatomy Exhibition from Germany which gave us a wonderful insight to the working of the human body. This left us with no doubt as to how Reflexology can be effective throughout the body. Removes heavy metals, toxins and other substances from the body. Results that give you energy and life force. Our State Branch has recently taken part in the Living Now Expo and thanks to many members taking part, for further information 0438 144 789 Contact Jenn Cooper Reiki is a way of connecting with the wisdom of the body. Reiki energy doesn’t ‘cure’ in and of itself, but supports the body’s inherent vitality and healing capability. The energy always flows to the cause. Often people will say ‘oh I can feel the energy in my knee’, when my hands are on their head or elsewhere. Sometimes it feels like there are ‘extra’ hands on their body. As practitioners we need to leave our expectations and assumptions at the door. It is up to us to decide what needs to be ‘done’ for or to a body. We don’t need to direct the energy flow. I leave that up to the person’s being and focus on being as present as possible and centred in a heart space. As we ‘be with’ a person and acknowledge them as whole just as they are, there is a great potential for movement. The FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 17 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia MEMBERSHIP MATTERS PREGNANCY OEDEMA, EMOTIONS AND REFLEXOLOGY By Jenn Cooper, Membership Administrator By Lyndall Mollart (RN. RM. Ma Mid. Dip. Reflexology) Oedema is a common and normal physiological symptom in late pregnancy.1-3 The incidence of dependent oedema in normal health pregnant women is reported to be 50-80% in the third trimester (last 12 weeks).1,4 Western texts believe that maternal age, parity and height do not have any effect on the incidence of oedema.4 described above. As a reflexologist, what I find very appropriate is women experience oedema more around their ankles, ball of the foot and the dorsal aspect distal end of the foot. These reflex zones correspond to the very vascular pregnant pelvis and the ‘growing uterus’, chest and developing breast tissue and indirect breast areas respectively. In the pregnancy context, dependent pedal oedema refers to the lower leg oedema of primary mechanical etiology. The medical explanation for leg and foot oedema in pregnancy is a result of the weight of the pregnant uterus which impedes venous return; prostaglandin-induced vascular relaxation; and reduced plasma colloid osmotic pressure.2,3 In addition, oestogen promotes sodium retention and increases mucopolysaccharide ground substance present in skin and subcutaneous tissue resulting in women during the last half of the pregnancy retaining more fluid in the body tissues.5 Although oedema in pregnancy alone is not dangerous, it can result in discomfort, feelings of heaviness, night cramps and painful paraesthesia.6 Usually, oedema resolves after the birth of the baby as the uterus returns to prepregnancy size and the hormones return to normal. So, why do some pregnant women have oedema and others do not if pregnancy hormones and all factors are the same? During my training, Susanne Enzer talked about the effects of stagnate or blocked emotions on our body. This information resonated through me as I was giving reflexology and talking to pregnant women who were experiencing moderate to severe oedema in their ankles and feet. From my midwifery clinical experience, women experiencing a viable pregnancy for the first time (pregnancy greater than 20 weeks gestation) known as primigravidas, seem more inclined to experience ankle and foot oedema in the last half of the pregnancy. My single-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT)7 recruited 74 women, of which 61% of women (45) were primgravida. I found it interesting that most of the mutipara women (women who had given birth before) recruited into the study, had experienced a previous traumatic or difficult pregnancy or labour. In the nonrandomised group of 20 women8 experiencing oedema in their feet and ankles, 70% were primigravida ie experiencing their first viable pregnancy. So that started me thinking - why do only some pregnant women experience oedema if pregnancy hormones and all factors are the same? Interestingly, women who have had no oedema or swelling during the pregnancy suddenly have very swollen feet after the birth. Why would that be when the factors that influence fluid retention are no longer current? I was unable to find any published research on this subject. Published studies have concentrated on researching strategies to decrease leg and foot oedema.8,9 Pregnancy is the time of greatest change in a woman’s life. A woman experiencing her first pregnancy may see pregnancy as a change in self-image, loss of old self and a testing of skills, maturity and strength of her relationship with her partner.11 With such enormous changes she may have feelings of vulnerability, fear and anxiety and these feelings may overwhelm her if unresolved. A woman experiencing her second or subsequent pregnancy may have unresolved issues or memories relating to a previous pregnancy or birth Martin Martin Martin Masadome Mathison Matthews McCarthy McGlinn Mchaileh McIntyre McKnight McRitchie Mendelsohn Micallef Millo Morley Smith Morrison Moss Mossman Murphy Murray Nakamura Newbery O' Keefe O' Neill Osler Pavey Pell Phang Probert Pun-Gribble MT ELIZA MT ELIZA RIVERWOOD NORTHCOTE MT ELIZA STANMORE ROZELLE MOORABBIN MILL PARK ASHGROVE MOUNT OMMANEY COORPAROO MERRICKS NORTH GEEBUNG OAKLEIGH SOUTH CANTERBURY GREENSBOROUGH KEW ST MARYS PICNIC POINT NAROOMA FLINDERS ISLAND BLACKBURN BEXLEY TEMPLESTOWE MARMION MORNINGSIDE GLEN WAVERLEY GOULBURN ALBANY WAYVILLE VIC VIC NSW VIC VIC NSW NSW VIC VIC QLD QLD QLD VIC QLD VIC VIC VIC NSW NSW NSW NSW TAS VIC NSW VIC WA QLD VIC NSW WA SA Deborah Natasha Kay Marita Linda Glenn Gail Terry Deborah Catherine Elizabeth Helen Debra Wendy Eb Tanya Bobbie Carmel Kerry Anne-Marie Karina Karen Laureen Maria Melinda Daren Dayna Josephine Pauline Carol Quigg Randall Redshaw Reynolds Robinson Rogers Rogerson Ryan Schmidt Shave Sherratt Sherwood Sinclair Skinner Smith Son Stanton Thorn Tier Tree Valko Van Der Wel Vanderwolf Veerasamy Watts-Bischof Weippert Willesee Williams Wilson Wilson ALEXANDRA HILLS COOGEE CURRUMBIN WATERS WANTIRNA GERRINGONG WILSON BLACKBURN SALISBURY EAST NAMBUCCA HEADS TAHMOOR AUSTRALIND SUBIACO DARDANUP TERRIGAL TOOWOOMBA PORT MELBOURNE ENMORE CHURCH PONT WINDAROO OTTOWAY CHERMSIDE NARANGBA WARWICK MILL PARK ALTONA MEADOWS RICHMOND GREENWOOD SPOTSWOOD SUNSHINE BEACH SOUTHPORT QLD NSW QLD VIC NSW WA VIC QLD NSW NSW WA WA WA NSW QLD VIC NSW NSW QLD SA QLD QLD QLD VIC VIC VIC WA VIC QLD QLD NATIONAL CONFERENCE The committee of South Australia thanks the 140 delegates for attending our Adelaide Festival of Feet Conference. As the Co-ordinator of the Conference I would like to thank everyone for their input, support and encouragement. This made my job less stressful over the past year. We received only 43% of the evaluation forms from the delegates who attended. All speakers were well received. It was great to have trade tables. Delegates were free to move around at breaks to network. There were several changes in the SA committee during 2005 and the venue had been decided on before I became involved. The conference committee delegates for October 2006 did the best we could to make the Adelaide Festival of Feet alive and friendly. As Vice Chair person for SA, I must say I am delighted to have several young members on our committee. “Never accept anything as dogma, allow the inner sense of knowledge to come forward in time and realise the answers for yourself” (Robert St John 1976 p5).10 Due to several delegates having to catch flights home on Sunday, the closing ceremony was brought forward. Having attended National Conferences for the past 12 years, I look forward to seeing you all again in Sydney 2008. Sue Ramsey Pregnancy oedema and reflex zones It is understandable that pregnant women’s ankles and feet will be swollen due to increased vascularity and fluid retention due to pregnancy hormones as 18 Diane Beverly Jane Rie Lynda Sonya Clare Karyl Georgette Linda Kate Alyson Rebecca Teresa Lisa Lewanna Bronwyn Kerry Christine Deborah Katie Chiharu Judy Barbara Janette Michelle Emma Sharon Daniel Melissa Pooney FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 7 Reflexology Association of Australia MEMBERSHIP MATTERS PREGNANCY OEDEMA, EMOTIONS AND REFLEXOLOGY By Jenn Cooper, Membership Administrator How wonderful to meet so many members at the recent National Conference in Adelaide. I thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of the SA committee and members. They did an amazing job organising the speakers and special events and workshops. Thanks to all the members who came up to me and introduced themselves. I can now put a face to a name. We have such a wonderful community of reflexologists and you really feel this when you attend the National Conferences. Qantas were wonderful allowing me to bring down two large bags of merchandise to the conference. We had the trade table at the conference and I am pleased to say we moved merchandise to the amount well over $2000.00. I certainly came home with very little after the polo shirts, receipt books and brochures were snapped up quickly. We hardly had time to set up and enthusiastic members were lining up to purchase a new shirt and get those brochures at the special conference price. The new polo shirts in navy and also white are so popular we have now run out of some sizes. We will be ordering again in the New Year so stay posted. We are planning on having a trade table at the International Conference in Cairns Qld in 2007. We need to plan early for this one - any ideas are very welcome. Email me on [email protected] Thanks to all the members this year that returned their renewal payments and CPT forms promptly. We had a fantastic response this year with membership returns and, of course, quite a few new members have joined since the graduations. We had a number of members ask about Direct Deposit for payment. We have looked into this and are happy to report that we will have this in place for next renewal. Just a reminder that if you have renewed your insurance or first aid recently we need a current copy kept on file. Please send this to the membership administration office, fax or email copy is fine. We are also pleased to report that all members will soon have access to the members only section of the website. Traditionally it has only been Professional Members that have had this privilege. We will be providing log in numbers in the New Year now to Intermediate Members and Associate Members. This will mean that all Associate Members will be given a Membership number. This number is only used for the purpose of website log in and access. Intermediate Members will be able to use their current number and post code for access. Please be patient with us as we implement this new system. 6 By Lyndall Mollart (RN. RM. Ma Mid. Dip. Reflexology) Welcome New Members We have had 121 members join since the start of 2006. I would like to take this opportunity to present them to you. Please make them feel welcome at your branch meetings. Name Wendy Antoinette Judy Sheila Sonia Colleen Laura Helen Anthony Susan Jayne Elicia Suzanne Cally Peta Naomi Susan Jan Joanne Michelle Jacqueline Robyn Rui Louise Amy Elizabeth Ingrid Rachael Debra George Helen Kim Glenda Sinead Jeanette Susanne Catherine Stephen Cait Sandra Marlene Louise David Janette Connie Trina Natalie Catherine Amanda Teresa Sherie Joyce Stephanie Helen Sacha Delphine Karen Bernadette Diana Surname Andrews Ardren Armstrong Attree Bailey Bendel Benson Biggins Biggs Borg Bowes Brennan Brill Bruer Butson Campanale Campbell Cardy Carson Casey Chambers Chau Chen Chick Cohen Cruickshank De Neve Deam DeAngelis Divisek Donovan Doran Duffy Finlay Friend Gersch Gladman Goldthorpe Gordon Greggor Griffiths Grills Grinblat Hamill Hardy Hide Hillier Home Isles James Johnson Joseph Kelly Kingston Langsford Lowry Lund Marsh Marshall Suburb BUNBURY ALBURY ALTONA BALD HILLS ALBANY CREEK MORNINGSIDE ST KILDA JINDALEE PORT MACQUARIE ALBANY CREEK HILLARYS WATSONIA BEROWRA HEIGHTS MARRICKVILLE MANLY MACLEOD CAULFIELD NORTH JOONDANNA CREMORNE UPPER KEDRON WYNNUM ST KILDA ESSENDON NORTH BONDI BALWYN BELMONT WHEELERS HILL WARRAGUL WINSTON HILLS EASTWOOD BULLI OAK FLATS DAISY HILL MUNDARING CAMBERWELL KAPUNDA FOOTSCRAY URBENVILLE BUNBURY PETRIE HERMIT PARK NORTH MELBOURNE ORMOND BOORAGOON MT LOW TERRIGAL CHITTAWAY POINT ERINA WARRAGUL QUAKERS HILL CLOVELLY PARK KEYSBOROUGH TAMARAMA HAWTHORN EAST QUAIRADING CHAPEL HILL CROYDON ENGADINE FRANKSTON Reflexology Association of Australia State WA NSW VIC QLD QLD QLD VIC QLD NSW QLD WA VIC NSW NSW NSW VIC VIC WA NSW QLD QLD VIC VIC NSW VIC VIC VIC VIC NSW NSW NSW NSW QLD WA VIC SA VIC NSW WA QLD QLD VIC VIC WA QLD NSW NSW NSW VIC NSW SA VIC NSW VIC WA QLD NSW NSW VIC FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 experience. These stagnant or unresolved emotions may explain why some pregnant women have oedema and some do not. Oedema and emotions Complementary therapies are based on an understanding of the interaction between body, mind and spirit, and recognition of each person as an individual in the wider context of the community.12. According to Oriental medicine, the causes of disease fall into three categories: internal (the emotions); external (the weather), and other causes such as germs or poisons, trauma, diet and the effects of drugs. Each of the emotions affects the harmony of particular organs. It is natural to feel sadness, anger, or joy when the occasion demands it, but it is harmful if an emotion such as anger or fear is harboured for years.13 Susanne Enzer explains that the metaphysical explanation for oedema is stagnant or unresolved emotions - “The effects of emotions have a correspondence in the fluids of the body ie blood, lymph, urine, sweat, semen and cerebro-spinal fluid which are reflected in the fluid of the feet. In nature, oceans and rivers mostly keep moving. If they are prevented from doing so then problems occur. The same applies to the body. Fluids must move. When they stagnate or move too fast problems occur” (Enzer 2000, p 2-8).14 So, I thought I would investigate this further. Chris Stormer suggested that oedema is “overburdened and filled with unresolved burdens that prove weighty and inhibitive. Needs to unshackle the self of perceived burdens” (Stormer p 29).15 Robert St John proposed if the swollen area “is a small one, look to the function of the reflex area and you will find that there is a element of ‘holding’ or sluggishness associated with it” (St John 1976 p 21).10 Annette Noontil 16 advocated that oedema relates to a “blockage of your energy flow in whatever area you have this accumulation of serous fluid. Your negative thinking could be thinking you were not good enough or not accepting yourself in some ways or thinking you cannot give out your skills” (Noontil 2004 p115). 16 Case study: Pregnancy, oedema and emotions During the randomised study, I provided reflexology for a woman, Lee (name changed) with a pregnancy history of three healthy girls and one stillbirth baby at 36 weeks gestation. Lee was in her mid-30’s and this pregnancy was a complete surprise to her and her husband as they had believed they had finished with childbearing with their girls now in their early teens! I find this not unusual – but that’s another story. Lee suddenly developed foot/ankle oedema at 32 weeks pregnancy. I discussed with her about the study and reflexology and she consented to participate in the study and come for weekly visits to the clinic. She was FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 randomly selected into the lymphatic reflexology technique (luckily or meant-to-be?). During the visits, we generally chatted about a variety of things including her previous pregnancies and experiences. At 36 weeks, I was surprised when Lee didn’t turn up for her reflexology visit, but I thought as it was around the time she had lost her previous baby, she may have decided to stay away. Lee came the next week and I asked her how she was feeling. She said she was now feeling great as she was now 37 weeks and the baby was going well - and her foot and ankle oedema had disappeared! But she was still pregnant! Lee still had all the pregnancy hormones, increase vascularity, growing uterus. So, what had changed? Lee had passed the milestone - the anniversary of her previous stillbirth at 36 week gestation - and the issue had resolved/dissolved and her emotions were flowing. Lee gave birth to healthy boy at full term. Reflexology for foot/ankle oedema and research The lymphatic reflexology technique as developed by Susanne Enzer can be used for specific conditions such as leg, foot and generalised oedema as it moves extravascular fluid without disturbing intravascular fluid.14 The lymphatic reflexology technique mimics the lymphatic drainage action of the body, ie. interstitial fluid moves from the lymphatic capillaries to the lymphatic veins, trunks and returns into the circulatory system at the subclavian vein.14 This technique was used with my RCT7 and the nonrandomised group8. Although in the RCT, reflexology techniques (lymphatic technique or relaxing techniques) were not statistically significant in decreasing foot and ankle measurements, the techniques were significant for women’s symptom relief with the lymphatic technique having the greater effect.7 In the non-randomised group, there was a statistical significant decrease in both ankle measurements after receiving lymphatic reflexology technique.8 It would be worthwhile to further investigate the effect of reflexology and discussion or reflexology alone, for oedema reduction and resolving emotional blockages. Is there a difference between left and fight feet? Okay, I love to look at every thing while I’m at it. Is there any difference between right and left foot swelling? Metaphysically, the right foot = masculine, energy outward, giving, aggressive, competitive and practical. The left foot = feminine, energy inward, receiving, responsive, co-operative and creative.14 In the RCT7, there was no difference in the size of the participant’s ankles, insteps and toe junctions* before receiving the intervention (rest or reflexology). On average the left ankle, right instep and left toe junction * was larger (cms) overall. Although not 19 Reflexology Association of Australia PREGNANCY OEDEMA, EMOTIONS AND REFLEXOLOGY By Lyndall Mollart (RN. RM. Ma Mid. Dip. Reflexology) statistically significant, there appeared to be a greater decrease in circumference of the left (feminine) ankle, instep and toe junction * after reflexology compared to the right (Table 1). Table 1. Circumference receiving reflexology measurements Left ankle Participants 54 Mean decrease 0.07 P value 0.21 Left instep 55 0.33 0.59 Left toe* 54 0.11 0.19 Right ankle 54 0.04 0.47 Right instep 55 0.05 0.44 Right toe* 54 0.09 0.07* after * = Distal end of the foot (metatarsal-phalange joint) In conclusion, I may not have come up with many answers but I hope I have made people think. Next time you provide reflexology and notice oedema, especially with women who are pregnant or given birth recently, inquire and delve into their feelings about pregnancy and birth or their previous experience – and see what emerges and possibly resolves. References • Enkin M., Keirse M., Renfrew M., and Neilsen J. 1995. A guide to effective care in pregnancy and childbirth, 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press. • Cunningham F., McDonald P., Gant N., et al. 1997. William’s Obstetrics, 20th ed., Prentice-Hill: Englewood Cliffs, NJ. • Reynolds D. 2003. Severe gestational oedema. Journal of Midwifery Women’s Health. 48:2:146-8. • Davison J.1997. Edema in pregnancy. Kidney International, 51;59; S9096. • Brown M and Gallery E. 1994. Volume homeostatic in normal pregnancy and pre-eclampsia: physiology and clinical implications. Bailliere’s Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology; 8;2;287-309. • Young, G. and Jewell, D. 1997. Interventions for varicosities and leg oedema in pregnancy (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 2, 1999. Oxford: Update Software. • Mollart L. 2003. Single-blind trial addressing the differential effects of two reflexology techniques versus rest, on ankle and foot oedema in late pregnancy. Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery, 9:203-8. • Mollart, L. 2005. Reflexology technique for ankle/foot oedema in late pregnancy, Reflexology World, Sept:6-9 • St John R. year unknown. Prenatal Therapy and the Retarded Child. • Katz V, Ryder R, Cefalo R, Carmichael S, Goolsby R. 1990. A comparison of bedrest and immersion for treating the edema of pregnancy. Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 75;2;147-51. • Mack S & Steele D. 2000. Complementary therapies for the relief of physical and emotional stress. In D Tiran & S Mack: Complementary therapies for pregnancy and childbirth, Bailliere Tindall: Edinburgh. (p 240- 67) • Tiran D. 2000. Incorporation of complementary therapies into maternity care. In D Tiran & S Mack: Complementary therapies for pregnancy and childbirth. 2nd ed. Baillere Tindall: Edinburgh. Chapter 1: p1-21. • Jarmey, C. Acupressure for common ailments: a gaia original. • Enzer S. 2000. Reflexology: A tool for Midwives. Soul to Sole Reflexology, Sydney. Australia. • Stormer C. 1995. Language of the feet: what feet can tell you. Hodder and Stoughton: London. • Noontil. A. 2003. The body is the barometer of the soul 2. Brumby Books: Victoria. BIOFLOW– CHANGING LIVES What is Magnotherapy? Magnotherapy is the application of a magnetic field to living tissue. 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Tel: 03 9417 5063 or 0411 594 333 E Mail: [email protected] Website coming soon. 20 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia WHAT HAS THE BOARD BEEN UP TO? By Emma Gierschick, President food stores. • We have had an article published in Natural Therapies Health Guide. • We are creating flyers and promotional material for World Reflexology Week. Website We have made the following upgrades to the website: • Research citations will shortly be available. • Easier access to Pat McLean (the research librarian) for documents. • All branch newsletters are now on the website. • A locum page for members to advertise if they are looking for a locum. • Free web link available for members. • Policies will shortly be available to download. • A survey of members will be available. • A full research data base will be available. • Introduction of access cards for all associate members so they can log on. • Question and Answers page of commonly asked questions is available. • The previously mentioned items on FootPrints will be available. Links with Members and other Associations The board is committed to developing strong links with all its members and also other associations. To this end we have organized or started the following: • Opening discussions with the AOR in the UK and NZ Reflexology Associations regarding reciprocal links for members. • Invited a representative from the New Zealand Association to join the Australian research committee to share ideas / plans and research. • The Board has been rotating the Board meetings around each state and inviting all members of that branch to join them for dinner prior to the Board meeting to be available to talk with and listen to everyone. Other Projects we have been Undertaking • Reviewing the constitution and by-laws to make them more workable So, as you can see, we have been fairly active in developing and strengthening our Association. To summarise this year: It has been challenging and frequently stressful, but also a period of incredible growth for our Association, for myself as President and for all my colleagues on the Board and our volunteers on branch committees. Speaking personally, I have found it an honour to work with everyone and be a part of the collective desire we all have to achieve excellence in the industry we love. FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 LETTER TO RAA MEMBERS Hi RAA Members, I have recently returned to New Zealand after attending your very successful bi-annual conference in Adelaide. When I decided to register I hoped that I would have an enjoyable and interesting time and make a few contacts within the Australian Association. I certainly achieved that and more! I would like to thank all the kind and thoughtful Reflexologists who were so friendly and welcoming to me. A special thank you to the Board Members who answered numerous questions about Reflexology in Australia and for sharing their knowledge and ideas. You are very fortunate to have such a fantastic group of people on your Board who are committed to doing the best for the members. I hope that we can work together perhaps on research projects or other initiatives to support Reflexology for everyone. We would warmly welcome any RAA members to come to the Reflexology New Zealand Annual Conference in Palmerston North in June 2007. We will advertise in the FootPrints March issue about future workshops and events in NZ. Thank you all for creating a special opportunity for me. Regards Steph Gowan Auckland, New Zealand Infant Massage Instructor 4 day Workshop Leading to certification with the International Assoc. of Infant Massage Call Glenda Chapman Phone: 02 43693 668 www.iaim.net The Team at FootPrints Wish All Our Members and NonMembers a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2007 5 Reflexology Association of Australia WHAT HAS THE BOARD BEEN UP TO? By Emma Gierschick, President Someone recently asked one of the directors – What do you do? So here is an overview of some of the things we have developed, introduced or are currently working on as a board since the AGM in 2005. Large Projects • We have completed the National health training package for Reflexology. • We have now got national insurance policy covering all members when they are representing the Association at RAA events. • We have joined the FNTT and will be pushing them to renew the lobbying of health funds on our behalf. Sara Higgins has also begun contacting the health funds again. • We have formed a new finance committee to review the current coding system. Membership Matters • We have invested heavily back into our Association. • We have a growth in membership numbers. • We are commencing exit interviews with members who haven’t renewed to find out why and to assist them as appropriate. • We will be acknowledging all life members and recipients of outstanding achievement awards by publishing their names in each FootPrints journal and on the website. • We have created an advice line for members to access should they need to discuss a treatment protocol with someone a little more experienced. • We are looking to develop our mentoring programme to help new members. • We have improved communication to members with minutes of meetings being more accessible and summaries of committee or general meetings being printed in each branch newsletter. Regional Members • We are looking at ways of providing more support for regional members and groups – and are definitely open to any suggestions. • We have started a billeting register to provide a bed for members travelling from regional areas to the city for training – we need more names of people willing to provide beds. • We are looking to tape speakers at meetings for members to borrow and listen to. FootPrints • We have a new FootPrints team. • We have increased advertising in the journal with a goal aim of making it pay for itself. • We have put old copies of FootPrints on the Web site. • We are adding the first couple of paragraphs of 4 articles of the latest edition on the website as a precursor to the mail out to generate interest. • We are listing the contents of all previous journals on the website so members can borrow old copies from their branch library if they don’t have a copy. • We are looking at moving towards colour covers. Merchandise • We have centralized our merchandise to Brisbane making it easier for members to access everything from one source. We have invested in storage facilities to store it. • We have invested by purchasing more stock items for members to buy. Branch Uniformity We are moving towards more branch uniformity with the following initiatives: • Developing or creating a branch library for branches to hire books out for members. • Standardizing yellow pages advertising. • Listing all meeting dates for all members, so if someone travels interstate they are able to visit another branch should they wish. • The Annual Student Welcome meeting has become national. • Regular communication and support takes place with all branch chairs. • Policies and procedures of roles and decisions are being developed and will shortly be available. • Inviting branches to have autonomy in local decisions. Promotions Regarding promotions we have done and are planning the following: • We have invested in promotional material by purchasing new freestanding banners for each branch to use at promotional events. • Interview / article going in the Body and Soul copy of the Sunday Herald Sun – not sure of the date yet. • Australian Unity are doing a mail out to 200,000 of their members with a summary of an article from the website about reflexology – “isn’t reflexology just a foot massage?’’ • We have a page on the Encyclopaedia of Associations website. • We have organized reciprocal advertising with Diversity magazine, Reflexology World and other overseas journals. • We are organizing reciprocal links with other associated websites. • We have had an article published in Options magazine – a free magazine available in all health FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Reflexology Association of Australia CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL TRAINING – INCEPTION AND HISTORY By Cherel Waters , NSW Continuing Professional Training (CPT) is a structured program first introduced by Reflexology Association of Australia State organisations for the further education of • Professional Reflexology practitioners. In May 1998 at the May meeting of State delegates of the Reflexology Association of Australia, the subject of CPT was first discussed as an idea to encourage members to keep up-to-date with new developments. A program for CPT was introduced in most states in July 1999, with members being required to accumulate points, complete validation slips and log cards. In this one bold move thus self-regulation and a professional level of practitioner was established. However, the CPT program was not uniform in all states and there was a general misunderstanding of CPT requirements, with reflexology practitioners varying interpretation of how points were accumulated and recorded. • • • • • for CPT points must be of a high standard and encompass reflexology-specific topics and other broad based topics Applicable to clinical practice and activities associated with managing a small business eg. Bookkeeping Provides for changes in members circumstances with an annual exemption to cover maternity leave, serious illness or compassionate grounds Financially viable so that cost will not inhibit participation by members Provides recognition of board and branch committee involvement Provides recognition of volunteer work and promotion of reflexology in the community Effectively managed and reviewed periodically with changes implemented in a timely manner With the NEW CPT program being implemented in July 2004 a Professional Member of RAA Limited is required to accumulate 20 CPT points per annum. One of the chief roles of CPT is to bridge the gap between student status and the skills and professional knowledge required in clinical practice. Reflexology is our core modality in which members are trained and in which members are required to update our skills. Selecting any of the first five activities listed on the program will meet this requirement. As long as part of the 20 CPT points include these reflexology specific activities, ie. Activities 1 - 5, then the balance can be gained in the other CPT activities, ie. Activities 6 – 11. Record keeping has been simplified - no endorsement of courses is necessary, and training records are now the sole responsibility of individual members. The member is only required to fill in the CPT form once a year, sign and date the declaration on the bottom of the form, and In July 2002, our six State organisations combined return it to the RAA Administrator with renewal of forces and the Reflexology Association of Australia membership. Limited (RAA Limited) was born. With the formation of a national body levels of membership were created will RAA Limited members can gain points through a wide CPT requirements for each level: range of activities in accordance with the CPT policy. Branch committees are actively engaged in the Associate No CPT Intermediate No CPT – but further education was organisation and promotion of workshops so members encouraged are provided with quality low cost CPT activities. CPT is vital for the ongoing upgrade of professional skills and Professional 25 units of CPT The CPT program continued in the above form with knowledge and the RAA CPT program is an expectation members continuing to accumulate annual CPT points. of professional life. In July 2001 a new CPT program was agreed on and implemented nationally, one further step closer to forming a National Body. This new program required members at Professional level to collect 25 CPT units in one year (one unit = 1 hour). The program was broken into two categories – Category 1 –10 points had to be obtained for study relating specifically to Reflexology practice; - Category 2 – the balance of 15 points to be obtained from attendance at RAA meetings, business study, public speaking, practicum exchange or holding an elected position on RAA Management committee. State branches started to be involved in organising CPT events by running workshops and organising participation in Expos such as Mind, Body, Spirit; AMA Health and other Natural Therapy Expos. Gaining CPT points was on everybody’s lips and was a much-talked about topic at meetings. Active lobbying began by State branches to the Board of Directors in October 2003, with requests to review and revise the program with the aim of simplifying what had become a nightmare for many practitioners. After much consultation a new and streamlined CPT program was developed which now has had more relevance to our Professional Practitioners with recognition of the diverse nature of running a professional practice. The RAA CPT Policy has been designed around the following principles: • Members are given broad latitude in the selection and design of their individual learning programs • Seminars, workshops and conferences that qualify FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Notice To All Presenters Of Workshops The New Year for 2007 is fast approaching. If you wish to be included in the CPT Calendar of Events please, plan ahead with your dates. The closing date for the quarterly issue is the 1st of the previous month, prior to publication. Place your paid advertisement in Foot Prints Your contact is Judee Hawkins Email: [email protected] Place your paid advertisement in your Branch Newsletter To be included in the CPT Calendar of Events Your contact is Libby Stark email: [email protected] Libby Stark – CPT Director 21 Reflexology Association of Australia SUMMARY OF OCTOBER BOARD MEETING 2007 CPT EDUCATION By Anne Young Members wishing to submit articles for publication of case studies, articles or reviews for State newsletters, FootPrints or other professional journals specifically related to Reflexology are encouraged to share your knowledge and experience with our members. The content required is: articles 950 words, book reviews 500 words. CPT points earned – 3 per article/limit 10 points. Date Presenter Libby Stark – CPT Co-ordinator Location Jan 4 & 5 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Basic Level Brisbane Jan 6 & 7 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology - Advanced Level Brisbane Jan 8 & 9 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Part 3 Brisbane Jan 11& 12 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Basic Level Sydney Jan 13& 14 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Advanced Level Sydney Sept 22 - 23 Dr. Martine FaureAlderson Cranio Sacral Reflexology – Part 3 Sydney REFLEXOLOGY RECLINER CHAIRS $250 Lightweight, 8 kg - available 3 different designs 125 kg recommended max weight . Easy to fold and carry Padded seat and headrest Original chair, made in France for over 50 years. $145 plus postage to anywhere in Australia (as above) (approx. $15 NSW Approx.$30 SA; VIC &QLD Approx.$60 WA; NT ) New Coast Recliner Chairs available in blue and green, Padded, canvas material, sturdy, 9kg, and tested for 160 kg weigh Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________ LA FUMA RECLINER - AZTEC $250 PLUS POST ______$250 or COAST RECLINER BLUE or GREEN - $145 PLUS POST _____$145 Post approx $15 in NSW; $30 in Vic Qld, SA; $60 WA & NT and $70 NZ (unless bulk of min 10) Carry bags $85 Carry bag with wheels $105 Postage: $10 Total: Finance Neither the Treasurer’s report nor the Auditor’s report were accepted by the Board at the meeting . It was believed that there were errors in the allocation of cost centres which needed to be corrected before it represented an accurate reflection of the day to day activities of the Association. After review and adjustment the Auditor’s report has since been passed by circulating resolution. The Finance Committee has been expanded to include the Treasurer, the Company Secretary and one other Director. This is currently Jennifer Hill, Cherel Sue Waters and Anne Young. Constitution A Review Committee to examine the Constitution has been formed. A thorough examination of the current Constitution and by-laws is to be undertaken. The Committee consists of Cherel Sue Waters, Company Secretary and Anne Young, Director (WA). Cherel Sue Waters was closely involved in the formulation of the original Constitution. Following the Board meeting, all the proposed changes to the Constitution were carried by the members at the Annual General Meeting by majority vote. Web Site • State newsletters are now available to all members online. • Locum listing for vacancies and work wanted is now available. • Members can add a link to their own web pages if desired. CPT Considerable work has gone into this area to make CPT requirements more clear to members. A document titled ‘Understanding your CPT Education’ will be posted on the web site and published in FootPrints. Health Training Package The CS&H Industry Skills Council has announced that the Health Training Package is due for roll out in March 2007. The Association will still be accepting graduates from existing schools under the current arrangements. FNTT The Board has decided to actively pursue health fund rebates for Reflexology through the auspices of the FNTT. February - April 2007 plus postage Name: __________________________________________________________ Phone:__________________________________ Appointment of Victorian Director Jennifer Hill was accepted as a second director from Victoria to replace Jo Impey who has resigned. Jennifer has been given the portfolio of Treasurer. REPORTS: Training Title La fuma recliner chairs for Reflexology Reflexology Association of Australia TOTAL $_________ $ _ _____ Continuing Education Seminars Energy Protection for Everyone Have you ever felt exhausted after a working day or experienced others' aches, pains and emotions? Have you ever helped a client and they have left feeling fantastic but you are weighed down and tired? In this practical workshop, learn how to energetically clear and protect yourself so you don’t become drained. Techniques for space clearing will also be discussed. Friday 2 February 9.30am - 4.30pm Jacqui Bushell $170 Creative Problem Solving for Health Practitioners An exciting one day workshop to empower health care practitioners to creatively solve client problems, in a collaborative way that promotes an environment of health and wellbeing. Topics include how to tap into your creative mind and turning practitioner ideas into client action. Saturday 21 April 9.30am - 4.30pm Barry Smith $155 Dynamic Communication Skills for Health Care Practitioners An empowering one day workshop to give health care practitioners the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate, influence and develop collaborative relationships with clients. Learn the vital skills of networking and memory enhancement to aid better communication. Sunday 22 April 9.30am - 4.30pm Barry Smith $155 Reflexology & Palliative Care This new module teaches students how to create treatment plans for clients in palliative care to ensure a more holistic approach and enhance the outcome of each reflexology session. Saturday 3 February 9.30am - 4.30pm Karel Smith $155 Download the 2007 program from www.naturecare.com.au Pay by cheque or money order (addressed to Brenda SARNO) Visa: _ _ _ _ _________________________ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Expiry Date_ _ _/_ __ Learning for life CR.CARD WILL BE DEPOSITED IN THE ACCOUNT OF “GOLDCRAFT” Name on Bankcard: _______________________Signature: _____________________________ Post to: BRENDA SARNO, Reflexologist, 2 Boonamin Road, PORT MACQUARIE 2444 AUST. TEL/FAX: ( 02) 65 82 1080. EMAIL: [email protected] 22 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 | FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 | 3 Reflexology Association of Australia Reflexology Association of Australia REFLEXOLOGY ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA LIMITED The Reflexology Association of Australia Limited was incorporated in 2002 as a company limited by guarantee (ACN: 101 412 319) STATE BRANCHES CONTACT HOTLINES Membership Administrator Jenn Cooper PO Box 253 Wynnum Central, QLD 4178 Phone: 07 3396 9001 Fax: 07 3393 5468 All membership enquiries and applications; changes of address Email: [email protected] NSW Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: QLD Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 3092, Norman Park, 4170 Susan Moore 07 3366 1603 Ian Gilbert 07 3843 1787 [email protected] SA Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 457, Kensington Park, 5068 Margaret Rowett 08 8753 4093 Harriot Sneyd 08 8373 2770 [email protected] TAS Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 3041 LDC Launceston 7250 Helen Clarke 03 6424 8111 Mary Farr 03 63317619 [email protected] VIC Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 5272, Mordialoc, 3195 Rachael Fabbro 03 9889 0453 Jennifer Hill 03 9842 9495 [email protected] WA Address: Chairperson: Phone: Secretary: Phone: Email: PO Box 1032, Leederville, 6901 Valerie Dewar 08 6293 1424 Lee Phillips 08 9335 7682 [email protected] Office Hours Mon, Tue, Thu and Fri — 9am - 1pm General Enquiries and Advice CPT Information Contact the representative in your state Practitioner Register Phone: 0500 502 250 Research Librarian Pat McLean Phone: 07 3344 2123 EDITOR’S CORNER Another year draws quickly to an end and its time to reflect on the year that was. 2006 saw a new editorial team come together and it has been a pleasure to work with such a professional team. Great job everyone!! To all the reflexologists who have made contributions to your journal, thank you. It is your time and effort to sit down and write these articles that helps our editoral team to present such a professional and quality journal. So anyone who feels the urge to put pen to paper, sit down and do so and we will publish it with pride. Special thanks to Emma whose confidence in me to perform the Editor role has meant a great deal. Thanks also to my team for their support and hard work. Have a safe and Merry Christmas. May the New Year be a prosperous one for all of us. Enjoy this special time with family, friends and those closest to you. See everyone in 2007. 2 PO Box 366, Cammeray, 2062 Melanie Parsons 02 9899 4116 Carmen Luz Guerin 02 9982 2821 [email protected] Oops - Our Sincere Apologies ARE YOU A STUDENT? The team at FootPrints would like to apologise to Russell McAllister for comments made in the September edition in the “Report from the New FootPrints Team”. FootPrints is looking for students undertaking training to submit articles for the “Still in Training” Section. It was Russell who was the founding editor of FootPrints which commenced production in 1991. He resigned in 1996 at which time Sue Ehinger and Graeme Murray took over the reins. We want to hear from YOU! Send your articles to Jan Cullen [email protected] FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 23 Reflexology Association of Australia FOOTPRINTS JOURNAL ISSN 1039 – 2092 Published by the Reflexology Association of Australia, Limited Editorial Team Contacts Guidelines for Articles Contributions of articles, case studies, book reviews, personal experiences and letters to the editor are welcome. The following guidelines will be helpful if you are planning an article, as they will make the editing and publishing process easier for all: 1. Articles can be chatty and informal, or more formal and educational. They must however be accurate, well researched and fully referenced (if applicable). 2. Articles that have not been booked by the editor for a specific issue will appear in an issue decided by the editors, as space and topic allow. To appear in a specific issue an article must be submitted for consideration up to 3 months in advance of the issue date. 3. Articles may be sent by email or on a floppy disc (IBM compatible in Text File or Word for Windows File) to the editor (see address above). Faxed articles are not acceptable as they do not scan well. Pictures can be sent as TIF files or JPG files. Please do NOT send PDF files. 4. If an article has been previously published, written permission from the author/other publication will be required. The editors must be informed if an article is currently under consideration by another publication. 5. Any graphics, diagrams, graphs and photographs that are not the work of the author must be accompanied by written permission by the original author for their use in FootPrints. 6. The editors reserve the right to make alterations to, or reject an article for publication. Where substantial changes have to be made, the editors will show the final copy to the author, time permitting. 7. Advertorials will not be accepted. Editor/Desktop Publishing Robyn Coslovich 2 Prince Crescent Seaford Vic 3198 Phone: (03) 9776 4992 Mobile: 0413 411 408 Email: [email protected] Assistant Editor Jan Cullen Phone: (02) 9296 3073 Mobile: 0417 283 203 Email: [email protected] Advertising Co-ordinator Judee Hawkins Mobile: 0412 187 238 Email: [email protected] Mailout Kerrie Baldock 1 Chaleyer Street, Rose Bay, NSW 2029 Phone: (02) 9371 4380 Please mail booked inserts to this address Advertising Policy ♦ As only a limited number of ADVERTISING PRICE INCREASE Inside front and Inside back covers – Enquiries to Judee Hawkins It has regrettably become necessary to increase the advertising charges in Footprints as follows: Display advertisements Full page 26 cm deep x 18 cm wide Half page 13 cm deep x 18 cm wide Quarter page 13 cm deep x 8.5 cm wide Eighth page 6.5 cm deep x 8.5 cm wide ♦ Inserts Current Price $200 per issue $110 per issue $ 60 per issue $ 40 per issue Effective 1.07.07 $250 per issue $137 per issue $ 75 per issue $ 50 per issue ♦ ♦ The new charges will take effect from and including the September 2007 issue. All rates include GST Members of the Reflexology Association of Australia receive a 10% discount on the above rates only. ♦ ♦ Per A4 sheet: to all States $200 - New Price Effective 1.07.07 - $250 to an individual State $0.50 per copy - New Price Effective 1.07.07 - $0.63 FootPrints is distributed to approximately 1,100 members Australia-wide All Enquiries Contact Advertising Co-ordinator: Judee Hawkins Email: [email protected] or Mobile: 0412 187 238. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ advertisements and inserts can be accepted it is advisable to book early. All advertisements must be booked well in advance with the Advertising Co-ordinator, Judee Hawkins, email [email protected] or Mobile: 0412 187 238. Print copy should be sent to the Advertising Co-ordinator (details above). Display advertisements must be submitted by the copy deadline (see below) . FootPrints is distributed at the end of the month of issue, i.e. March, June, September and December. All advertising must be paid for at the time of booking. All inserts must be booked with the Advertising Co-ordinator, and sent to Kerrie Baldock at 1 Chaleyer Street, Rose Bay, NSW, 2029, for inclusion in the journal 24 LETTER FROM THE BOARD Hi Everyone, Wow, what a conference we have just put on in Adelaide!!!!!! It was educational, inspiring, very well organized, relaxed and fun. South Australia only has a very small membership base, but you would never have believed it given the show they put on for us. It is almost sacrilege to pick out individuals, but a special mention has to go to Susan Jean Ramsey for guiding the conference ship safely into port and SA Chairperson Marg Rowett who, apart from her other duties, spent hours the day before the conference baking feet shaped biscuits as prizes. But thanks and appreciation has to go to every single member of the South Australian committee who worked tirelessly for many months preparing for the event and worked even harder over the weekend in their ‘hot pink’ t-shirts - and their constant smiles. Nothing was ever too much trouble and if things weren’t always going to plan behind the scenes, there was never hint of it shown. Well done everyone, you certainly did our Association proud!!!! Sometimes people think that conferences, learning or professionalism should be staid, strict and steady, but from my experience the more fun people have, the more relaxed they are and the easier the information sinks in. As for my own style, well those who have met me can see that leadership and professionalism does not have to be dry and quiet, things still get done with humour, (a bit of cheek – no one mention the balloons -) and enthusiasm as you will shortly read. At the AGM I read a list of the changes and developments we have undergone as an Association over the past 12 months and have included a summary in this edition of FootPrints. Even I was surprised at how much we have achieved and none of it, like our conference, would have been possible if not for our volunteers. A full copy of the minutes of the AGM and all reports will shortly be available on the website for members to download as part of our commitment to keeping everyone fully informed. I invite you to visit the site and print off your own copy. June Issue: May 1 December Issue: November 1 FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 Board of Directors 2006-2007 President & Public Relations Emma Gierschick (VIC) 03 9774 3776 [email protected] Vice President & CPT Libby Stark (QLD) 07 3376 2240 [email protected] Secretary & Footprints Advertising Judee Hawkins (NSW) 02 9836 0078 [email protected] Treasurer Jennifer Hill (VIC) 03 9842 9495 [email protected] Research Coordinator and Education Sara Higgins (QLD) 07 3901 6621 [email protected] Website James Flaxman (SA) 08 8333 0147 [email protected] At the AGM, a launch of all the new merchandise now available was given and judging by reported sales from Jenn Cooper, many members took advantage of the conference discounts. James Flaxman performed a demonstration of our website showing what you can find on it. We also had a presentation on the Health Training package. All the proposed constitutional changes were passed and Marion Bond (Vic), Sharon Stathis (Qld) and Heather Edwards (Qld) were all granted life membership to our Association for their unyielding hard work over many years. Publicity & Promotions Kerrie Baldock (NSW) 02) 9371 4380 [email protected] Unfortunately, only Heather was able to be present on the day to receive her certificate, as Sharon had other commitments and Marion had a fall in Adelaide the day before the conference, badly breaking her arm. She ended up in hospital preparing for surgery. I went to visit her and we arranged for everyone at the conference to sign a get well soon card. Our thoughts are with you Marion for a speedy recovery. FNTT Anne Young (WA) 0400 811 010 [email protected] The next AGM will be held in Cairns September 2007 just prior to the ICR conference, while our next Association conference will be held in Sydney in 2008. The conferences just seem to get better and better each time, so I am already looking forward to seeing what NSW will come up with. As promised, this edition will contain useful information for you regarding the history of CPT, an overview of the recent Board meeting and lots of other useful tit bits, which I am sure you will all find interesting. But we would be really interested to hear what you would like to see more of, what you think of FootPrints, what you think of the way the Association is moving – give us some feedback. We are definitely open to your thoughts and suggestions. Anyway, on that note I’d better dash. I fly to the UK in the morning to celebrate my father’s 70th birthday and haven’t fully unpacked from Adelaide yet!!!! Better dig out my hot water bottle and scarf!!!!- COPY DEADLINES March Issue: February 1 September Issue: August 1 Reflexology Association of Australia Director Sarah Blain (TAS) 0427 261 710 [email protected] December 2006. All Rights Reserved. The opinions expressed in this journal are of each author and not necessarily endorsed by the Reflexology Association of Australia. Advertisements are solely for the information of readers and are not endorsed by the Reflexology Association of Australia. On behalf of the Board, and our administration, I wish you all a fantastic Festive period, This Issue: and hope your New Year exceeds all your expectations. Front cover illustration courtesy Sue Thanks, Emma Gierschick Ehinger. FOOTPRINTS DECEMBER 2006 1