dedicated to professional standards

Dedicated to Professional Standards

Establ ished 1991

President: Alina Blakesley,

Boothbay Harbor, ME.

Volume 21 Winter 2011 Issue 1

A letter from MCR’s President:

Vice President: Wendy Decker,

Bath, ME.

Recording Secretary:

Linda Nickerson, Portland, ME.

Treasurer: June Atherton,

Blue Hill, ME.

Newsletter Editors:

Myra Achorn, Augusta, ME.

Wendy Decker, Bath, ME

Newsletter Distribution Myra Achorn, Augusta, ME.

Wendy Decker, Bath, ME.

Maine Council of Reflexologists

P. O. Box 5583

Augusta, Maine 04332

www.reflexologyofmaine.org

MCR Of f i cers

Inside this Issue:

Alina Blakesley

[email protected]

President’s letter .............................

Promoting Reflexology............ 2 &

Secretary’s Report ................... 4 -

News from Continuing Education.

Educational Opportunities..............

Financial Report ............................

Member-in-the-spotlight................

Food For Thought......... .................

What I learned about reflexology..

Hugging is Healthy ........................

Fund Raising Ideas ........................

Pay~Pal information.......................

Tips on marketing your business...

Reflexology Testimonials...............

YOUR PERSONAL INVITE.........Directions to May’s meeting...........

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7

8

9

9

10

11

12

12

13

13

14

15

16

16

Correspondence Secretary:

Sarah Filliter, Yarmouth, ME.

NEXT MEETING

May 14, 2011Saturday 9:30am-4pm

Here are some of the celebration happenings:

· A PowerPoint presentation and collage portraying our history

· A special dinner together at our May meeting

· Continuing Education program through a Skype session with experts from other

states.

· A 2-day workshop with Lisa Chan and a reflexology panel presentation to the

medical community in the Portland area

· A special statewide reflexology awareness campaign to tie in with the 5-year

study on Reflexology touting its benefits to women with breast cancer.

· Opportunity to participate in fundraisers such as the Dempsey Challenge and

the Tri-for-Maine Cure. And much more!

We continue to serve the needs of our members and look forward to another 20

years.

Together we can break down barriers to the medical establishment and be

recognized as a stand alone profession which has its place in the overall health

of our nation.

Come and envision the future of Reflexology!

Civic Center Inn

Augusta, Maine110 Community Drive

Because Susan Miller’s father recently passed

away, she has had to step down as MCR Vice-

President. Our deepest sympathies go out to Susan

during this difficult time. Many, many thanks to

you Susan, for all your work, time and efforts as

Vice-President the last 2-plus years! Wendy Decker

was appointed as Vice-President by the Board to

fill her position until end of term.

Let’s celebrate our 20th anniversary in a grand

style. We are planning special events for our May and fall

meetings as well as a stellar Continuing Education program in

Portland. We will keep you posted with updates on our website.

So keep in touch and attend. We would love to see everyone

and reconnect.

Wendy Decker

Calling all members of MCR! Let’s create a statewide buzz on cancer care and Reflexology. The

findings from Dr Wyatt’s 5-year study on benefits of Reflexology for women with breast cancer will be

published in major medical journals this May. We have an opportunity to use the study to promote

Reflexology to the medical community. Together we can create a tremendous impact through a MCR group

effort. Not only will it benefit your business but this campaign will get the word out that Reflexology can

assist in many beneficial ways.

Here is Our Strategy

1. A list of oncology departments, support groups, hospice centers, doctors, nurses who specialize in cancer

treatment will be available BY REGION on our website.

2. We will purchase major medical journals reporting on the study and post the articles related to the study

on our website to print out. They will also be available by request and at our meeting.

3. We will write a special press release to submit to your local paper. You can insert your name, business

information and add your own experiences to promote your services.

4. We are working to create or acquire a power point presentation focusing on the study and script will be

available for you to use.

5. A special handout on the study will be available.

6. We will contact newspapers, TV stations and hopefully attract reporters to cover the findings and

interview some of us who work with clients with cancer, survivors, and caregivers.

Here is how you can participate.

We will have time frame of May to October 2011 to focus on this campaign.

Contact the medical community - talk to a person, in-service director, doctor, or nurse. Your goal is to

present the benefits of Reflexology to the staff or others who are interested in the topic.

Personally hand the cancer study articles and your brochures to a staff person or leave them in the office.

Submit a press release to your local newspaper.

Give a free sessions at a hospice center or other venues e.g. Demspey Challenge fund-raiser (see page 13)

Write a short report on your experience that we can collate and include in the MCR newsletter and the

RAA. Magazine.

Article taken from Medical News Today at http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/31689.php

Researchers at Michigan State University are finding that many women who are receiving chemotherapy

while in the late stages of breast cancer are turning to a complementary therapy known as reflexology to

help them cope.

Campaign to Promote Reflexology to Cancer Community


In a pilot study, researchers from MSU’s College of Nursing tested three different complementary

therapies - reflexology, guided imagery and reminiscence therapy, in which women recall times in their

lives when they’ve met and overcome challenges. Of those three, reflexology proved to be the most

effective.

“Reflexology is the one people stuck with the most during the eight-week protocol,” said Gwen Wyatt,

a professor in MSU’s College of Nursing who headed the project. “It’s also the one that had the most

positive outcomes.”

Women who are receiving chemotherapy for late-stage breast cancer face myriad physical and emotional

issues. Reflexology - which is a specialized foot therapy that applies firm pressure to certain parts of the

sole of the foot - helps women adjust better to their treatment. Reflexology can be used to support patients

through treatment such as chemotherapy or for enhancing well-being for cancer-free individuals.

”We see things like a decrease in depression and anxiety, and improvements in spirituality and emotional

quality of life,” Wyatt said. “Overall, they have an improved quality of life.”

We don’t really have a Western, scientific way of testing how this works. The mechanism is not clearly

understood. But for us, we just measure the patient’s perception of change. Currently, there are no physi-

ological measures,” she said.

Wyatt stressed the reflexology and other similar therapies are strictly complementary, to be used in con-

junction with conventional health care.

”These supportive measures are intended to create a less stressful link for the patient to the treatment

center,” Wyatt said. “Instead of dreading the next cancer treatment, patients are able to focus on the

comfort measure that will be provided during treatment.”

Wyatt and colleagues are now embarking on a more detailed investigation into the value of reflexology in

treating late-stage breast cancer patients. Using a National Institutes of Health grant of more than $3

million, they will more closely examine the benefits of reflexology in a controlled study.

Women will be divided into three groups - one will receive reflexology for four weeks, one a “placebo”

foot massage for four weeks, and one will serve as a control group. Participants will be interviewed before

the study, immediately after the four weeks of therapy, and again two months later. This way the immediate

effects can be compared with more long-term benefits.

”Breast cancer can be a very difficult experience and advanced-stage disease even more so,” Wyatt said.

“This study will make the treatment journey more manageable and women may want to continue it after

cancer treatment to maintain a sense of well-being.”

Gwen Wyatt

[email protected]

517-432-5511

Michigan State University

http://www.msu.edu

Campaign to Promote Reflexology to Cancer Community - continued


News From the Continuing Education Committee

Thanks to all who traveled to the Winter Meeting with your chairs for trades and your inspirational

thoughts. Claire Guy treated us to a dynamic review of essential oils that can be used with clients during sessions.

The room was filled with faint smells of lemon and wintergreen to name a few. We were able to conduct 30 minute

exchanges with each other in our quiet and calm space of the Hampton Inn. We will make sure that this program of

exchanges will continue at least once a year and I will make sure we have plenty of time with each other. The group

also voted on some ideas for future programs including: Animal Reflexology, Meridians Review and a talk with a

Podiatrist to name a few.

• The afternoon program for the May meeting is “Research for Today’s Reflexologist”. We will be exploring

the field of conducting case studies vs research projects, and the need for all practitioners to take an interest

in this professional development component of our practice. We will have a guest speaker detailing the

“Wisconsin Breast Cancer Research Project’ via Skype and the potential skype informational presentation

from Kevin Kunz to speak to us about his suggestions for “Case Study Protocols.” We will also have hand-

outs for the program from various reflexology authorities, along with a local author on the subject on conducting

a sound, simple and effective case study.

• Our major Fall Workshop will be in the Portland area this October 22-23, with principal instructor for the

American Academy of Reflexology LISA CHAN. Her presentation is “Pathologies of the Hands and Feet” ,

a course she developed for Bill Flocco’s school. This will be a 2-day workshop for 12 continuing education

hours (ARCB certified). More information will be forthcoming and a registration form will be at the May

meeting. Cost will be $300, and $275 for early bird registrants by June 30th This is a great opportunity with

a dynamic speaker who makes this subject lively, interesting and in depth. Our Kristian Erico fund is a great

way for practitioners to access this workshop. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact me at 207-

229-7276 or email [email protected] .

• Respectfully submitted,

• Kate Winant

Maine Council of Reflexologists Page 8

The day ended with members exchanging 20 minute reflexology sessions.

The afternoon program began with the Kristen Erico

Education Fund Auction. Lynn Poor was the

auctioneer and together $86.00 was raised.

“Tea, Treats, and Testimony” an

introduction to using essential oils in

a reflexology session was presented

by Claire Guy.

MCR 2010 ~ 2011 Members 69

Educational OpportunitiesNext MCR meeting da te : May 14, 2011 in Augusta, at the Civic Center Inn.

Treat Your Feet~School of Reflexology Refresher Class: Sat. March 10th 9-4 or 5pm if needed $25.

For more info, call Myra at 623-4552. Class limited to 6 “Lets talk REFLEXOLOGY & HANDS ON”

ICR 13th Biennial Conference ~ Portugal, 2011 ~ www.reflexology-conference-icr2011-portugal.org


START SAVING TODAY

TURN YOUR CANS & BOTTLES

INTO CASHBring it to the next meeting.

Join in the FUN of the AUCTION,

From MCR Webmaster ~ Please check your information on the MCR website public listing of certified MCR

reflexologists. If you want your email listed , have any changes, or need passwords, please contact Wendy

Decker at 207-443-2572 or [email protected]

Mac MacDonald

Auctionare

New Members: Merrill B. Slaven Brache - 333 Back Ridge Rd., Orland, ME. 04472 ~ 469-0059

Polly Beck - 42 Union St., Belfast, ME. 04915 ~ 338-6995

Alta Gross - 545 Southern Bay Rd., Penobscot, ME. 04476 ~ 326-93272010 - 2011

RAA conference ~ Florida in May, 2012 ~ www.reflexology-usa.org

Change of Address: Michael Silvia,707 Hatchet Mt. Rd., Hope ME., 04047 ~ 207-542-6670

Change of e-mail: Susan Miller [email protected] Tenants Harbor, ME.

THE MANZANARES METHOD OF REFLEXOLOGY: Two days of class-Sat/Sun,

June 4-5, 2011, Comfort Inn at Revere Beach, 85 American Legion Hwy., Revere, MA 02151. Tuition is

$350 per person, offers 16 ARCB-CEUs and we need 35 people to commit in order to proceed. We are polling

for interest . Contact Diane Wedge at [email protected] or call 508-728-8277

The curriculum is based on Dr. Manzanares’ original goals for scientific research in reflexology: to

validate a mechanism (how it works), to develop accurate maps of the foot-to-body connection and to show

efficacy of specific protocols for health conditions and disease.

Newly Certified: Claudia Viviana Salas Lyman - 91 Gage St., Augusta, ME. 04330 ~ 242-0926

July 1st-June 30th

MCR Fall meeting da te : October 8, 2011 Ellsworth, ME. (Hospice House ?)

Newly ARCB Certified: Claire Guy, of Winthrop 441-5670 & Linda Nickerson of Portland 939-6656

Reflexions, Etc., upcoming (February and March) course in Hand Reflexology.contact Connie Hubley at 377-3338

Afternoon Program: GUEST SPEAKERS Attend these meetings and earn 2 CEU’s

Lone Sorenson’s Facial Reflexology Modules 1 & 2, Also Japanese Cosmolift Portland, Maine

March 5th-8th (Sat-Tuesday) 28CE/NCBTMB/ARCB Instructor: Katherine Lee Reece [email protected]

Member-in-the-spotlight ~ June Atherton


Life before I became a reflexologist: I had moved home from CA in 1980 with two children to work at the local drug

store for 7 years... Newly divorced and needing health insurance- I went to work at the local bank—Bar Harbor Bank &

Trust. In the 24 years at the bank, I have been a teller, moved to being a certified teller, and finally to the Customer

Service Rep where I have seen many customers in high stress. Being a person who wants to serve others and help to

lighten their pain—there must be something out there to help everyone in need of lightening their stress level.

In 2000-2001 the bank had upper management turnover and a lot of changes were taking place. I was working at a

greenhouse in the spring and summer on the weekend for extra money. There was so much stress and unhappiness in

these work places; I wanted something to HELP people to relax and be at peace. My daughter’s first baby was coming

and her feet were giving her problems. At the same time, my Mom’s Polio was starting to act up, so her feet were an issue

too. After talking with Myra, I knew that I wanted to become a reflexologist and help people’s feet to feel better. What

a wonderful part time job to help people to feel GREAT!

Two years after becoming a certified reflexologist—I took the test to become ARCB certified. What a test… and then to do

90 more sessions in their format!! Well on Jan. 8, 2003 —the best letter in the mail came —I had passed and was ARCB

certified. Why, you ask, would I do that—Well I went to The RAA conference in Rhode Island; My First RAA meeting and

have not missed one so far. The question about licensing came up and went away and then back at each conference. I was

new at the profession and was hoping that if we had to become licensed that the powers-to-be would grandmother all ARCB

certified members and not make us take another test for licensing. The other reason was to be more accountable to my

clients—to be both ARCB and school certified and a member of the national organization—they would respect and honor

my services.

I feel if you are working in a field —you should belong to the State, & National organizations. Greater the number, the

more power, and knowledge comes to all of us.

What I like about MCR and meetings is the energy and love that comes from the wonderful group of Great healers. I love

the sharing of knowledge, the workshops and having my feet worked on in the afternoon. I have been a member since

2001. I also belong to RAA & ARCB associations.

What is my practice like? I work from home, make house calls, have foot parties. I have sessions Monday-Friday at night

after work and all day Saturdays. In the winter, sometimes on Sunday, if there is a storm. This is my part time job?

Sounds like reflexology is more to me.

I love to try different styles of reflexology—I use warm stones between the toes, chi Reflexology (Moss Arnold), Vertical

reflexology (Lynne Booth) and foot reading (Jane Sheehan), just to name some. There are a lot of great styles out there;

each has great points (more tools for my toolbox). You need to have an open mind and try different styles and use the items

from each style that fit you. My hands guide me into the style that my client needs at that session. Each session is different

as each reflexologist is, but the client comes away with the same relaxation, lower stress, and a peaceful feeling.

What workshops have I attended that I loved the most? At the RAA conference in AZ—I went to a workshop given by Moss

Arnold on CHI Reflexology—It was great/he was great. Lynne Booth’s workshop was great too. I have been to many

workshops and the more hands-on the better. The openness of the teacher to pass on their love of reflexology is so important

to me. We each learn in different ways, but to pass the love of knowledge on is so important to ones who starting out now.

I would love to learn more about meridians and pet reflexology would be fun to do. I am open to anything to do with the

field of Reflexology and the business that goes with it.

Continues on page 11

I was certified as a reflexologist on 10/19/2001. I went to Treat Your Feet School of Reflexology—

the one-and-only Myra Achorn of Augusta, ME. I found her in the Maine Wellness Paper at the Blue

Hill Food Co-op. I was talking to my Mom and asked her what she would think if I took the class.

Her answer blew me away—”that would be a great thing to do and I will back you with the cost of the

class”. I jumped at the offer and off I went to start the class in FEB 2001.


Submitted by Wendy Decker

Remember....Do not eat when you are emotionally upset, stressed, or after a hard workout....Eat only when hungry and stop

before you are full....Do not eat foods that are too hot or too cold; they can damage the enzymes necessary for proper

digestion. Room temperature is optimum....Drink little or no liquid during meals; it dilutes digestive juices and impairs

digestion....Always avoid refined, canned, fried, and processed foods....Learning to combine foods properly is not just a

passing trend. The principles of proper food combining are scientific, biochemical fasts of life....Health is wealth! This

cannot be emphasized enough. If we do not have our health, nothing else is going to matter....A positive and loving attitude

towards yourself, others, and life, along with a healthy diet, is the ultimate combination for a long, joyous and productive life.

Why should we want to give any attention at all to the way we combine the various foods we eat? The answer to these

questions is quite simple. Our digestive tract is not designed to digest the complex assortment of foods that most of us

combine together without discrimination.

There are very important reasons for learning to combine your foods correctly. Before the foods we eat can be absorbed though

the intestinal tract and transported to the cells of our body (via the bloodstream), they must first be broken down into simpler

biochemical forms. The key components necessary for this process are called enzymes.

Enzymes are the active elements in the digestive juices responsible for the proper chemical breakdown and digestion of our

food. These enzymes have specialized functions and definite limits in their capabilities. Different digestive enzymes are

secreted for digesting specific types of food. For example, an enzyme that helps digest fats will not break down protein or

carbohydrates (starches). Likewise, an enzyme that digests carbohydrates will not work on fats or protein. The process the

body uses for the digestion of proteins is different from the process used for the digestion of carbohydrates and starches.

By understanding that our digestive enzymes have specialized functions and biochemical limitations, it becomes obvious that

our systems are not designed to digest numerous types of foods at the same time improperly combined foods are poorly

digested, and produce toxic metabolic by-products.

Although changing our dietary habits can present a challenge, the rewards of vitality, health and well-being are definitely worth

the effort. There are remarkable benefits to be gained, physically, emotionally, and mentally, when we choose to cooperate

with our body’s biological capabilities and follow the principles of proper food combining.

I love to cook and eat; to garden is my way to get grounded and back to mother earth. Sewing, kayaking, camping, cross country

skiing, being out of doors are a few of my favorite things to do. But best of all—being with the grand kids and family.

What do I like to do for fun? Now that is a hard one to answer—I enjoy doing so much and if I enjoy it —it is fun, so life in

general is what I do for fun and I have one good old belly laugh each day and more if need be.

For my own health, I try to eat well, get a lot of fresh air, laugh a lot, and I have polarity each month from a dear friend.

Eunice Ingham wanted reflexology to be household word, she wanted to pass her knowledge on for all to use as part of their

health program. Eunice was a professional, but she knew that Reflexology should be open to the lay person. Eunice went out

into the public with her teaching. I see MCR as the driving force in educating the members with great workshops and the

public with a strong outreach program with many members participating. To become a part of the medical profession and to

make reflexology a strong profession—licensing may be in the future. I have mixed feelings with this- for I want the public to

have a say in their own health care and at an affordable cost, which reflexology is the great way to do this. Reflexologists need

to be trained, certified, have affordable insurance, the respect of the medical profession and our own profession. Will licensing

do this? I don’t know. Cost may become an issue but can we afford the cost not to do the right thing for our clients and general

public? MCR will need to be on top of this movement.

Member-in-the-spotlight ~ June Atherton ~ continued

Food For Thought ~ Just A Reminder


Come Help US Celebrate!This year marks the 20th anniversary of MCR as an entity!

Hugging is healthy: It helps the

body’s immune system, it keeps

you healthier, it cures depression,

it reduces stress, it induces sleep,

it’s invigorating, it’s rejuvenating,

it has no unpleasant side effects

and hugging is nothing less than

a miracle drug.

Hugging is all natural: It is

organic, naturally sweet, no

pesticides, no preservatives, no

artificial ingredients and 100

percent wholesome.

Hugging is practically perfect:

There are no movable parts, no

batteries to wear out, no periodic

checkups, low energy

consumption, high energy yield,

inflation-proof, non-fattening, no

monthly payments, no insurance

requirements, theft-proof, non-

taxable, non-polluting and of

course fully returnable.

* SEE YOU IN MAY *

IN AUGUSTA

It was especially interesting to me to learn that reflexology has been around for a very long time. The art of

reflexology begins in Egypt; with evidence of a wall painting in the tomb of Ankhmahor and moves forward to

Europe, and then advances in science though-out the years. Fascinatingly, this foot work developed in many cultures;

like in China and India, and was also found in Buddhism; and the practices of this holistic science got enriched

with time. Being from Argentina I can understand the difference in cultures and yet reflexology spread almost like

a plague, but a good one; the kind that makes people feel good and relax; and not only here in the U.S. and in

Argentina, but in many places around the world, despite the cultural differences.

The Art of Reflexology is the understanding that healing takes place when there is “homeostasis, a balance between

the body and its environment, and a balance between the individual, his body, and his personal relationships.” In other

words, reflexology not only depends on the science (zone therapy, nerve pathways and the physiology of the human

body) but also on the willingness of the client to take responsibility of his own health and make some psychological

and physiological changes, if necessary. The body, mind and spirit are interconnected and balance between these

three is vital to being healthy. This is also true for the practitioner letting the body free itself of disturbed energy.

Today, the increasingly rapid lifestyle of this modern day (which develops stress in people) creates a rising interest in

complementary health practices. As a result, reflexology is quickly being embraced for enhancing health, and relaxation.

I understand now, that I not only do I need to know how to locate the specific reflex areas on the feet and the

corresponding systems, organs and glands, BUT also know that we are energy distributed differently and if there is

an excess somewhere there will be a corresponding deficiency somewhere else. By balancing the energy, reflexology

not only relieves physical problems, but it clears out emotional blocks as well. I have learned that reflexology is a

safe, easy, non-invasive and beneficial method of treatment that can help you take responsibility for and become

more involved with your health. Claudia Viviana Salas Lyman

A book report on “Art, Science & History” by Christine Issel, written from the perspective of

Claudia Viviana Salas Lyman, originally from Argentina, and a former client of Susan Moulton

and student/graduate of Treat Your Feet ~ School of Reflexology.

Reading the book “Art, Science & History,” written by Christine Issel, broadened my

understanding and practice of reflexology through the different cultures and history of reflexology;

the quest for mental, spiritual, and physical balance; the benefits it brings on the day to day

basis not only to the client health but also to the practitioner.

YOU are invited to stay

after the meeting for

diner out in Augusta to

Celebrate MCR’s

20th.

PAY PAL ~ PAYMENTS ~ MADE FROM ON-LINE SERVICES OR PRODUCTS

I have been a user of PayPal since May 6, 2002. I have NEVER had any trouble with security. My transfer of Funds

to businesses I have purchased from have gone through smoothly. I had one business that did not send the item I paid for

and PayPal researched it and returned my money to me. They are a safe and reliable place to do business and I would

recommend them to you wholeheartedly as a purchaser. I have never used them as a seller. Lynn I. Poor

Pay Pal services from a banker’s view point: Think of Pay Pal as a middle man of the internet market place. It is my

understanding that the merchant takes from his Pay Pal account the funds that the customer places in Pay Pal account; there

for each party’s account info is safe. This is great as long as the individual uses their DEBIT or CREDIT card and not the

checking account number. Why you ask? If a fraud issue takes place—the bank only needs to close the card, not the whole

checking account. Pay Pal will do a very small withdrawal and deposit to test the card number. Once that test has been

done, the Pay Pal account is up and going from the Banks view point. The fees that Pay Pal charges and ease of set up can

be found on the Pay Pal website for yourself. Will the cost out weigh the income—new clients, gift coupons, increase in

your number of clients?? That is up to the individual reflexologist. The choices we make to do business in this high tech

world. I would also suggest, if you use Pay Pal a lot and you have concerns and if your bank has a free checking account—

open one just for your Pay Pal account, keep a low balance in it for that use only. Transfer the funds over to your business

account as needed. Again, I would like to suggest, you use a business account and not your personal account—basically

keep business and personal funds separate. It is easier at Tax time. That way you are able to track the transactions, and see

if the income is there and not mixing items in with your personal money. I feel it is safe—but Try it –you may like it. If you

have a website, this may help your business. I, myself, have not gone this path—no need to yet.

The Dempsey Challenge ~ Saturday and Sunday, October 8th and 9th. We have our MCR meeting on Saturday

so we could only participate on Sunday the 9th. We could set up under the tent around 9am and volunteering

until appox. 4 pm. Donations to be given to the Dempsey Challenge Fund-raiser.

Safe Voices (formerly known as AWAP-Abused Woman’s Advocacy Project) Fund-raising Walk Reflexology

under the tent Saturday, May 14th-set up around 9 am until about 2 pm. Donations to be given to the fund-raiser.

Please contact Lynn I. Poor at [email protected] if you wish to participate in either event.

Please notify Lynn as soon as possible, especially for the walk in May so she can coordinate with the leaders of

the events. She looks forward to having you join her at these two wonderful events in Lewiston to help get the

word out about Reflexology and to help two wonderful causes in the area. (207-330-0326)

Raising Awareness About Reflexology

June Atherton, CSR @ Bar Harbor Bank & Trust by day and Happy Feet Reflexology by night.

Swim (1/3 mile): Starting on the beach at Spring Point Head Light, athletes will do a counterclockwise triangular swim

in a protected ocean cove that finishes on the very same beach. Bike (15 miles): The bike loop will take you a gently

rolling course through portions of South Portland and Cape Elizabeth. Run (3.0 miles): This loop is arguably the most

amazing tri runs in all of New England! Contact Kate Winant at [email protected] or call 229-7276

“MCR Happy Feet Team” made it into the TRI for The Cure.” We will be looking to raise $350 in

pledges for Breast Cancer Research!...Yahoo!! http://mainetriforacure.org About the Course


july

2

PayPal: The nice part about Paypal is that they handle all credit cards and banking, too, so the customer gets to choose

how they pay you, they don’t have to have a PayPal account and the money simply goes into your Paypal account which

earns interest. A simple withdrawal transaction gets it transferred to your own bank account(s). www.PayPal.com ~

Cell Charge: ABMP offers Cell Charge on their website. Cell Charge - a company that allows you to process credit

cards via your cell phone. It is fairly inexpensive to setup and does not require you to buy any expensive equipment –

(http://www.cellcharge.com/cellcharge_processing.asp?source=48722 ~ Square Up: If you are an iPhone user I

recommend: www.squareup.com They send you a cube that plugs into the top of your iPhone (works on Droid Phones

too). They charge 2.75% plus .15 per transaction. You can also process charges without swiping the card at 3% plus .15

per transaction. Since I don’t process many charges it’s pretty convenient as it’s then deposited directly into my business

account within a day or two.

MCR’s Happy Feet Team so far: Alina Blakesley ~ Sarah Filiter ~ Kate Winant

After a few requests from clients for charge cards, I have done some research into affordable possibilities. I

have chosen PayPal (at this time, still working on setting it up) Connie Hubley

I posed my question to a group of ABMP therapists online and came up with 3 options.

Suggested Activities & Events for

Public Awareness & Business Development

Demonstrations Set up a small booth or

work area and give 15 to 20 minute

sessions in places like:

health food stores

health and fitness clubs

farmer’s markets,

shopping centers

book stores

coffee shops

Pre-arrange special sessions of 10-30

minutes with local groups, organizations,

businesses and events in advance, like the

following:

nursing homes

police, fireman or rescue teams

conventions groups

women’s or homeless shelters

hospices for the terminally ill

veteran’s hospitals

spas, resorts or hotels

bed & breakfasts

corporate business (for employees)

college campuses

local tourist attractions

fund-raisers (races, walk-a-thons)

cultural events

local mum’s clubs, etc

Have an Open House Day to show the

public your office. Have some healthy food

& beverages, plenty of literature on

reflexology and your practice, and give out

discount coupons.

Give a Seminar on reflexology to educate

the public about the benefits. Hand out

flyers and give a hands on demonstration.

Athletic Fund-raisers: Volunteer your

services for the athletes that participate in

charity events like road races, bike races

and walk-a-thons.

Senior Citizens: Volunteer your services

at senior centers, assisted living facilities

and nursing homes.

Environmental Support: Donate a

percentage of your income and solicit funds

to benefit a local environmental cause.

Local Charities: Look for local events to

promote awareness of the healthy benefits

of reflexology. Offer your services for free

to local charities, donate proceeds or give

relief to care givers.

Referral Special: Offer client incentives to

refer new clients during World Reflexology

Week.

Collect donations: Coordinate volunteer

efforts to collect donations and useful items

for shelters.

Give away inexpensive marketing items that

are related to reflexology and have your

business information (name, phone,

address) on it.

Use this as guide to activities & events to help promote your reflexology business.


Reprinted from ICR 2001 Vol 11#2

Celebrating MCR’s 20th Anniversary with Client’s TestimonialsPlease Send in Yours

I have been seeing a reflexologist since 1996 where I was employed in a job that required me to stand on my feet sometimes up to 18 hours a

day. She was able to give me relief to my tired feet and while doing the same, she helped my whole body feel better. She has hands that are

so powerful that you can not hide any aches or pains from her as she has the ability to be firm enough to do deep penetration when necessary

and even though I didn’t realize how badly I needed the relief she knew when and where to find it for me.

In 2000 my new job required me to sit for the course of the day so my whole body went through a change and with her help she assisted me

in circulation and upper body strains which I currently need as my present job is a desk job. She has also touched many of my extended

family and friends over the years and many are still clients today.

She also comes to my home to assist my mother-in-law, who is 85, and does her feet and legs to help with her circulation. With my mother-

in-law she needed to be gentle due to brittle bones but firm enough to bring relief. My mother-in-law is starting her second year of once-a-

month visits from her and I look forward to the same every-other-week.

My reflexologist is a very caring, giving person who definitely cares about her fellow man and reflexology is a gift she has shared with many

of us lucky enough to have found her. Submitted by Linda P., Farmingdale

On March 1st I went to try reflexology for current illnesses and because I was going to have TMJ surgery on March 6th. I was concerned

because of the othroscopic surgery on both sides that would be very uncomfortable. I went two times before the surgery and two times after

the surgery within a 10 day period. My surgery was essentially pain free and I was eating soft solids two days later and regular food the next

week. This was after several months of pain and not be able to open my mouth even 50% of the way. The TMJ pain is now gone.

Reflexology is also still being used for pain control for arthritis and fibromyalgia. With once a week treatments the pain is less and can be kept

to a tolerable level with tylenol rather than pain medication that can be habit forming. Back pain is less with reflexology used with chiropractic

care.

It would be true to say that I have found reflexology a useful tool that has shown positive results in the two months that I have been receiving

treatments. Submitted by Cathy F., Augusta

Going to a reflexologist was the best thing I have done for myself. I am a diabetic and have lost some of the nerves in my feet. My feet

were cold all the time and I was unable to separate my toes without doing it by hand. This frightened me. Since going to a reflexologist,

I can separate them without using my hands. And important to me, my legs and ankles have not swollen as badly as they did. Also,

prior to going , as I would go to bed my feet would burn and keep me from being able to go to sleep. Now, I lie down and am out; my

feet giving me no more notice than any other part of my body. It is going to take a while to recover completely, but it has taken even

longer to get in this condition and what an improvement has been made in only five sessions. The sessions provide a healthy and

emotional rebirth for me. Submitted by an anonymous sender


In 2002 I decided that reflexology would be beneficial & interesting. I was right again. I am still a client. Submitted by Skip J., Augusta

Monthly, for almost two years, I have been utilizing reflexology sessions for stress reduction and as part of an overall body preventative

maintenance practice. This past summer I tore many of the ligaments in my right ankle. Six weekly reflexology sessions helped my ankle heal

enough so that I could go on a hiking vacation in Canada. I am convinced that without these sessions, I would not have been able to hike for

many more months. Reflexology is a simple process that can be used with a variety of other health practices or by itself with positive results.

It has been valuable for me both for acute problems like my ankle or over the long term for stress management.

Submitted by Diane F., Augusta

I was referred to a reflexologist by a friend who had experienced dramatic results from his sessions. Having Raynaud’s Phenomena I am

extremely sensitive to cold. When cold, my fingers and toes change from pink to white to shades of deep purple. It is often painful. The

treatments stimulated blood circulation. Since my circulation is better I have fewer attacks.

I also have fibromyalgia which causes me to experience periods of extreme fatigue and pain. Reflexology also helps reduce stress which is a

major cause of FMS. By reducing stress the aches, pain, and fatigue has lessened. An extra from my visits has been the relief from a swollen

ankle. Doctors told me I have a bad valve in the back of my knee and to just live with it. The reflexologist noticed the swelling and believed I

had a clogged lymph gland in my groin. After 3 to 4 visits the ankle was back to normal. If I wait too long between visits (5 or more weeks),

the swelling comes back. Reflexology really helps me and I recommend it whenever I have the opportunity.

It all happened here at

Treat Your Feet, in Augusta

Myra Achorn

Submitted by Patti C., Dexter

To Our 68 + Members of MCR.

YOUARE INVITED TO CELEBRATE OUR

20TH ANNIVERSARY

Dinner will be fun!

20th Anniversary of the Maine Council of Reflexologists

Please come celebrate! May 14th

Just one time, wouldn’t it be fun to see all of us

REFLEXOLOGISTS in one place?

MAKE IT A DATE & DON’T BE LATE

20th year anniversarys only happen once.

Saturday 9:30am-4pm ~ Business meeting 10am-12:30pm ~ Afternoon program 1:30-4pm

You’re invited to stay after the meeting for

DINNER AT THE OLIVE GARDEN IN AUGUSTA

I hear there may be some singing talent among us. More will be posted at a later date.

If you can’t make the wonderful meeting planned, try to come to the dinner.

Directions: FROM THE SOUTH, take 295 to 95 or 95 to exit 112A to the Civic Center marquee on your right.

Turn right after the bank. Behind the bank is the Civic Center Inn and Rooster’s Restaurant. FROM THE

NORTH, take 95 to exit 112. At the light, turn left and stay to your right until you get to the Civic Center

marquee on your right. Turn right, after the bank. Behind the bank is the Civic Center Inn and Rooster’s

Restaurant. FROM AUGUSTA at the rotary follow the sign to Belgrade ~ Civic Center route 27 north.(4 lights)

The Civic Center marquee will be on your left, turn left. On your right behind the bank is the Civic Center Inn

and Rooster’s Restaurant.


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