If people tell you they feel energy when you touch them, consider a career in Reiki or reflexology. Reiki is an alternative treatment in which healing energy is moved from the practitioner to the client via natural energy portals called chakras. With similar benefits to Reiki, reflexology clears energy congestion, creating a freer energy flow through the body by applying pressure to points on the body called reflexes. Well-trained practitioners can often enhance their clients' well-being by reducing pain and symptoms of physical and emotional ailments, according to Pippa Howell, Reiki master teacher and reflexologist.
Finding the Right Reiki Teacher
Though no experience is required to begin Reiki training, Howell recommends having at least one personal Reiki session done before starting. Another Reiki master, Kathy, says that because no government regulation on Reiki training exists, you should do ample research on the various techniques and the masters who teach them. Currently, it may be difficult to find a master who teaches traditional Reiki, but many courses in the nontraditional technique are taught.
Reflexology Training
Opportunities for reflexologists are opening up at a rapid rate, according to the Association of Reflexologists Web site, and finding a quality reflexology training program is important to establishing a standard that clients and health care facilities want. Most schools either offer a diploma or certification; this depends on the location of the school and the government requirements of that state or country.
Reiki Training Cost
Reiki training is generally broken up into three sections: Reiki I, Reiki II and Reiki Master. The cost for Reiki I runs anywhere from $65 to $200. A second-degree course will set you back $100 to $500. Reiki master-teacher training is the most costly at $500 to $10,000. The wide range of pricing is primarily due to the teacher’s experience level and where the courses are offered, according to the Reiki Healing Path web site.
Time Frame for Reiki Training
Different master-teachers will offer anything from one-day workshops for the lower levels of study to lengthy apprenticeships for the master stage of training. Therefore, no actual set time frame for completing Reiki training exists. Students of the art are encouraged to move into the advanced courses only when they and their teacher feel they are ready.
Cost of Reflexology Training
As with Reiki training, reflexology training varies in cost. You can expect to pay $1,500 to $3,500 for basic courses that include hands-on work, course work and in some cases, home study. Additional costs may include equipment, such as a massage table, which runs from about $300 to $500.
Time Frame for Reflexology Training
Reflexology training usually takes a time investment of 150 to 300 hours. Each state or country may have varying requirements for either a diploma or certification.
Career Opportunities
A private alternative healing practice can be profitable, as well as other opportunities, such as employment with nursing homes, health care centers, health clubs, spas, cruise lines and even some medical doctors who are offering holistic therapies as complements to traditional Western medicine. Groups such as the Reflexology Association of America (RAA) offer information on finding jobs and/or starting a private practice. Market research, as completed by the RAA, provides helpful insight on what therapies health care facilities are incorporating into their practices.
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