Short Nails and Clean Hands
Universal precautions cannot be overly discussed; learning how to care for your hands will keep you healthy and happy. First, let's talk about nails. It seems that everywhere one looks these days people have fancy, long nails. Red nails, pink nails, nails with squiggles on them, nails with little charms hanging off them, nails that are way too long! Imagine trying to hook into a reflex with nails the length of your little toe.
Reflexologists need to have well-manicured nails and hands. The nails must be short so you can perform your tasks without worry. Nails that are too long may scratch, pinch, or prick the receiver, which is not an effective technique. A reflexologist's hands are the tools of her trade, so she wants them to look good, neat, and clean. So say good-bye to long nails and concentrate on learning the moves to make you a great reflexologist.
Fact
Hand washing is an age-old concept. The old adage “cleanliness is next to godliness” could be used here since everything begins and ends with clean hands. Surely you can remember your mom always telling you to wash your hands — before dinner, after dinner, when you came in from play, work, or any activity, or any old time? There is a lot to be said for simple hand washing.
The best way to prevent transmission of germs is to have clean hands. After trimming the nails, wash your hands with warm water and soap and rinse with cool water. There are a variety of soaps to choose from: sweet-smelling soap made with essential oils; antibacterial soap; liquid, bar, or powder soap. The important point is to use the soap, along with warm water, in the hand-cleansing process.
Establish a pattern that becomes second nature during your treatment process. After asking the health questions, relax the chair into the reclining position; then excuse yourself to wash your hands. If you move from feet to hands during a session, wash your hands before the move. Upon completion of the session, wash your hands again.
