The uniform of a reflexologist may depend on her personal choice of dress or may be dictated by a regional or national organization or an employer. In general, the reflexology practitioner wants to appear professional, yet remain comfortable for the hands-on portion of a treatment.
Potential and new clients can appreciate a proficient-looking practitioner that is clean, well dressed and looks the part. As a representative of the profession as a whole the reflexologist’s wardrobe is a key player here.
Reflexology Smocks and Jackets
Popularized by reflexology organizations in Europe, it is not uncommon to encounter a European reflexologist in her practice wearing a white overcoat with her professional title embroidered on the chest. A reflexology student is sometimes given the smock at the end of her studies to set herself apart from other students in training.
For some reflexologists, though, this is too akin to a medical professional and could be misconstrued as a replacement for a doctor or nurse. In the U.S., an extra garment for a reflexologist might include a solid colored apron or scrub top to protect street clothes from being soiled by foot powder or cream.
Should Reflexologists Dress in Casual or Business Professional Attire?
This is an individually answered question based on the type of practice, location and expectations of clientele. Urban reflexologists in a blue collar area might put off their customers by dressing well above the locals. On the other hand, a practitioner working in a high end spa would also offend clients by showing up for work in sweats and a T-shirt.
For a more casual look, the reflexology practitioner might wear khaki slacks with a polo shirt or a nice button-down cotton shirt. "Business professional" on a reflexologist might mean a smart pair of dress trousers in a comfortable fabric and a dress shirt or blouse that will move easily along the shoulders and arms during a session.
The Seasonally Appropriate Reflexology Wardrobe
In cold weather, a cardigan or knit jacket can keep the practitioner warm without interfering in movement of the upper body while working on clients. Reflexologists are fortunate to not require exposed skin above the forearms like other manual bodyworkers and thus have a wider range of choices available to them.
Warmer climate areas and summertime presents a unique challenge to the reflexologist who is seated throughout a reflexology session. Skirts and shorts should fall at a comfortable length so as not to restrict the legs for grounding during a session. Both types of garments are available in a wide variety of cuts and fabrics so as to appeal to the wardrobe standards of the practice.
Reflexologists and Yoga Wear
A popular style of clothes amongst some reflexologists is the “yoga wear” look. The garments usually have flattering cuts and are available in comfortable, breathable fabric that makes it easy for the practitioner to move and work in.
Practitioners may wish to keep in mind that this type of wardrobe can give the impression that the reflexologist has just come from the gym or the yoga studio and that may be too casual for comfort.
Mix and Match Reflexology Wardrobes
No single look may be appropriate for every day of the work week but single garments can be paired up to create a coordinated outfit. For example: Monday through Thursday may be business casual while Friday is "denim day" and a smart pair of jeans is opposite a nice top. Another example might be the reflexologist with a variety of clientele ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics. The first group might warrant a more casual dress while the second a more formal dress.
Whatever the outfit of choice, the reflexologist should put her best foot forward for her practice and for her profession.
Sources:
- The authors firsthand experience in her own reflexology practice as well as meetings with Reflexologists from around the globe.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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