City entrepreneur appears in the local press

New city start-up business Plym Reflexology appeared in the Plymouth Herald recently – following Nicola Marshall’s successful launch at the Wednesday Club recently.

Nicola’s new business is based in Plympton, and set up her venture after being made redundant after 28 years working in local government. The mother of two believes it ‘kick-started’ her ambition to realise her dream in working for herself.

“I feel reflexology has given me my children. With the help of the therapy I got through many health issues – it was the help I needed and then I started to learn more about it,” she said.

Reflexology is a therapy based around pressure points in the body. Nicola says every part of the body is represented by reflexes on the feet and as a therapist she stimulates those reflexes to ease congestion at the points which then helps the body to heal itself. If the feet cannot be worked on, the therapist can work on the hands instead.

She said her main motivation and love for the therapy is ‘helping others’.

“I see people walking down the street who look like they’re in pain and I sometimes grab their hands and use my finger and thumb pressure. I don’t like to see people suffering – I want to help people. Seeing the difference after a few treatment sessions is so rewarding.”

Nicola qualified with the International Institute of Reflexology over 16 years ago and has practised part-time ever since.

“It started out as a hobby but then I was made redundant – it was just the kick I needed. Now I have a thriving business,” she said. The experiences I had working in a stressful environment have given me the empathy to understand what others are experiencing. Some people might have tried everything before they come to me. It’s non-invasive and relaxing and uses no drugs. “Even if someone has nothing wrong with them they might still benefit from treatment.”

Nicola completed 12 months of reflexology training in London followed by a 12-month clinical medical course, advanced precision teaching as well as maternity reflexology. Nicola, aged 47, is from Elburton and her business is based in Falcon Road. She also offers Indian head massage. She was helped to set up her company by business start-up organisation Outset Plymouth.

“The team at Outset have been marvellous with help and support, but especially the PR, marketing and networking opportunities.”

Outset Plymouth is a £1 million programme funded by Plymouth City Council and the ERDF to help support people in self-employment opportunities.