About Us
Calming influences was established in Southampton as a traditional holistic school in 2005, working with students in groups and also on an individual basis. Our first course was the Reflexology Diploma, and you can see us celebrating our accreditation with the AoR with our very first group of Reflexologists. We soon started offering a range of additional courses including aromatherapy. Today, we offer blended courses for qualified therapists, combining comprehensive online learning—complete with access to educational resources and instructional videos—with personalized assessments. These assessments are conducted either virtually via Zoom or in person at our treatment room in Bursledon, Southampton, ensuring tailored support throughout the learning process.
We are also happy to offer face-to-face courses at your venue for all of our courses, subject to minimum student numbers.
Our people
Dr Jackie James, DHealth Science, is the Principal and main tutor for Calming Influences.
Jackie has been a complementary therapist for over 25 years and has qualifications in reflexology, aromatherapy, massage, Indian head massage, Thai foot massage, and Ear candles. She has a wealth of experience working with students and clients, and has recently completed a Professional Doctorate in Health Studies at Portsmouth University, focussing on the quality of reflexology study intervention reporting.
Before changing careers to become a complementary therapist, Jackie worked in IT in corporates such as AT&T and IBM.
If you have any questions about any of the Calming Influences courses, or would like to chat about reflexology or complementary therapy research, please get in touch with Jackie@CalmingInfluences.com.
Paul has an IT background and designs, manages both our website and sites for other therapists, as well as managing our online learning platform.
He also manages the general administration and finance for the business.
In his spare time, Paul is a keen sailor.
Calming Influences is also supported by experienced tutors who provide student support. t support.