In 2010, the United States Mint introduced a new coin, designed to commemorate the springs in Arkansas. This hot springs quarter was the first in a set of 56 coins specially designed to celebrate and educate about the vast number of natural marvels throughout the United States and territories. There’s some debate as to what actually even constitutes such a spring. One can find definitions as diverse as “any natural discharge of groundwater with higher than normal temperatures” to “a spring with water temperatures above 50 degrees Celcius.” Whatever the exact definition you subscribe to, however, two facts stand out: the springs are created when water is heated by geothermal energy, and a hot springs quarter could put a little bit of knowledge about them in your pocket.

The particular body of water this hot springs quarter is celebrating is in Arkansas, where about a million gallons of 137 degree water flows every day. This flow is unimpeded by changes in precipitation, as studies by the National Park Service indicate that water doesn’t reach the surface for some 6,000 years. The rainwater whence the spring flows filters very slowly through the earth’s surface and to superheated areas deep in its crust; it isn’t until it reaches this area that it gushes forth to the surface. While the surrounding city bills itself as “the countries first resort”, relatively few people are familiar with the majesty of the city’s 47 natural hot springs. This quarter should serve to expose many more people to the grandeur that is lurking in our own backyard.

Massage therapy schools in Arkansas are designed to provide necessary education and training in the art of natural healing. Aspiring massage therapists will learn vital knowledge and skills essential for the practice of massage in spas, health clubs, and athletic organizations, and hospitals and medical offices. Opportunities may include the study of various forms of Asian and Oriental massage as well as Western forms.

Typically, Arkansas massage schools will cover anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as medical language and massage therapy theory. Additional courses will provide students with customer service skills and knowledge for dealing with infection control, providing sports massage and CPR, and of medical law applicable to massage therapy.

Massage students have opportunities to learn about kinesiology, reflexology, ergonomics, weight control, and nutrition. They may also gain communications and business skills to prepare for managing and operating a private massage therapy clinic. If you decide to continue your natural healing education, some massage schools offer courses in other, more advanced studies, such as acupuncture or chiropractic, for instance.

Upon graduation, you will need to investigate the state rules and regulations for massage therapy businesses before beginning to practice. Your massage school will be happy to tell you about rules and regulations for education and examination required for massage therapy certification in the state of Arkansas. If your massage career takes you elsewhere, you will be wise to look into regional rules and regulations to be sure you can meet those requirements.

If you would like more information about Arkansas Massage Therapy Schools, or even Online Massage Therapy Schools, we invite you to search our website and learn more about this rewarding and exciting career in natural healing.