Reiki

What is Reiki?

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Reiki is known as a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.

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This energy healing technique was re-discovered by a Japanese Monk Dr. Mikao Usui who went on a life long mission to seek out the miracles of healing performed by Jesus Christ.

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The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words - Rei which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki which is "life force energy". So Reiki is actually "spiritually guided life force energy.

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In other Techniques this is referred to as Sekhem Scheichim by Ancient Egyptians, Tao Te Qi by Chinese, Prana by Indian philosophy,

 

There are Many Health Benefits of Reiki, here are 5 Health benefits of Reiki

1. Relieves pain, anxiety, and fatigue

According to a review of randomized trials Trusted Source, Reiki may help to reduce pain and anxiety, though more research is needed. It may also help to reduce fatigue.

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A 2015 study Trusted Source found that people being treated for cancer who received distant Reiki in addition to regular medical care had lower levels of pain, anxiety, and fatigue. These levels were significantly lower than those of the control group, who only received medical care. Participants had 30-minute sessions of distant Reiki for 5 days.

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In another 2015 study, researchers looked at the effects of Reiki on women following cesarean delivery. They found that Reiki significantly reduced pain, anxiety, and the breathing rate in women 1-2 days after having a cesarean delivery. The need for and number of analgesic painkillers was also reduced. Reiki didn’t affect blood pressure or pulse rate.

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A 2018 study Trusted Source compared the use of Reiki to physiotherapy for relieving lower back pain in people with herniated disks. Both treatments were equally effective at reducing pain, but Reiki was more cost-effective and, in some cases, resulted in faster treatment.

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2. Treats depression

Reiki treatments may be used as part of a treatment plan to help relieve depression. In a small 2010 study, researchers looked at the effects of Reiki on older adults experiencing pain, depression, or anxiety. The participants reported an improved mood and well-being. They also reported feelings of relaxation, increased curiosity, and enhanced levels of self-care.

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Larger, more in-depth studies are required to expand upon these findings.

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3. Enhances quality of life

The positive benefits of Reiki can enhance your overall well-being. Researchers in a small 2016 study found that Reiki helped improve the quality of life for women with cancer. Women who had Reiki showed improvements in their sleep patterns, self-confidence, and depression levels. They noted a sense of calm, inner peace, and relaxation.

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More extensive studies are needed to expand on these findings.

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4. Boosts mood

Reiki may help to improve your mood by relieving anxiety and depression. According to results from a 2011 study, people who had Reiki felt greater mood benefits compared to people who didn’t have Reiki. The study participants who had six 30-minute sessions over 2-8 weeks showed improvements in their mood.

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5. May improve some symptoms and conditions

 

Reiki may also be used to manage:

headaches
tension
insomnia
nausea

The relaxation response that happens with Reiki may benefit these symptoms. However, specific research is needed to determine the efficacy of Reiki for the treatment of these symptoms and conditions.

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What happens during a Reiki session?

A typical Reiki session lasts between 20 and 90 minutes. At your first appointment, you’ll meet with your Reiki practitioner. You’ll have a short introduction or chat about the process and your expectations.

Let your practitioner know about any symptoms you want to be addressed or if there are places in the body on which you’d like them to focus. Also, let the practitioner know if you have any injuries or areas that are sensitive to touch.

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You’ll be instructed to lie down on a treatment table or mat. They will cover you with a blanket. Usually, soft, relaxing music will be playing in the background. For the most part there won’t be, any talking during the session, but you can feel free to let your practitioner know if there’s something you need to feel more comfortable.

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The practitioner will move their hands around your body. They may touch you lightly or have their hands just above your body.

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You may experience sensations in the body such as heat or tingling. Some people report seeing visualizations such as colors or pictures or having memories appear. Try to allow whatever arises to pass without aching too much meaning to it. Your experiences may become more profound the more you continue with Reiki.

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How to prepare for your appointment?

Wear clean, loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. You may wish to wear natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk. Remove your shoes, jewelry, and glasses before your session, and keep your phone switched off or leave it behind.

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What to expect after your appointment

Drink plenty of water after your session. Some people feel calm, peaceful, or energized. You may also feel tired.