Reiki
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a form of complementary and alternative medicine therapy that uses energy from the practitioner’s hands to stimulate the patient’s inner healing responses. It was developed in Japan in the early 20th century by a man named Mikao Usui. He claimed to receive the ability of “healing without energy depletion” after weeks of meditating on a mountaintop.
Can Reiki help people with cancer?
Yes. Despite the lack of scientific evidence of its efficacy, many people with cancer who receive Reiki treatments report positive benefits in alleviating anxiety, stress, and pain. Many also report increased feelings of physical as well as psychological and spiritual well-being. Reiki can be easily learned and used by patients themselves or family members, which is part of its appeal.
Reiki alone is not a proven treatment for cancer, nor is it known to affect the biology of the disease or an individual’s outcome. It should not be used as a substitute for conventional care.
How does Reiki work?
Reiki uses energy believed to emanate from the practitioner’s hands to treat many different kinds of ailments; however, it is not simply a physiologic procedure. In fact, it is a highly spiritual modality and its effectiveness is regarded as being based on love and inner wisdom transmitted from the practitioner to the patient. Because it is a spiritual practice, Reiki is sometimes compared to faith healing or “laying on of hands.” Practitioners are trained to perform the technique and teach it to others. They hold their hands on, over, or near the patient’s clothed body, and may also make gestures in the air, which are believed to channel healing energy. Therapy sessions may last for an hour or more.
Reiki is a popular complementary healing modality, even though the conventional medical community does not acknowledge its effectiveness. Reiki may have a placebo effect for those people who believe in it, or it may have some mechanism of action that is not scientifically understood.
Certified Reiki practitioners receive training and certification at a variety of institutions throughout the United States. Some practitioners learn the technique from others and apply it informally. However, there is no formal government licensing procedure for Reiki practitioners in the United States. It is always wise to ask practitioners about their credentials and training before working with them.
Are there any risks or complications associated with Reiki?
No. Reiki is safe, and there are no known risks associated with it. However, as with other complementary therapies, consult your physician for more information.
How can I find a qualified Reiki practitioner?
It is important to select a practitioner who is qualified, experienced, and trustworthy. Click here to learn more about how to do this.